When the chill in the air calls for something warm and hearty, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup. This delightful dish boasts a symphony of flavors, featuring robust Italian sausage, rich tomato broth, and tender pasta shells. Not only does this soup offer comfort as you cozy up on the couch, but it also serves as a quick and satisfying meal that comes together in just 35 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, every spoonful envelops you in the warmth of home-cooked goodness.
The beauty of this Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up with pantry staples that you probably already have on hand, making it a convenient option for last-minute dinner plans. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple lunch, this soup is bound to please everyone sitting around the table. Plus, with the option to customize it to accommodate your spice preference or dietary needs, this dish quickly becomes a favorite recipe that you’ll want to revisit frequently!
Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests.
- Family-Friendly: With flavors that appeal to both kids and adults, it’s a recipe that everyone will enjoy.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the sausage and vitamins from the tomatoes and parsley.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimizes cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor.
- Customizable: Easily adjust spice levels or add your favorite vegetables for a personal touch.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before starting your cooking adventure with this delightful Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup, take a moment to prepare your kitchen and gather your tools. You will need a large pot or a Dutch oven to handle the simmering soup; these vessels ensure even cooking and can easily accommodate all ingredients. Additionally, have a wooden spoon handy for stirring, and some chopping tools for your onions and garlic.
Make sure to set up your workspace by clearing a countertop area for prep. Begin by peeking into your pantry and refrigerator to gather all the necessary ingredients: Italian sausage, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, pasta shells, heavy cream, and fresh parsley to brighten the dish. Having everything organized not only makes the cooking process smoother but also elevates your efficiency in the kitchen. Once you’ve set the stage, you can dive right into creating a heartwarming soup that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. This step not only caramelizes the sausage for added depth of flavor but also sets a hearty base for your soup. Once browned, carefully remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside; this allows the remaining flavors to meld without overcooking the meat.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same pot, you may add a splash of olive oil if needed. Now, introduce the diced yellow onion and sauté for approximately 4–5 minutes until it becomes translucent. At this point, the aroma begins to fill your kitchen! Add minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds until it releases its fragrant oils—this will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes, complete with their juices, followed by the chicken broth. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle boil. The tomatoes provide acidity and sweetness, while the chicken broth acts as the essential liquid for your soup. Bring the heat up until it boils, which creates the perfect environment for the flavors to permeate each other.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once boiling, it’s time to stir in the small pasta shells. Reduce the heat to a simmer, letting the pasta cook until it reaches an al dente texture, approximately 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking and ensure every bite is delightfully tender.
Step 5: Incorporate the Sausage
After the pasta has reached the preferred doneness, return the browned sausage to the pot. Allow everything to continue simmering for another 5 minutes. This gives time for the flavors to combine beautifully, and you’ll start to see the soup come together as a cohesive dish.
Step 6: Add Cream and Season
Lower the heat slightly before stirring in the heavy cream, which helps to achieve a creamy texture that enriches the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting based on your preference. The cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes while adding a luxurious mouthfeel, turning your soup into a comforting delight.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serve
Once all these components have married in the pot, turn off the heat and allow the soup to rest for a few minutes. This resting phase thickens the soup slightly, allowing you to serve it piping hot. When ready, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired, to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Variations
- Protein: Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or incorporate veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost or throw in some frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor with crushed red pepper flakes for heat or Italian seasoning for added depth.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure you keep an eye on the pasta; you want it perfectly al dente before adding other ingredients. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in the soup.
- Feel free to make this ahead of time. This soup tastes even better on the second day as the flavors meld further.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious broth and provide texture contrast.
- Pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a complete meal.
Tips
- Keep some grated Parmesan on the table for those who love an extra cheesy touch!
- If making this soup in larger batches, consider freezing leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 16g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the sausage with a combination of beans, lentils, or assorted vegetables to maintain a hearty texture while avoiding meat.
How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
Stored properly in an airtight container, Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup remains fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Make sure to leave space in the container for expansion and consume within 2-3 months for best quality.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, cheese toast, or a light salad are all fantastic accompaniments to enhance your dining experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup is the perfect dish to warm your heart and satisfy your craving for comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and filled with robust flavors that will leave you and your family going back for seconds. The creamy texture paired with the delightful zing of tomatoes and savory sausage creates a symphony of taste in every bowl. Don’t hesitate to get creative with the variations and serving suggestions. I encourage you to share your feedback, modifications, or experiences in the comments below! Happy cooking!
Print
Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This delightful dish boasts a symphony of flavors, featuring robust Italian sausage, rich tomato broth, and tender pasta shells.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes.
- In the same pot, you may add a splash of olive oil if needed. Now, introduce the diced yellow onion and sauté for approximately 4–5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds.
- Next, pour in the can of diced tomatoes, complete with their juices, followed by the chicken broth. Stir the mixture well, allowing it to come to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the small pasta shells. Reduce the heat to a simmer, letting the pasta cook until it reaches an al dente texture, approximately 8–10 minutes.
- After the pasta has reached the preferred doneness, return the browned sausage to the pot and allow everything to continue simmering for another 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat slightly before stirring in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once all these components have married in the pot, turn off the heat and allow the soup to rest for a few minutes.
Notes
This soup tastes even better on the second day as the flavors meld further.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 16 g