Sausage Minestrone Soup Recipe

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a hearty, rustic twist on the classic Italian vegetable soup. This version includes savory sausage, tender pasta, and a medley of colorful vegetables simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this one-pot meal is perfect for chilly days, meal prep, or feeding a hungry crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is comfort food at its best—wholesome, warming, and incredibly flavorful. The sausage adds richness and depth, while the beans and veggies provide texture and nutrition. It’s an easy way to use pantry staples and leftover ingredients, and it’s endlessly adaptable. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy weeks.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Zucchini
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato paste
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Cannellini beans (or red kidney beans)
• Green beans (fresh or frozen)
• Pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow)
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Bay leaf
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then add diced tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Return sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
5. Add zucchini, green beans, and pasta. Cook for 10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.
6. Stir in beans and spinach (if using), and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and greens are wilted.
7. Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan on top.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Make it vegetarian: Skip the sausage and add extra beans or plant-based sausage.
• Swap the pasta: Use whole wheat, gluten-free, or legume-based pasta.
• Use different sausage: Try turkey sausage or chorizo for a different flavor profile.
• Add heat: Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra kick.
• Change the greens: Kale, Swiss chard, or collard greens can replace spinach.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens after storage.

FAQs

What kind of sausage should I use?

Italian sausage (mild or spicy) is ideal, but you can use any sausage you like.

Can I use canned beans?

Yes, canned beans are convenient and perfect for this recipe—just drain and rinse before adding.

Is this soup spicy?

It can be if you use spicy sausage. For a milder version, stick to sweet or mild sausage.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely. Frozen green beans, zucchini, or spinach work great in this soup.

What pasta shape works best?

Small pasta like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are best for even cooking and easy eating.

Can I cook the pasta separately?

Yes, especially if you plan to store the soup. This helps prevent the pasta from getting too soft.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the sausage and sauté the veggies first, then cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

How do I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer longer or mash some of the beans for a thicker texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad make great sides.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe is easy to scale up for meal prep or a large group.

Conclusion

Sausage Minestrone Soup is the perfect mix of comfort and nutrition, with layers of savory flavor in every spoonful. It’s simple to make, flexible with ingredients, and hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals for the week, this satisfying soup is sure to hit the spot.

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