Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that I find myself returning to time and again, especially on chilly evenings or busy weeknights. The rich, brothy goodness combined with the kick of spicy sausage makes it a favorite in my home. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings—everyone loves a comforting bowl of soup!

What I adore most about this soup is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this recipe will not disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and filling: With the addition of gnocchi and beans, this soup will keep you satisfied for hours.
• Easy to prepare: You can whip this up in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the veggies or spices based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage is a breeze with these simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather them up and let’s get cooking!

For the Soup

• 1 (16 ounce) package gnocchi (optional)
• Olive or avocado oil
• 2 links spicy Italian sausage, casings removed and crumbled
• 2 leeks (white part only), washed, halved, and sliced thinly
• 1 fennel bulb, quartered, core removed, and sliced thinly
• 1 large parsnip, peeled and diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1 rib celery, diced
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic, pressed through garlic press
• 1 (28 ounce) can whole tomatoes, drained of juice and roughly chopped into large chunks
• 1 (15 ounce) can navy beans, drained and rinsed
• 6 cups chicken stock/broth
• 1 cup chopped kale
• 1 tablespoon chopped Italian flat-leaf parsley
• Squeeze of lemon (about 1 teaspoon)
• Shaved or grated parmesan cheese as garnish, if desired

Variations

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: If spicy sausage isn’t your thing or you want a lighter option, try using turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage!
• Add more greens: Toss in some spinach or Swiss chard for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Change up the beans: Black beans or chickpeas work wonderfully if navy beans aren’t available.
• Spice it up: For those who love heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking.

How to Make Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

If you’re using gnocchi in your soup, start by cooking them according to the package instructions. This step ensures they are perfectly tender when added to your delicious broth later. Set them aside while you make the soup base!

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Place a large soup pot over medium-high heat and drizzle in about 2 tablespoons of oil. When hot, crumble in the spicy Italian sausage. Browning the sausage adds depth to your soup with its savory flavors. Let it cook for a few minutes until nicely browned.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add in the leeks, fennel, parsnip, carrot, and celery—your kitchen will smell amazing! Stir everything together while adding a pinch of salt and pepper along with Italian seasoning. Sautéing until tender releases all those lovely vegetable flavors that make this soup special.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomatoes

Once your veggies are tender and fragrant from sautéing, stir in the garlic until aromatic. Then add in those chopped tomatoes along with navy beans for protein. Pour in chicken stock/broth next; this creates that beautiful broth we all love in soups!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover your pot and let everything simmer for about 20 minutes until all vegetables are beautifully tender. After turning off the heat, stir in kale and parsley along with a squeeze of lemon juice—this brightens up all those rich flavors! Don’t forget to taste; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve It Up

To serve, add a small amount of cooked gnocchi into each bowl before ladling that steaming hot soup over top. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness while a sprinkle of parmesan cheese offers that classic finish! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Creating a delicious Italian vegetable soup is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup. Whenever possible, choose seasonal produce for the best taste.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer your soup spicier, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or swapping in a hotter sausage variety. This allows you to customize the heat to your liking!

• Let it simmer longer: If time permits, allow the soup to simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes. This deepens the flavors and makes for an even richer broth.

• Don’t skip the lemon: A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the soup and balances the richness of the sausage. It’s a simple yet impactful addition!

• Store leftovers properly: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier upon reheating!

How to Serve Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage

Serving your Italian vegetable soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil or parsley: Chopped fresh herbs add color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and a touch of elegance to each bowl.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges alongside allows guests to add more brightness according to their preference.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up all that delicious broth.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Garlic knots: Soft, buttery garlic knots are an irresistible side that complements the flavors of your soup beautifully.
• Grated parmesan cheese: While optional, offering freshly grated parmesan allows everyone to customize their bowls with a savory finish!

Enjoy these serving suggestions as you share this comforting Italian vegetable soup with spicy sausage with loved ones! Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it also stores well, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• To maintain the best flavor and texture, store the gnocchi separately from the soup.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• If using leftover gnocchi, warm them separately and add them just before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of sausage in the Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative if you prefer a different flavor or dietary option.

What vegetables can I add to my Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage?

You can customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. Just chop them into small pieces and add them during the cooking process!

How do I know when my soup is done cooking?

The soup should simmer for about 20 minutes or until all vegetables are tender. You can also taste it to check for seasoning and texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this comforting Italian Vegetable Soup with Spicy Sausage! It’s not only hearty and full of flavor but also adaptable to your tastes. Enjoy making this delicious dish that warms both body and soul—your loved ones will surely appreciate it! Happy cooking!