Creamy Italian Pasta Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe ๐Ÿฒ๐Ÿ

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 This Creamy Italian Pasta Soup with Sausage and Spinach combines the hearty flavors of Italian sausage, tender pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy broth. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for cozy evenings or when you crave a satisfying one-pot meal.

Ingredients

For the Base:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Soup:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Add-Ins:

  • 1 1/2 cups small pasta (like ditalini, shells, or rotini)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (lightly packed)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
  • Crusty bread for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up into small crumbles with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
  3. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Step 2: Sautรฉ the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sautรฉ for 3–5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
  2. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to medium.
  2. Add the pasta and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Cream and Spinach

  1. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream.
  2. Add the spinach and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Return the Sausage

  1. Stir the cooked sausage back into the soup. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
  2. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Pasta Soup

  1. Choose the Right Pasta: Small pasta shapes work best as they hold up well in soups without overpowering the other ingredients.
  2. Add Spinach at the End: This preserves its bright green color and fresh flavor.
  3. Control the Creaminess: Use more or less cream depending on your preference. For a lighter version, swap cream with whole milk or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
  4. Freezer Tip: If you plan to freeze leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to avoid sogginess.

Why You’ll Love It

This Creamy Italian Pasta Soup is:

  • Rich and Comforting: The creamy broth paired with hearty sausage and pasta is incredibly satisfying.
  • Bursting with Flavor: Italian herbs and sausage bring a bold and savory depth.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal prep.
  • Perfectly Balanced: Creamy, cheesy, and packed with fresh spinach for a touch of brightness.
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