Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Sausage Minestrone Soup is a robust, Italian-inspired dish packed with vegetables, beans, pasta, and flavorful sausage. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s comforting, hearty, and perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a nourishing meal. This soup is easy to customize and comes together quickly, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

ingredients

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

Italian sausage (mild or spicy)olive oilonion (chopped)garlic (minced)carrots (sliced)celery (sliced)zucchini (diced)crushed tomatoes (canned)tomato pastechicken or vegetable brothed beans (cannellini or kidney)green beans (fresh or frozen)dried oreganoItalian seasoningbay leafsalt and pepperpasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow)spinach or kale (optional)parmesan cheese (for serving)fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove excess grease if needed.

Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Stir in the zucchini and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken or vegetable broth, beans, green beans, oregano, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes.

Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Stir in spinach or kale at the end, letting it wilt in the hot soup.

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Ladle into bowls and top with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 35 minutesTotal time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Add potatoes or corn for extra heartiness.

Swap the pasta for rice or omit for a low-carb option.

Use vegetable broth and skip the sausage for a vegetarian version.

Top with a dollop of pesto for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed as the pasta may absorb liquid over time.For freezing, omit the pasta and add it fresh when reheating. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I use canned beans?

Yes, canned beans work perfectly—just rinse and drain them before adding.

What kind of sausage is best?

Italian sausage (sweet or spicy) adds the most flavor, but any ground sausage will work.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage and sauté veggies first, then cook everything (except pasta and greens) on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

Is this soup spicy?

It depends on the sausage. Use mild sausage for less heat or spicy for a kick.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta or serve without pasta entirely.

What can I use instead of zucchini?

Yellow squash, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great alternatives.

Can I prep this ahead?

Absolutely—make the soup without pasta and refrigerate. Reheat and add pasta just before serving.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, but freeze without pasta for best texture when reheating.

What type of pasta should I use?

Small pasta like ditalini, elbows, or shells work best for easy eating.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Yes, add chopped fresh basil or parsley at the end for bright flavor.

Conclusion

Sausage Minestrone Soup is the ultimate bowl of comfort—rich in flavor, loaded with nutrition, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning meals for the week, this hearty soup is a satisfying and simple choice that warms you from the inside out. Give it a try and watch it become a regular in your kitchen lineup.