Description
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach and Tomatoes
A cozy and flavorful soup loaded with sausage, veggies, and a creamy base—perfect for warming up any day!
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Cook the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics:
In the same pot, sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, and cooked sausage. Season with oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra pepper, and serve with a slice of crusty bread.
This creamy sausage soup is a delightful balance of rich, savory flavors and fresh ingredients—perfect for a comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed guide. First, ensure your sausage is removed from its casing if purchased in links. Use a wooden spoon to break it into bite-sized crumbles as it browns. After removing the sausage, add a bit more oil if the pot is dry before sautéing the onions. When adding the garlic, stir constantly for just 30-60 seconds to prevent burning. For the tomatoes, let them cook until their skins begin to wrinkle and they release their juices, which builds a deeper flavor base. When simmering the final soup, keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling; a gentle bubble is perfect.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal on its own, but perfect pairings elevate it. Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread or a side of focaccia for dipping. For a lighter option, pair with a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. For extra richness, add a dollop of ricotta or mascarpone cheese just before serving.
How-to Summary
In summary, brown crumbled Italian sausage and set aside. Sauté onion and garlic in the same pot. Add tomatoes, then chicken broth, and simmer. Return sausage to the pot, stir in heavy cream and fresh spinach, and season with oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until spinach is wilted and soup is heated through. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a lighter alternative to heavy cream? Yes, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. Avoid boiling if using milk to prevent separation.
How can I make this soup spicier? Use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes to 1/2 teaspoon. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper is another effective option.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time? You can prepare the base (sausage, aromatics, tomatoes, broth) ahead. Add the cream and spinach only when reheating to preserve their texture and color.
Can I freeze this soup? Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content, which can separate and become grainy upon thawing and reheating.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach? Chopped kale or Swiss chard are excellent, sturdy alternatives. Add them a few minutes earlier to ensure they become tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best soup. Do not rush the browning of the sausage; proper caramelization builds foundational flavor. Do not burn the garlic, as it becomes bitter quickly. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream, as high heat can cause curdling. Do not overcook the spinach; add it last and simmer just until wilted. Finally, do not skip seasoning in layers; taste and adjust salt and pepper after adding the broth and again after adding the cream.
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is the epitome of comfort food, masterfully combining savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and a luxurious creamy broth. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers restaurant-quality depth of flavor. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common errors and customize it to your taste. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this versatile soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of every spoonful.