Name: Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided; 12 oz. smoked turkey kielbasa sausage (quartered through the length then sliced); 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 medium); 1 cup diced carrots (2 medium); 1 cup diced celery (2 stalks); 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow bell pepper (1 medium); 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (4 cloves); 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes; 1 1/2 cups 1/2-inch diced russet or red potatoes (peel if using russet); 1 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 cup diced zucchini (1 small); 2 cups chopped spinach; 2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley; Finely shredded parmesan, for serving (optional)

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Table of Contents: Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup

Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup

As the days get shorter and a chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting soup to lift your spirits. This Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup is a family favorite, brimming with savory sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth.

It’s the kind of comfort food that reminds you of home, and it’s surprisingly easy to make – perfect for a relaxed evening or when you have loved ones gathered around the table. Forget complicated recipes; this one delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a hug in a bowl. We’ve all got busy lives, and sometimes a quick, nourishing meal is exactly what’s needed. That’s where this Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup shines. It’s a hearty soup that will fill you up without weighing you down, and it’s packed with goodness.

Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a simple easy dinner after a long day, or a warming dish to share during the holidays, this recipe is a winner. It’s also incredibly versatile – feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables!

This recipe is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create something truly special. It’s a dish that’s been passed down through generations, tweaked and perfected along the way. And now, we’re sharing it with you, hoping it will become a cherished part of your family’s traditions too.

Alternate Names & Variations

You might also find recipes for this delicious soup called “Kielbasa Vegetable Soup,” “Sausage and Cabbage Soup” (if you add cabbage!), or simply “Hearty Vegetable Soup with Smoked Sausage.” The beauty of this recipe is its adaptability. For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using a hot smoked sausage. If you’re looking for a hearty soup with a different grain, you can add a half cup of barley or rice during the simmering process.

Ingredients: Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup

* 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
* 12 oz. smoked turkey kielbasa sausage, quartered through the length then sliced
* 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (1 medium)
* 1 cup diced carrots (2 medium)
* 1 cup diced celery (2 stalks)
* 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow bell pepper (1 medium)
* 1 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (4 cloves)
* 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
* 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
* 1 1/2 cups 1/2-inch diced russet or red potatoes (peel if using russet)

* 1 Tbsp dried Italian seasoning
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper
* 1 cup diced zucchini (1 small)
* 2 cups chopped spinach
* 2 Tbsp minced fresh parsley
* Finely shredded parmesan, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften. Chef’s Tip: Don’t rush this step! Building a good base of flavor is key to a delicious soup.

2. Brown the Sausage: Add the sliced smoked turkey kielbasa to the pot and cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. This will release some of the sausage’s flavorful oils into the vegetables.

3. Add Garlic & Bell Pepper: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped yellow bell pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes more, until fragrant. Shortcut: Use pre-minced garlic to save time!

4. Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and diced potatoes. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. How long does this soup need to simmer? The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together, but 15-20 minutes is a good starting point.

5. Add Zucchini: Stir in the diced zucchini and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender-crisp.

6. Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.

7. Finish & Serve: Stir in the minced fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with finely shredded parmesan cheese, if desired.

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, for a total time of 45 minutes. It yields about 4 servings. The approximate calorie count per serving is around 350-400, depending on the type of sausage and amount of parmesan used. This is a wonderfully filling and nutritious meal, perfect for a chilly evening.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup works because of the layering of flavors. Starting with the aromatic vegetables (onion, carrot, celery) creates a savory foundation. Browning the sausage adds depth and richness, while the Italian seasoning and chicken broth tie everything together. The addition of zucchini and spinach at the end ensures a fresh, vibrant finish.

For an easy comfort food for family dinners, this soup is hard to beat. It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables. Don’t be afraid to experiment! What kind of smoked sausage is best for soup? Smoked turkey kielbasa is a lighter option, but you can use any smoked sausage you prefer – pork, beef, or even andouille for a spicier flavor. Just be mindful of the salt content, as some smoked sausages can be quite salty. Adjust the amount of salt you add to the soup accordingly.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, the soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, simply thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and then heat it through on the stovetop or in the microwave. Tip: The potatoes may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing, but the overall flavor and texture will still be excellent. This makes it a great option for meal prepping and having a quick and easy dinner ready to go.

Conclusion: Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup

So there you have it – a classic Smoked Sausage and Vegetable Soup recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly easy dinner that the whole family will love. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize it with your favorite vegetables or a dash of spice.

We’d love to hear how your soup turns out! Please share your photos and comments below. Happy cooking!