Name: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage; 1 cup short pasta; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; 1 cup baby spinach; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

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Table of Contents: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

WINTER COMFORT: Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup – The Ultimate Cozy Meal

Remember those chilly evenings, the scent of something delicious simmering on the stove, and the warmth spreading through your family as you gathered around the table? This Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup is designed to recapture that feeling. It’s a hug in a bowl, a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for chasing away the winter blues.

If you’re looking for easy winter soup recipes that deliver big on flavor, look no further.

This isn’t just any soup; it’s a complete meal, packed with hearty sausage, tender pasta, and a medley of flavorful vegetables, all swimming in a luxuriously creamy broth. It’s the kind of recipe that’s been passed down through generations, tweaked and perfected to become a true family favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, seeking a comforting pasta and sausage soup for a family dinner, or simply need a quick and easy weeknight meal, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are truly spectacular.

Forget complicated recipes and hours spent in the kitchen. This creamy sausage soup is all about maximizing flavor with minimal effort.

It’s a dish that welcomes you home, offering a sense of warmth and nourishment that’s especially welcome during the colder months. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a perfect pot of soup every time.

Alternate Names & Variations

This recipe goes by many names! You might also find it called Sausage Tortellini Soup, Italian Sausage Soup with Pasta, or simply Hearty Sausage and Pasta Soup. It’s a versatile base, too. Feel free to swap out the pasta shape for your favorite – ditalini, orzo, or even small shells work beautifully. For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage.

And if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of cream or use a lower-fat alternative. This is a great starting point for creating your own signature creamy sausage soup!

Ingredients: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting masterpiece:

* 1 pound Italian Sausage (sweet or hot, your preference)

* 1 cup Pasta (small shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or rotini work best)
* 1 medium Onion, chopped
* 2 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 stalks Celery, diced
* 8 cups Broth (chicken or vegetable – low sodium recommended)
* 1 cup Heavy Cream (or full-fat coconut cream for a dairy-free option)

* 2 teaspoons Dried Thyme
* 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
* Salt and Black Pepper to taste
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* Optional Garnish: Fresh Parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, a swirl of cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casing (if applicable) and crumble it into the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease. Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the sausage. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Shortcut: Use pre-cut vegetables to save time!

3. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the dried thyme and oregano. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Important: We’ll address how to avoid mushy pasta later!

5. Stir in the Cream: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream (or coconut cream). Heat through gently, but do not boil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Chef’s Tip: Add the cream slowly, stirring constantly to prevent it from curdling.

6. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the creamy sausage pasta soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a swirl of cream, if desired. Enjoy immediately!

Recipe Card Block (Quick Reference)

This recipe takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, for a total time of 50 minutes. It yields about 4 generous servings. Approximate calories per serving are around 450-550, depending on the type of sausage and cream used.

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This creamy sausage pasta soup works because it builds flavor in layers. Browning the sausage first creates a rich, savory base. Sautéing the vegetables softens them and releases their natural sweetness. The herbs add depth and complexity, while the cream provides a luxurious texture. It’s truly easy comfort food for family dinners!

The key to a perfect soup is balance. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors. For a heartier soup, add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or a handful of chopped spinach during the last few minutes of cooking. This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to get creative!

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Leftover pasta and sausage soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup, but keep in mind that the pasta may become slightly softer upon thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

To reheat, simply thaw the soup (if frozen) and heat it gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the cream to separate. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out.

People Also Ask: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

What kind of sausage is good for soup?

Italian sausage is the classic choice for this creamy sausage soup, and you can choose between sweet or hot depending on your preference. Sweet Italian sausage provides a mild, savory flavor, while hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick. Beyond Italian sausage, you could also use Polish kielbasa, andouille sausage (for a Cajun-inspired twist), or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.

The key is to choose a sausage that has a good amount of flavor and will hold its shape during cooking. Remember to remove the sausage from its casing before browning for a more crumbly texture in the soup.

How do you make a soup creamy?

There are several ways to make a soup creamy! The most common method, as used in this creamy sausage soup recipe, is to stir in heavy cream at the end of cooking. However, you can also use other ingredients like coconut milk (for a dairy-free option), blended potatoes or cauliflower, or even a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to thicken and create a creamy texture.

Another technique is to use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, creating a velvety consistency. Just be careful not to over-blend, or the soup may become too thick.

Can you cook pasta directly in soup?

Yes, you absolutely can cook pasta directly in the soup! This is a convenient way to save time and allows the pasta to absorb some of the delicious flavors from the broth. However, it’s important to be mindful of the cooking time and avoid overcooking the pasta.

We recommend adding the pasta during the last 8-10 minutes of simmering, or until it’s al dente. This method is perfect for smaller pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.

How do you keep pasta from getting mushy in soup?

The biggest secret to preventing mushy pasta in soup is to under cook it slightly before adding it to the soup. The pasta will continue to cook in the hot broth, so you want it to be al dente – firm to the bite – when you add it.

Also, avoid simmering the soup for too long after adding the pasta. Once the pasta is cooked, remove the soup from the heat and serve immediately. If you’re making the soup ahead of time, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to individual bowls just before serving.

Conclusion: Winter Comfort Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup

So there you have it – a truly comforting and satisfying Creamy Sausage Pasta Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. We hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the warmth and flavor for yourself. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create a soup that’s uniquely your own.

We’d love to hear about your creations! Share your photos and comments below, and let us know how it turned out. Happy cooking!