Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup
Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Kitchen
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for cozy dinners.
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you need something warm and comforting. Packed with flavor from Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and herbs, it's a dish that your family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings
- Easy to prepare, just set it and forget it
- Loaded with vegetables for a nutritious boost
- Rich and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy
A Comforting One-Pot Meal
There's something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a cold day. This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. By using a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together while you go about your day. The result is a rich, savory soup that's perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.
With every spoonful, you'll enjoy the hearty combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. This soup is a wonderful way to warm the soul and satisfy your cravings all at once. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritional Benefits
One of the standout features of this Italian Sausage Soup is its nutritional profile. Packed with colorful vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers, this dish not only delights the taste buds but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of spinach at the end boosts the nutritional value even further, adding iron and fiber to the mix.
Moreover, using Italian sausage adds a depth of flavor while providing a good source of protein. By controlling the ingredients in your soup, you can tailor it to fit dietary preferences, whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option or simply want to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. This soup is a balanced meal in a bowl!
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is its versatility. While the recipe provides a delicious base, you can easily modify it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Consider adding different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or even swapping the sausage for a turkey or plant-based version to cater to your dietary needs.
Additionally, this soup can be served with a variety of toppings. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish even further. You can also pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Mix well to combine all ingredients before cooking.
Instructions
Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Combine Ingredients
In the slow cooker, add the browned sausage, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cook the Soup
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
Add Spinach
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty soup!
Garnish with grated Parmesan if desired.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep or for those busy weeknights when you want a quick and easy dinner option. Just make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to the fridge to maintain its freshness.
When it comes to reheating, you can easily warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoying this delicious soup the next day is just as delightful as the first!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this Italian Sausage Soup with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The combination of flavors will make for a satisfying meal that everyone will love. You might also want to offer some grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley on the side for guests to customize their bowls.
For a more substantial meal, serve the soup over a bed of cooked pasta or rice. This adds an extra layer of heartiness and makes the dish even more filling, perfect for those who need a bit more to satisfy their hunger.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. The soup freezes wonderfully, so you can make a large batch and store it in individual portions. This way, you'll always have a quick meal ready to go when you need it. Just thaw and reheat, and you'll have a comforting meal in minutes.
Additionally, since this recipe is packed with nutritious ingredients, it's a great way to ensure you're eating healthy throughout the week. Whether you’re busy with work, school, or family commitments, having this soup on hand can help you stick to your healthy eating goals without sacrificing flavor.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, turkey sausage works well for a lighter option.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it great for meal prep.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the sausage and broth are gluten-free.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for cozy dinners.
Created by: Sandra
Recipe Type: Rustic Comfort Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
How-To Steps
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
In the slow cooker, add the browned sausage, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.
About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted.
Serve hot, and enjoy your hearty soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 740mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g