Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup
Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any chilly day. Packed with savory Italian sausage, vegetables, and spices, it's an easy meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day.
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup has been a family favorite for years. The combination of spicy sausage, fresh vegetables, and rich broth creates a satisfying meal that's perfect for warming up on a cold day. Plus, it's incredibly easy to make!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavor that warms the soul
- Easy preparation with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd
The Comfort of Italian Flavors
Italian cuisine is renowned for its ability to bring warmth and comfort to the dinner table. This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup embodies those qualities beautifully. The combination of flavorful Italian sausage with fresh vegetables creates a hearty meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul. Each spoonful is packed with rich flavors, making it perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
The aromatic spices, such as oregano and basil, infuse the broth with a delightful essence reminiscent of traditional Italian kitchens. This dish not only nourishes but also evokes memories of family dinners and shared moments, making it a beloved addition to any recipe collection.
Easy Preparation for Busy Days
One of the greatest advantages of this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is its simplicity. With just a few steps, you can set it and forget it, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly while you attend to your day. The preparation involves browning the sausage and chopping some vegetables, making it an accessible recipe for even the busiest home cooks.
The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, so you can return home to a deliciously aromatic kitchen and a meal that’s ready to serve. This is especially beneficial for busy families or those looking to streamline their meal prep for the week.
Versatile and Adaptable
This soup is highly versatile, allowing for various adaptations based on your personal preferences or dietary needs. You can easily swap out the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance the nutritional profile and flavor.
For those seeking a vegetarian version, simply replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth. This adaptability makes the soup a fantastic choice for gatherings, catering to diverse dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Enjoy this soup with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.
Add Vegetables
Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the slow cooker with the sausage.
Combine Ingredients
Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite bread.
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes well for later use.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers from this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can also freeze portions for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy this hearty dish even on your busiest days.
To reheat, simply warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick and convenient meal.
Pairing Suggestions
While this Italian sausage soup is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
For a complete meal, you might also serve it alongside a cheese platter or appetizers like bruschetta. These pairings not only complement the soup but also create a well-rounded dining experience that will impress your family and friends.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and replace it with beans for protein. Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
→ Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sausage and broth.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any chilly day. Packed with savory Italian sausage, vegetables, and spices, it's an easy meal that simmers to perfection while you go about your day.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Cozy Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon 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 and transfer to the slow cooker.
Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the slow cooker with the sausage.
Pour in the canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach.
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite bread.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g