Cozy Italian Sausage, Zucchini & Tomato Soup Recipe

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when crafting this hearty zucchini and tomato italian sausage soup that delivers robust Mediterranean flavors.

Fragrant herbs and tender vegetables dance together in a rich, comforting broth.

Rustic ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a meal that warms you from the inside out.

Sautéed italian sausage provides deep, savory notes while zucchini adds delicate texture and freshness.

Ripe tomatoes contribute a subtle sweetness that balances the entire dish perfectly.

Each spoonful tells a story of traditional cooking techniques passed through generations.

I promise this soup will become your new cold-weather companion, inviting you to savor every delicious moment.

Instructions for Cooking This Cozy Soup

Step 1: Sizzle The Sausage

Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Chop And Prep Veggies

• Zucchini
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots

Dice all vegetables into bite-sized pieces, ensuring uniform cuts for even cooking.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Vegetables

Toss chopped onions, garlic, and carrots into the pot with browned sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften and release their fragrant oils.

Step 4: Pour In Liquid Magic

• Chicken broth
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce

Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir ingredients together, creating a rich, flavorful base for the soup.

Step 5: Season And Simmer

• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper

Stir seasonings throughout the soup. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Zucchini Finale

Introduce diced zucchini into the simmering soup. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until zucchini is tender but still maintains a slight crunch.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

• Fresh basil
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Top with fresh basil or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of deliciousness. Serve immediately with crusty bread.

Flavor Tips for a Great Sausage Soup

• Choose the Right Sausage: Select sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference, removing casings for better texture and even cooking.
• Control Fat Content: Drain excess grease after browning sausage to keep the soup lighter and prevent an overly greasy consistency.
• Maximize Vegetable Freshness: Use firm, ripe zucchini and garden-fresh tomatoes for the most vibrant flavor and best nutritional value.
• Adjust Soup Thickness: Add extra broth if the soup becomes too thick, or simmer uncovered to reduce and concentrate flavors as desired.
• Enhance Flavor Depth: Consider adding a splash of red wine or herbs like basil and oregano to elevate the soup's traditional Italian taste profile.

Storing and Reheating Tips for This Soup

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping it fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring you remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Pour soup into a pot, warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup seems too thick, helping restore its original consistency.
• Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed and steaming.

Pairing Suggestions for Tomato Sausage Soup

• A robust Chianti or Sangiovese complements the rich, savory flavors of the Italian sausage and tomatoes, cutting through the soup's richness with its acidic notes.
• Serve a crusty ciabatta or focaccia alongside the soup, perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth and adding a delightful textural contrast.
• Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top to brighten the soup's deep flavors and add a vibrant, aromatic finish.
• Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to provide a refreshing counterpoint to the soup's hearty and warming character.

Fun Add-Ins for Sausage Soup

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or crumbled firm tofu seasoned with Italian herbs and fennel seeds for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free Italian sausage and ensure all broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute zucchini with cauliflower chunks and reduce overall liquid content for a lower-carbohydrate soup that maintains rich flavor profile.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during sausage cooking stage to create a hotter, more intense soup for heat-loving palates.

Zucchini Tomato Sausage Soup FAQ

• How do I know when the Italian sausage is fully cooked?

Look for a golden-brown color and make sure there are no pink spots when you break the meat apart. The internal temperature should reach 160°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.

• Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with turkey sausage or ground beef for a similar flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly and seasoned well.

• Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be easily reheated. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time.

• What can I do if the soup is too thick?

Simply add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Start with small amounts and stir until you get the right texture you prefer.

Italian Sausage Soup with Zucchini: Overview

• This hearty soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Packed with zucchini, tomatoes, and protein-rich Italian sausage, this soup delivers a balanced, satisfying meal that keeps you full and nourished.
• Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor define this recipe, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without creating a mountain of dishes to wash afterward.
• Affordable ingredients and easy preparation make this soup an excellent option for feeding a hungry family or hosting casual gatherings without breaking the bank.

Ingredients in Zucchini Tomato Sausage Soup

• Italian Sausage: A hearty protein that adds rich, spicy flavor to the soup; choose fresh, high-quality sausage for best results; mild or hot varieties work well.

• Zucchini: Fresh, seasonal zucchini provides a tender texture and mild flavor; look for firm, bright green squash without blemishes.
• Tomatoes: Adds bright, tangy sweetness and depth to the soup; fresh or canned roma tomatoes are excellent choices.

• Olive Oil: Essential for sautéing and building flavor base; extra virgin olive oil recommended for best taste.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth and classic Italian seasoning; fresh cloves offer the most robust flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance overall taste profile; use freshly ground black pepper for maximum impact.

Zucchini Tomato Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty zucchini tomato Italian sausage soup delivers comfort straight from Mediterranean kitchens with rich, robust flavors. Simmering ingredients blend seamlessly, promising warmth and satisfaction in each spoonful you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein Base:

• 1 pound (450 grams) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium zucchinis, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced

Liquid and Seasoning Components:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 (14.5 ounces) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot and warm it over medium flame.
2. Crumble Italian sausage into the heated vessel, sizzling and breaking the meat into smaller fragments until it develops a rich golden-brown color and releases its savory essence.
3. Remove any accumulated grease by carefully tilting the pot and draining excess fat, ensuring a clean cooking surface.
4. Introduce finely chopped onions to the meat, stirring and allowing them to become translucent and softened, releasing their aromatic sweetness.
5. Mince garlic and sprinkle into the meat mixture, quickly sautéing to prevent burning and develop a fragrant base.
6. Pour in chicken broth, creating a flavorful liquid foundation for the soup’s character.
7. Add diced zucchini and sliced Roma tomatoes, gently incorporating them into the broth to begin absorbing the surrounding flavors.
8. Season the emerging soup with dried basil, oregano, salt, and cracked black pepper, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
9. Allow the soup to simmer gently, letting the ingredients meld and vegetables tenderize, approximately 15-20 minutes.
10. Taste and adjust seasonings, ensuring a balanced and harmonious blend of flavors.
11. Ladle the steaming soup into serving bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

• Pat zucchini dry before adding to prevent watery soup texture and maintain vegetable’s firm consistency.
• Use sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on personal heat preference, allowing customization of flavor profile.
• Remove sausage casings before cooking for smoother meat integration and easier consumption throughout soup.
• Consider adding fresh basil or oregano at end for authentic Italian herb enhancement and bright flavor boost.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg