Go Back
Bowl of delicious minestrone soup with sausage and fresh vegetables

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

A comforting and hearty minestrone soup with sausage, packed with colorful vegetables and robust flavors, perfect for family gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for a richer flavor, use extra virgin
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium zucchini, diced
  • 1 medium yellow squash, diced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, diced red or yellow adds a sweeter touch
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth homemade or low-sodium is best
For the Sausage and Legumes
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings choose spicy or mild according to preference
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
For Seasoning and Garnish
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for serving
  • Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian sausage. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, breaking the sausage apart as it cooks, until it’s browned and fully cooked.
  4. Add the zucchini, yellow squash, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin softening.
  5. Then, add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and broth.
Cooking
  1. Once the soup base is simmering, incorporate the cannellini and kidney beans, along with the dried oregano and basil.
  2. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 20-25 minutes to meld flavors.
  4. Check the consistency; if you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer.
  5. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

Feel free to substitute any vegetables based on what’s in season or your family’s favorites. Both turkey and chicken sausage can be used for a leaner option.