A rich, hearty Italian sausage pasta soup made with tomatoes, aromatics, herbs, and short-cut pasta — all simmered in one pot for a quick and comforting meal.
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 bay leaf
1½ cups uncooked small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish
Brown sausage in a large pot. Remove and set aside.
Sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
Stir in tomatoes, broth, seasoning, and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer.
Add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
Return sausage to the pot. Simmer 2–3 minutes more.
Stir in greens if using, and let wilt. Adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan and parsley.
For a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end. Cook pasta separately if making ahead to avoid sogginess.