Name: Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 8 cups homemade chicken stock (Rich and flavorful, it forms the base of our soup.); 1 tsp dried basil (Enhances the herbal notes of the soup.); 1 tsp ground fennel (Adds a sweet, anise-like flavor that complements the sausage.); 2 14.5 oz. cans petite diced tomatoes (Brings a fresh, tangy taste and vibrant color.); 5 tsp olive oil (For sautéing and adding richness.); 1 19.5 oz. package hot or sweet turkey Italian sausage (The star protein that gives the soup its heartiness.); 1 small onion, chopped (Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.); 1 T minced garlic (For that aromatic kick that we all love.); 1/2 C dry macaroni (A comforting addition that makes the soup more filling.); 3 T basil pesto (Infuses the soup with vibrant basil flavor.)

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with robust flavors and hearty ingredients. This Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup combines spicy or sweet turkey Italian sausage with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil pesto, all simmered to perfection in a rich chicken stock. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it a fantastic choice for chilly evenings or any time you need a cozy meal. Best of all, it’s simple to whip up, making it a perfect weeknight dinner solution.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup is not just another soup recipe; it’s a delightful concoction that balances the savory notes of sausage with the bright acidity of tomatoes and the aromatic essence of pesto. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it according to your preferences—whether you prefer it spicy or mild, chunky or smooth. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it not only delicious but also hearty and satisfying.

The Ingredient Lineup

8 cups homemade chicken stock – Rich and flavorful, it forms the base of our soup.
1 tsp. dried basil – Enhances the herbal notes of the soup.
1 tsp. ground fennel – Adds a sweet, anise-like flavor that complements the sausage.
two 14.5 oz. cans petite diced tomatoes – Brings a fresh, tangy taste and vibrant color.
5 tsp. olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
one 19.5 oz. package hot or sweet turkey Italian sausage – The star protein that gives the soup its heartiness.
1 small onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
1 T minced garlic – For that aromatic kick that we all love.
1/2 C dry macaroni – A comforting addition that makes the soup more filling.
3 T basil pesto – Infuses the soup with vibrant basil flavor.

Prep & Cook Tools

Large pot or Dutch oven – Ideal for simmering your soup.
Wooden spoon – Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – For precise ingredient measurements.
Knife and cutting board – Essential for chopping the onion and garlic.

The Method for Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In your large pot, heat 5 teaspoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add the turkey Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with your wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Spices

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the two cans of petite diced tomatoes, dried basil, and ground fennel. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Pour in the Chicken Stock

Next, pour in the 8 cups of homemade chicken stock. Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce it to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Macaroni

Once the soup is simmering, stir in the 1/2 cup of dry macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Pesto

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the 3 tablespoons of basil pesto. This will infuse the soup with a burst of fresh flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra pesto or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your warm, hearty Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Replace turkey Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or lentils for a vegetarian option.
Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a fully vegan version.
Omit the macaroni or use a gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free alternative.

Testing Timeline

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Shelf Life & Storage

This Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the macaroni if you plan on freezing, as it can become mushy. Instead, cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to use any type of sausage you prefer, whether it’s chicken, pork, or even a plant-based alternative. Just be sure to adjust the spices accordingly.

What if I don’t have homemade chicken stock?

No worries! Store-bought chicken stock can also be used, but aim for a low-sodium version to control the saltiness of your soup.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in additional veggies like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

What to Make After This

See You at the Table

This Italian Sausage, Tomato, and Pesto Soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your dining table. With each spoonful, you’ll savor the delightful combination of flavors that make this dish a must-try. So gather your loved ones, serve up a big bowl, and enjoy the heartwarming goodness that only homemade soup can bring. Happy cooking!

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