Hearty Sausage and Vegetable Soup

When the weather turns cooler, nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This Sausage and Vegetable Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s packed with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that combines the rich flavors of sausage with wholesome veggies like potatoes, carrots, and bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 3 sticks celery, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin or chopped
• 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup corn (frozen or fresh)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and crumble the Italian sausage into the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add Aromatics:
   • Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
3. Add Vegetables and Liquid:
   • Stir in the chicken broth and water, followed by the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and chopped red bell pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
   • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add the Corn:
   • Stir in the frozen corn and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the corn is heated through.
6. Season to Taste:
   • Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
7. Serve:
   • Once the soup is fully cooked, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley if desired, or enjoy it with a side of crusty bread.

Conclusion:

This Sausage and Vegetable Soup is the perfect blend of savory sausage and vibrant vegetables, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. With its rich broth and nutritious ingredients, it’s a comforting soup that’s both easy to make and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household!