Ingredients
Scale
Gather these humble yet flavorful ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to creating a meal that feels like a heartfelt embrace.
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow)
- 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step always reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the smell of sautéing onions meant something delicious was on the way.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, along with their juices. Stir in the basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the pasta and continue to simmer until the pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the chopped spinach, and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving. This final touch not only enhances the flavor but also adds that extra layer of love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International