Italian Sausage Potato Soup with Carrots & Spinach is a hearty, flavorful soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Here’s a recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk, or casings removed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed to brown the sausage)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 2 cups water (adjust as needed for soup consistency)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamy finish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil (if needed) and sauté the onion over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add potatoes and carrots:
- Add the diced potatoes and carrots to the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
- Add broth and simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- Add the sausage and spinach:
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach. Let the spinach wilt and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Finish the soup (optional):
- For a creamy version, stir in the heavy cream and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley (optional), and serve hot!
This soup is rich and comforting, with the savory sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh spinach adding great flavor and texture. Would you like any variations or specific tips for this recipe?