Here’s a comforting and hearty recipe for Sausage Ravioli Soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal. This soup combines Italian sausage, cheese ravioli, and vegetables in a flavorful broth for a delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
- 1 (9 oz) package fresh or frozen cheese ravioli
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- If there’s excess grease, drain it off, but leave a little for flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot with the sausage.
- Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the Seasoning and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot and stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Ravioli:
- Add the cheese ravioli to the pot and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the ravioli are cooked through. If the soup is too thick, you can add a cup of water to adjust the consistency.
6. Add the Spinach:
- Stir in the chopped spinach (if using) during the last minute of cooking, just until wilted.
7. Season and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle the sausage ravioli soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley.
Tips:
- Ravioli Options: You can use store-bought cheese ravioli or homemade if you prefer. Spinach or meat-filled ravioli would also work well.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Add-ins: You can add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the soup for extra flavor and texture.
This Sausage Ravioli Soup is a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or to warm up on a cold day! Enjoy!