Name: Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow, or similar); 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or basil (optional)

If you love cozy, hearty meals that feel like a hug in a bowl, this Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup will absolutely hit the spot. With tender pasta, savory sausage, and a rich tomato base finished with a touch of cream and cheese, every spoonful is pure comfort. Whether you’re battling cold weather or simply craving a filling, easy dinner, this soup delivers.

It comes together quickly and doesn’t require fancy ingredients. It’s one of those dishes that tastes like it simmered for hours, but really only needs around 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup

This soup is the definition of family-friendly comfort food. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but hearty enough for Sunday dinner. The sausage gives it a flavorful depth, the tomatoes add a bright tanginess, and the pasta soaks up all that goodness for a spoonful of satisfaction every time.

It also scales well, meaning you can double it for a crowd or freeze half for later. Customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or spice it up with red pepper flakes if you like a kick. And let’s not forget the crown of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup, you won’t need much more than basic kitchen essentials, but each plays a key role:

Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution, preventing scorching and helping the flavors meld together beautifully.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For browning the sausage and scraping up all those delicious browned bits at the bottom.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping onions, garlic, or any additional vegetables you decide to toss in.
Ladle: For serving soup easily without spills.
Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan melts more evenly and adds so much flavor, so skip the pre-shredded bag if you can.

Have these tools ready, and you’ll be prepped for a smooth, stress-free cooking experience.

Ingredients for the Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup

Italian Sausage (mild or spicy): Adds a rich, meaty flavor that forms the backbone of the soup.
Diced Tomatoes (canned): Brings brightness and acidity that balances the richness of the sausage.
Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and gives the broth a thicker, deeper body.
Garlic: Enhances the aroma and adds depth.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and acts as a flavor base.
Pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow): Absorbs the broth and makes the soup hearty.
Chicken Broth: Forms the liquid base and adds a savory foundation.
Heavy Cream: A splash at the end for a silky finish.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper: Season to taste.
Parmesan Cheese: For finishing; it adds umami and creaminess.
Fresh Parsley or Basil (optional): For garnish and a pop of freshness.

How To Make the Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside if you want to drain the excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Return the sausage to the pot. Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors develop.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in your pasta and cook according to package directions right in the soup. This lets the pasta soak up the savory broth.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley or basil.

How to Serve and Store Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup

This soup is best served hot and fresh, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper. Crusty bread or garlic knots make the perfect dipping partner. You could also add a light green salad on the side to round out the meal.

For storing, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating. To freeze, portion the soup (minus the pasta if possible) into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage is ideal, either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage as a leaner option.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but be sure to peel and dice them. Canned tomatoes are more convenient and consistent in flavor, especially off-season.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Simply omit the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The soup will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the sausage and tomatoes.

Can I substitute a different pasta?

Absolutely. Short pasta shapes like fusilli, rotini, or shells work great. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is this recipe spicy?

That depends on your sausage choice. If you use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes, it will have a nice kick. Otherwise, it’s quite mild.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients (except cream and pasta) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Add cooked pasta and cream at the end.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving this Sausage and Tomato Pasta Soup, here are a few more comforting bowls worth slurping:

Hearty Italian Sausage Soup when you want rustic flavors in every spoonful.
Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for a spicy and creamy Asian twist.
Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque if you’re in the mood for elegant seafood comfort.
Authentic Tom Kha Gai Soup packed with coconut, lime, and depth.
Jalapeño Heat Shrimp Soup if you like your soup bold and spicy.