Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Brown the turkey sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add turkey sausage and break it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Cook until browned and fully cooked through.
- Remove excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté vegetables
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
- Sauté 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the broth
- Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Add beans and optional veggies
- Stir in beans and zucchini (if using).
- Reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes to develop flavor.
Step 5: Add greens
- Stir in spinach or kale and simmer 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Step 6: Serve
- Taste and adjust seasonings.
- Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley and optional parmesan.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Store in the refrigerator for 4–5 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months — ideal for make-ahead meals.🥄 Variations
Creamy VersionAdd ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end. Hearty Tuscany Style
Add baby spinach, white beans, and parmesan. Veggie-Forward Soup
Add mushrooms, leeks, cabbage, or bell peppers. Spicy Kick
Use hot turkey sausage or add chili flakes. Pasta Twist
Add 1 cup small pasta during the last 10 minutes.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use chicken sausage?Yes — chicken sausage works perfectly. Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, add extra garlic and Italian herbs for flavor. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely — just skip parmesan or use a dairy-free version. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes — it freezes very well, especially without pasta. How can I thicken the broth?
Mash a few beans or simmer longer. Can I make it vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. Do I have to use beans?
No — replace them with extra veggies or mushrooms. Can I add potatoes?
Yes — add 2 diced potatoes with the broth. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes — brown sausage first, then cook on LOW for 6 hours. Is this soup spicy?
Mild by default — adjust seasoning as desired.
