30-Minute Italian Sausage, Vegetable, and Rice Soup

This hearty and flavorful Italian Sausage, Vegetable, and Rice Soup is a perfect meal for busy weeknights. Combining savory Italian sausage with a medley of fresh vegetables and tender rice, this one-pot dish delivers comfort and nutrition in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• One-Pot Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleanup.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and grains for a balanced meal.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Red bell pepper
• Green beans
• Diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Rice (white or brown)
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh basil
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Sauté the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Incorporate Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Combine Remaining Ingredients: Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and rice. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Finish with Herbs: Stir in chopped fresh basil just before serving for a burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
• Preparation Time: About 10 minutes.
• Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes.
• Total Time: Around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Grain Options: Substitute rice with orzo pasta or wild rice for a different texture.
• Vegetable Choices: Feel free to add or swap vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale.
• Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild or spicy Italian sausage and adding red pepper flakes if desired.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier soup.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Note that the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or water if it has thickened. Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

What type of rice works best in this soup?

Both white and brown rice work well. Keep in mind that brown rice may require a longer cooking time.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, you can stir in pre-cooked rice towards the end of the cooking process to heat through.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I add beans to this soup?

Yes, adding beans like cannellini or great northern beans can enhance the protein content and make the soup even heartier.

What can I serve with this soup?

A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad complements this soup nicely.

How do I adjust the spice level?

Use mild sausage for a less spicy soup or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics before transferring all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Properly stored, it will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

This 30-Minute Italian Sausage, Vegetable, and Rice Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. Its combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender rice creates a comforting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delicious flavors in every bowl!

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