Sausage Soup Slow Cooker Recipe (Guide)

Let me tell you, there’s something about a warm, hearty bowl of sausage soup that just hits the soul. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings, busy weekdays, or anytime you just want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe is how effortlessly the slow cooker transforms simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful soup, blending savory sausage with tender vegetables and warming spices.

• Why It Works So Well In A Slow Cooker

  • The sausage releases its natural fats, infusing the broth with deep, savory flavor.
  • Vegetables simmer gently, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and heartiness.
  • It’s essentially ’set it and forget it’-ideal for busy lives.

By the end, you’ll have a soup that’s not only satisfying but also flexible, allowing you to tweak flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

Sausage Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

This is the kind of recipe that works for a weeknight dinner, a lazy Sunday, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, leaving you free to relax, prep a side salad, or just enjoy the amazing aromas filling your home.

Ingredient List

Here’s a breakdown of everything you’ll need to get started. The quantities here are perfect for 6-8 servings.

• Meat & Protein

  • 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy depending on preference)

• Vegetables

  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (optional but adds color and sweetness)
  • 1 cup potatoes, diced (for extra heartiness)

• Liquids & Broth

  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned is perfect)

• Seasonings & Herbs

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Extras

  • 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (added near the end)
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan for topping (optional)

Instruction Guide

Now, let’s walk step-by-step through making this soup. I promise it’s easier than it sounds!

1. Prep The Sausage

   • Remove sausage from casing if using links and crumble into bite-sized pieces.
   • Optional: Brown in a skillet for 4-5 minutes for added depth of flavor.

2. Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker

   • Place onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes in the slow cooker.

3. Add Sausage And Liquids

   • Toss the browned (or raw, if you prefer) sausage on top of the vegetables.
   • Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes.

4. Season It Up

   • Sprinkle oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Give everything a gentle stir.

5. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
   • The flavors will meld beautifully, and the vegetables will become tender.

6. Finish And Serve

   • Add chopped kale or spinach in the last 10 minutes.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning.
   • Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan and some crusty bread on the side.

Ingredient Swaps

Don’t have exactly what’s listed? No problem-this soup is incredibly forgiving.

• Protein

  • Turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage
  • Ground beef or even cubed smoked ham for a twist

• Vegetables

  • Swap carrots with parsnips or sweet potatoes
  • Use zucchini, mushrooms, or green beans instead of bell pepper

• Liquids

  • Low-sodium broth or a mix of broth and water
  • Crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes for a thicker consistency

Helpful Tips

A few insider tricks to make your soup even better:

• Brown the sausage: It’s optional but adds a caramelized, savory depth.
• Don’t overcook delicate greens: Add spinach or kale near the end to prevent sogginess.
• Adjust thickness: If you like a thicker soup, mash some potatoes in the slow cooker before serving.
• Make ahead: Soup often tastes better the next day as flavors continue to meld.

Customization Ideas

This soup is like a canvas-you can paint it any way you want:

• Spicy kick: Add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• Creamy version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
• Pasta lover: Toss in small pasta like orzo or ditalini during the last 20 minutes.
• Herb boost: Fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley can elevate the flavor.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Typically Used In A Sausage Soup Slow Cooker Recipe?

Common ingredients include Italian sausage or smoked sausage, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, bell peppers, canned tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, beans or lentils, and seasonings such as salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs.

How Long Should Sausage Soup Be Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking times vary depending on the slow cooker and the specific recipe, but generally, sausage soup should be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop.

Can I Use Precooked Sausage In A Slow Cooker Soup?

Yes, precooked sausage can be used. If using precooked sausage, add it towards the last 1-2 hours of cooking to prevent it from becoming overcooked and dry.

Is It Necessary To Brown The Sausage Before Adding It To The Slow Cooker?

Browning the sausage is recommended as it enhances flavor and texture. However, it is not strictly necessary; the sausage will still cook thoroughly in the slow cooker.

Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian Or Use A Plant-based Sausage?

Yes, you can substitute sausage with plant-based or vegetarian sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add extra vegetables or beans to maintain heartiness.

How Can I Make The Soup Thicker If It Seems Too Watery?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or beans, add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water), or let the soup cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Can I Freeze Sausage Soup For Later Use?

Yes, sausage soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, transfer to airtight containers, and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.

What Are Some Common Variations Of Sausage Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Variations include adding kale or spinach for a green soup, using different types of sausage like chorizo or bratwurst, incorporating pasta or rice, or making it with a creamy base using milk or cream.

How Do I Adjust The Seasoning In A Slow Cooker Sausage Soup?

Slow cooking can sometimes mellow flavors. Taste the soup near the end of cooking and adjust seasoning by adding salt, pepper, herbs, or spices as needed. Fresh herbs are best added in the last 30 minutes.

Is Sausage Soup Suitable For Meal Prepping?

Yes, sausage soup is excellent for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be portioned into individual containers for easy reheating during the week.