There’s something so comforting about a hearty bowl of soup, and Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice is no exception. This flavorful dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender rice, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, aromatic broth. It’s the kind of recipe that warms us from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when we crave a taste of home.
Inspired by the beloved flavors of Bertucci’s, this soup brings a touch of Italian cuisine to our kitchens. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet satisfying enough to impress guests. Whether we’re longtime fans of Bertucci’s or just discovering this classic, recreating it at home is a delicious way to enjoy its signature taste.
Bertucci’s Sausage Soup Recipe With Rice
Crafting our own Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice at home is easier than you might think. This warm and flavorful soup features tender rice, savory Italian sausage, and hearty vegetables all simmered together in a rich broth. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to bring this comforting classic to life.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need for this recipe. Be sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking for a smooth experience.
- 1 pound mild Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed and drained
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth, low sodium
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned. Remove the sausage using a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the same pot. Sauté for 5 minutes or until vegetables soften and start to caramelize.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Tomatoes
- Add the cooked sausage back to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Add Herbs, Seasonings, and Rice
- Stir in basil, oregano, and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a flavorful kick. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
- Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pot. Stir well to ensure the rice doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and all the flavors meld together. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and savor the comforting, rich flavors of Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice.
Cooking Tips
- For added depth of flavor, use a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage.
- Make it gluten-free by checking your broth and sausage labels to ensure they’re gluten-free.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. For storage, keep soup refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Timeline
| Task | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Preparing Ingredients | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Sausage | 7 minutes |
| Sautéing Vegetables | 6 minutes |
| Simmering with Rice | 25 minutes |
| Total Time | ~48 minutes |
This recipe brings a restaurant-quality dish straight to your kitchen. Every bite of this Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice delivers the perfect harmony of bold flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
To create Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice, we’ll need a mix of fresh vegetables, savory proteins, herbs, and pantry staples. Here’s the complete list of ingredients, organized in the order of use for seamless preparation. Make sure all components are prepped as noted for a smoother cooking process.
For the Soup Base:
- 1 lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, with juice
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Rice:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice, rinsed under cold water
- 2 cups water for separate rice preparation (optional, see tips below)
Optional Garnishes:
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, finely chopped
Quick Preparation Tips:
- Ensure all vegetables are chopped evenly for uniform cooking.
- If you’d like extra flavor in the rice, consider cooking it directly in the soup rather than separately.
- For a gluten-free version, double-check that your sausage and chicken broth are both labeled gluten-free.
This combination of high-quality ingredients creates the foundation for a hearty, restaurant-quality soup packed with bold flavors and textures.
Equipment You’ll Need
To prepare Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice, making sure you have the right kitchen tools is essential for smooth cooking and ensuring the best result. Below is a detailed list of all the Equipment You’ll Need, along with their specific uses:
Essential Tools:
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A heavy-bottomed pot ensures even heat distribution for cooking the sausage and simmering the soup perfectly.
- Chef’s Knife: Used for dicing onions, celery, carrots, and other vegetables.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping all vegetables and herbs.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the soup and browning the sausage without scratching your pot.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements of broth, seasoning, and rice. Precision is key!
- Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup without mess.
- Colander: For rinsing rice, if necessary.
- Tongs: Handy for maneuvering sausage during browning.
- Grater (optional): If you choose to finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Optional Extras:
- Immersion Blender (if preferred): To slightly puree the soup for a creamier texture. While not traditional, this can be a fun twist!
- Rice Cooker (if cooking rice separately): Simplifies the process for those who want to skip cooking rice in the soup pot.
| Equipment | Primary Use |
|---|---|
| Large Soup Pot | Simmering soup and cooking sausage evenly. |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping vegetables like onions and carrots. |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring soup and preventing sticking. |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate measurement of ingredients. |
| Ladle | Serving soup cleanly and efficiently. |
| Grater | For shredding Parmesan or other toppings. |
Directions
Let’s transform simple ingredients into a rich, hearty bowl of Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice. Follow these step-by-step directions to ensure every layer of flavor shines.
Prep The Ingredients
- Wash and dice 1 medium onion, 2 celery stalks, and 2 medium carrots into small, even pieces for balanced cooking.
- Mince 3 garlic cloves finely.
- Measure out 1 cup of long-grain white rice and rinse it under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Open and set aside 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth.
- Ensure the 1 lb of mild Italian sausage is ready—either remove casings if using links or have ground sausage prepared.
Cook The Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
Note: If there’s too much fat left in the pot, carefully discard some—leave about 1-2 tablespoons for sautéing.
Prepare The Soup Base
- In the same pot with the reserved fat, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté over medium heat for 5-6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and the 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat).
- Bring the soup base to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
Add Rice And Simmer
- Add the rinsed 1 cup of rice and the cooked sausage back into the soup. Stir well to distribute evenly.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.
Cooking Tip: Check the rice for doneness—if needed, add an extra ½ cup of broth and simmer for a few more minutes to achieve a tender texture.
Final Touches And Serving
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- For added depth of flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley or basil, chopped finely.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Optional Garnish:
- Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a finishing touch.
- Serve with warm crusty Italian bread for dipping.
Pro Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
| Time & Cooking Stats | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Servings | 6 hearty portions |
Tips For Success
Preparation and attention to detail can elevate our Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice to restaurant-quality perfection. Here are some key strategies to ensure success:
1. Start with Quality Ingredients
- Opt for fresh vegetables like onions, celery, and carrots to build a robust flavor base.
- Use high-quality Italian sausage—mild or spicy depending on your taste.
- Select long-grain white rice or try jasmine rice for a slightly aromatic twist.
- Ensure the chicken broth is low-sodium to control saltiness in the final dish.
- When using canned tomatoes, look for San Marzano varieties for a richer, more authentic taste.
2. Timing is Key
Cooking the rice directly in the soup enhances flavor, but be precise with timing to avoid mushy grains. For reference, keep this guide in mind:
| Rice Type | Cooking Time in Soup |
|---|---|
| Long-Grain White | 15-20 minutes |
| Jasmine | 12-15 minutes |
| Brown Rice | 35-40 minutes |
If you’re using pre-cooked or leftover rice, add it during the final 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.
3. Layer the Flavors
- Brown the sausage thoroughly to build a deep, savory base. Scrape up any browned bits from the pot—they are flavor gold!
- Sauté the garlic and vegetables until softened to release their natural sweetness and aroma.
4. Adjust Seasoning Smartly
The flavor of Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice is versatile. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings. Add salt, pepper, or *crushed red pepper *for heat incrementally—it’s easier to add more than to take away.
5. Keep it Gluten-Free, if Necessary
Double-check the labels on store-bought sausage and chicken broth. Some brands may add fillers like wheat or gluten. There are plenty of gluten-free options available to cater to dietary restrictions.
6. Add Freshness Before Serving
To enhance the finished soup:
- Stir in freshly chopped basil or parsley for a burst of color and brightness.
- A squeeze of lemon juice can help balance the rich flavors.
- Don’t forget to top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added depth.
7. Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rice can absorb the broth over time. Add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency. Heat on the stove over medium heat for the best results.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
Preparing Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice in advance is an excellent way to save time and enjoy a home-cooked meal with ease. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or storing leftovers, follow these make-ahead and storage tips to keep the soup fresh and flavorful.
Make-Ahead Preparation
If you wish to make this soup ahead of time, try these steps to streamline the process:
- Cook the base beforehand: Prepare the soup base, including cooking the sausage, sautéing the vegetables, and combining the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Leave out the rice during this step to prevent it from overcooking or becoming soggy.
- Store the base separately: Transfer the soup base to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prepare the rice fresh: Cook the rice separately just before serving or add pre-cooked rice to the reheated soup for a fresher texture.
Storage Instructions
Follow these storage tips to preserve leftovers:
Refrigerator Storage:
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to containers.
- Use airtight containers to maintain freshness.
- Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Storage:
- For longer storage, freeze the soup (without rice) in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Ensure at least 1-inch headspace in the container to accommodate expansion.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Pro Tip: Freeze soup in single-serving portions using freezer bags or silicone molds. This makes it easy to grab, thaw, and reheat only what you need.
Reheating Instructions
Proper reheating helps maintain the texture and flavor of the soup:
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a saucepan and heat over medium heat while stirring occasionally. Add a little water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments, stirring after each session, until evenly warmed.
- Add rice last: If the rice was prepared fresh or stored separately, stir it into the reheated soup just before serving.
Texture and Flavor Maintenance
Overcooked rice can break down and alter the soup’s texture. To avoid this:
- Store rice and soup separately: If possible, store leftover rice in its own container and combine it with the soup when reheating.
- Add fresh garnishes: Refresh the flavors with freshly chopped herbs, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of Parmesan after reheating.
Quick Storage Reference Table
| Storage Method | Maximum Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Cool soup before storing in airtight containers. |
| Freezer | 3 months | Freeze without rice. Leave headspace in containers and use single-serve portions for convenience. |
Variations And Substitutions
When it comes to Bertucci’s Sausage Soup Recipe with Rice, versatility is key. Whether you want to tailor the soup to dietary restrictions or infuse it with bold, new flavors, we’ve got some exciting ideas and substitutions to try. Customizing this recipe allows us to create a dish that suits different preferences while maintaining its hearty charm.
Protein Alternatives
While Italian sausage is the star of this soup, there are plenty of ways to switch it up:
- Substitute mild Italian sausage with spicy sausage for a bold kick.
- Opt for turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner protein option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or sautéed mushrooms to retain that savory, umami flavor.
- Incorporate ground beef, pork, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a unique spin.
Rice Substitutions
The rice adds substance, but various grains can bring their own texture and taste to this recipe:
- Use brown rice for a nutty flavor and added fiber.
- Swap in wild rice for a chewy texture and earthy undertone.
- For a faster option, try instant rice or even cooked quinoa.
- Gluten-free dieters can rely on cauliflower rice, which also lightens up the dish.
Broth and Base Alternatives
The foundation of this soup is its flavorful broth, which can be personalized in several ways:
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it vegetarian.
- Add a touch of beef broth for a richer, deeper base flavor.
- Stir in coconut milk or heavy cream at the end for a creamy texture.
- Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a thicker consistency.
Creative Add-Ins
Elevate the soup with these imaginative additions:
- Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale toward the end for added greens.
- Include zucchini or squash for a seasonal twist.
- Stir in a can of drained white beans for extra protein and texture.
- Experiment with seasonings like smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or Italian seasoning for added depth.
Herb and Garnish Possibilities
Finish the soup with these fresh and flavorful choices:
- Garnish with fresh basil, parsley, or cilantro for a burst of color.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino romano for a sharp, salty kick.
- Add a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar to brighten the flavors.
Example Variation Combos
Here are some pairing suggestions to bring these substitutions together in harmony:
| Variation Theme | Key Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Spicy Kick | Spicy sausage, red pepper flakes, kale | Bold, fiery, and robust |
| Vegetarian Delight | Plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, spinach | Light, healthy, and plant-based |
| Rustic Comfort | Wild rice, shredded chicken, smoked paprika | Hearty, smoky, and deeply satisfying |
| Creamy & Savory | Brown rice, coconut milk, zucchini | Creamy, slightly sweet, and velvety |
Conclusion
Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice is more than just a meal—it’s a bowl of comfort packed with bold flavors and endless possibilities. Whether you’re recreating the classic recipe or experimenting with variations, this dish is a versatile addition to any home cook’s repertoire.
With its hearty ingredients, simple preparation, and customizable options, it’s perfect for weeknights, special occasions, or meal prepping. By following our tips and techniques, you can achieve a restaurant-quality soup that warms the soul and satisfies every craving.
We hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this timeless dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice?
Bertucci’s Sausage Soup with Rice is a comforting dish made with Italian sausage, rice, vegetables, and a rich broth. It’s flavorful, hearty, and perfect for chilly evenings or quick gatherings.
Can I use a different type of sausage in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute mild Italian sausage with spicy sausage, turkey sausage, or plant-based options to suit dietary needs or preferences.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Ensure the sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free by checking their labels. All other ingredients for the soup are naturally gluten-free.
What types of rice work best for this soup?
White rice is commonly used, but brown rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice are great alternatives to customize the flavor or nutrition profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Should I cook the rice separately or in the soup?
The recipe cooks rice directly in the soup for added flavor, but you can cook it separately to prevent the rice from absorbing too much broth in leftovers.
What are some variations to this recipe?
You can add spinach, kale, zucchini, or white beans to enhance the soup. Experiment with vegetable broth, coconut milk, or different herbs for creative flavor combinations.
Can I prepare the soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the soup base in advance and store it separately from the rice. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating for the best texture.
What are the best garnishes for this soup?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a squeeze of lemon juice are excellent finishing touches to elevate the flavor.
What equipment do I need to make this soup?
You’ll need a large soup pot or Dutch oven, a chef’s knife, a cutting board, a wooden spoon, measuring tools, a ladle, and optional tools like a colander or an immersion blender.
Can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Yes, you can! Taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the salt, pepper, or spices according to your preferences. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.