Sausage Soup Bertucci’s Recipe brings cozy comfort to your table with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Inspired by the popular Italian-American restaurant Bertucci’s this soup combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables and tender beans for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for chilly days when you want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
We love how this soup balances bold spices and wholesome textures making it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings this recipe delivers on taste and simplicity. Let’s dive into crafting this delicious Sausage Soup Bertucci’s style that will soon become a staple in our meal rotation.
Ingredients
To craft the authentic Sausage Soup Bertucci’s experience, selecting the right ingredients is essential. Below, we break down the key components to assemble the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Sausage
The heart of the soup lies in the sausage, which provides its signature savory depth. We recommend:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (preferably sweet or mild, casing removed for easier crumbling)
- Option: Use spicy Italian sausage if you prefer a bolder, zestier flavor profile
The sausage imparts rich, meaty undertones that anchor the entire soup.
Vegetables
Fresh vegetables add vibrant color and wholesome nutrition that complement the sausage beautifully. For our soup we use:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional for added greens)
These vegetables create a robust base that elevates aroma and taste.
Broth and Seasonings
The broth and seasonings round out the soup’s complex flavor profile. Prepare the following:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Liquid base, rich flavor |
| Cannellini beans | 1 (15-ounce) can, drained and rinsed | Adds creaminess and protein |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Earthy herbaceous note |
| Dried basil | 1 teaspoon | Sweet, slightly peppery aroma |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/4 teaspoon (optional) | Adds a subtle heat kick |
| Salt | To taste | Enhances overall flavors |
| Black pepper | To taste | Adds mild pungency |
We advise using low-sodium broth to control the salt content for a balanced finish.
Optional Add-ins
To customize our Sausage Soup Bertucci’s recipe, consider these optional ingredients that add texture or extra flavor:
- 1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni) for a heartier meal
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top when serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish and fresh herbaceous notes
- Crushed fennel seeds (1/2 teaspoon) if you want to amplify the sausage’s anise flavor
Feel free to personalize the soup to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Equipment Needed
To make the Sausage Soup Bertucci’s Recipe perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us execute every step with precision and ease, ensuring that the final dish is as comforting and flavorful as intended.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
We use this for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, then simmering the soup. Its heavy bottom ensures even heat distribution for a rich broth.
- Sharp chef’s knife
For chopping onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and optional greens with ease and safety.
- Cutting board
Provides a clean, stable surface when preparing our fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching our cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons
Accuracy is key for herbs, broth, and seasoning amounts.
- Colander
Useful for rinsing beans or draining cooked pasta if added.
Additional Helpful Gadgets
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Immersion blender | To puree part of the soup for a creamier texture (optional) |
| Ladle | For serving the soup hot and evenly |
| Soup bowls & spoons | For enjoying the final delicious dish |
Having these tools ready and in good condition allows us to focus on the cooking process without interruption, delivering that famous Savory Sausage Soup Bertucci’s flavor right on our table.
Prep Work
To achieve the authentic Sausage Soup Bertucci’s flavor, careful preparation is essential. Let’s break down the critical steps to get us ready for a smooth cooking experience.
Preparing the Sausage
We start with the Italian sausage, the soul of this dish. Here’s how to prep it properly:
- Remove the sausage from its casing if using links. This allows it to break up evenly while cooking.
- Crumble the sausage into bite-sized pieces for consistent browning.
- For best results, choose sweet, mild, or spicy Italian sausage based on your flavor preference.
- Brown the sausage in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat to render the fat and develop rich flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Remove casing | Tear off casing from sausage links |
| Crumble | Break sausage into small chunks |
| Select type | Sweet, mild, or spicy |
| Cooking tool | Dutch oven or stockpot |
| Cooking method | Brown evenly over medium heat |
“Browning the sausage carefully unlocks the bold, savory notes that make this soup unforgettable.”
Chopping the Vegetables
The vegetable base provides depth and texture to our Sausage Soup Bertucci’s. Precise chopping ensures balanced cooking:
- Onions, carrots, and celery: Dice uniformly into small pieces about 1/4-inch in size to promote even softening.
- Garlic: Mince finely to distribute its pungent aroma throughout the soup.
- Optional greens like kale or spinach should be thoroughly washed and chopped into bite-sized strips or pieces.
- Keep all chopped vegetables ready in separate bowls for quick addition during cooking.
| Vegetable | Preparation | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onion | Peel and dice | 1/4-inch cubes | Allows even caramelization |
| Carrots | Peel and dice | 1/4-inch cubes | Adds sweetness and texture |
| Celery | Wash and dice | 1/4-inch cubes | Provides aromatic base |
| Garlic | Peel and mince | Finely minced | Infuses flavor evenly |
| Kale/Spinach | Wash and chop (optional greens) | Bite-sized strips/pieces | Adds color and nutrition |
“Uniform chopping guarantees that each spoonful offers a perfect blend of tender vegetables with the savory sausage base.”
This meticulous prep work sets us up for a flavorsome and hearty Sausage Soup Bertucci’s that cooks evenly and tastes authentic every time.
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the authentic Sausage Soup Bertucci’s experience in your own kitchen. Each stage builds flavor and texture to ensure a hearty, comforting meal.
Cooking the Sausage
- Remove sausage casing if using links. Crumble the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat.
- Add the sausage to the pot and brown thoroughly, about 6–8 minutes. Stir occasionally to break the meat apart and prevent sticking.
- Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove sausage from the pot, leaving rendered fat behind.
- Set cooked sausage aside while we prepare the vegetables.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- Into the same pot with the sausage drippings, add:
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- Sauté over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Optional: add leafy greens like kale or spinach at this point for added color and nutrition.
Combining Ingredients
- Return the browned sausage to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth to create the soup base.
- Add:
- 1 can (15 oz) drained and rinsed beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: add cooked pasta (about 1 cup) for extra heartiness.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Simmering the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover partially.
- Let the soup simmer gently for 20–25 minutes to meld flavors.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- For a creamier texture, briefly use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, then stir to blend.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
| Step | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Browning sausage | 6–8 minutes | Develop rich flavor, render fat |
| Sautéing vegetables | 5–7 minutes | Soften base, release aroma |
| Simmering soup | 20–25 minutes | Meld flavors, tenderize ingredients |
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Sausage Soup Bertucci’s Recipe, consider these serving suggestions that enhance its rich flavors and hearty texture.
- Serve the soup hot in deep bowls to keep it warm longer. This helps maintain the thickness and coziness of the broth.
- Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The salty sharpness perfectly complements the savory sausage and vegetable medley.
- Add a few fresh basil or oregano leaves on top for a bright, aromatic finish.
- Offer crusty Italian bread or garlic bread on the side. Their crunchy texture contrasts the soup’s rich creaminess and is perfect for dipping.
- For an extra touch of comfort, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a spoonful of crème fraîche before serving.
- Pair the soup with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the meal with freshness.
Here is a quick table summarizing these key serving elements:
| Serving Element | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deep bowls | Maintain soup temperature | Ideal for hearty soups |
| Parmesan cheese | Add salty, savory richness | Use freshly grated |
| Fresh basil/oregano | Enhance aroma and freshness | Optional but recommended |
| Crusty Italian or garlic bread | Add a crunchy, dippable side | Complements texture and flavor |
| Extra virgin olive oil or crème fraîche | Enrich creaminess and flavor | Use sparingly for best effect |
| Simple green salad | Provide fresh, light contrast | Balances richness of soup |
By following these serving suggestions, we elevate the comforting and savory aspects of the soup making it an even more memorable meal for chilly evenings or casual gatherings.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To enjoy Sausage Soup Bertucci’s whenever we want, optimizing make-ahead and storage becomes essential. Here are our expert tips to keep the soup flavorful and fresh for multiple meals.
Make-Ahead Preparation
- Prepare the soup fully following the recipe instructions.
- Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Store in airtight containers to preserve freshness and prevent odors from spreading in the fridge.
- Label containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Refrigerate the soup within 2 hours of cooking to ensure food safety.
- Keep the soup in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Consume within 3 to 4 days for optimal taste and safety.
| Storage Type | Temperature | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 40°F (4°C) or less | 3-4 days |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) or less | Up to 3 months |
Freezing Tips
- Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Leave about 1 inch of space at the top of containers for expansion.
- Freeze promptly after cooling.
- To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Reheating Instructions
- For stovetop reheating, warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
- Avoid overheating as this can reduce flavor and alter texture.
- If using a microwave, heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
Additional Tips
- For the best texture retain the sausage and beans well, so avoid overcooking during reheating.
- Greens like kale or spinach may lose some vibrancy after freezing but will still taste great.
- Fresh herbs and Parmesan garnish are best added fresh upon serving to enhance aroma and flavor.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we ensure our Sausage Soup Bertucci’s Recipe stays delicious and ready for enjoyment anytime.
Conclusion
Sausage Soup Bertucci’s Recipe brings warmth and rich flavors to any table. It’s a versatile dish that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, it’s easy to see why this soup becomes a go-to comfort food.
By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll enjoy a satisfying and authentic taste every time. Whether served with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup promises to delight and nourish. We’re confident it’ll find a special place in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients in Bertucci’s Sausage Soup?
Bertucci’s Sausage Soup primarily includes Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or spicy), fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, celery, beans, chicken broth, and herbs such as oregano and basil. Optional additions are greens like kale or spinach, cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs for garnish.
How do I prepare the sausage for the soup?
Remove the casing from the sausage, crumble it into bite-sized pieces, and brown it in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Browning develops rich flavor and creates the savory base for the soup.
What equipment do I need to make this soup?
You’ll need a large Dutch oven or stockpot for cooking, a sharp chef’s knife, a cutting board, measuring cups, an optional immersion blender for creaminess, a ladle for serving, and soup bowls with spoons.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup fully, cool it to room temperature, and store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days or freeze in portions for longer storage. Reheat gently for best flavor.
How should I serve Bertucci’s Sausage Soup?
Serve hot in deep bowls, garnished with fresh Parmesan and herbs like basil or oregano. Accompany with crusty Italian or garlic bread and consider a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette as a refreshing side.
Is this soup suitable for weeknight dinners?
Absolutely. The recipe is straightforward and quick to prepare, making it perfect for nutritious weeknight meals or casual gatherings with family and friends.
Can the soup be customized to personal tastes?
Yes! You can adjust the sausage type (sweet, mild, spicy), add cooked pasta, include leafy greens like kale or spinach, and top with Parmesan or fresh herbs to suit your preferences.
What is the cooking process for the soup?
First, brown the sausage, then sauté the chopped vegetables in the sausage fat. Combine sausage, vegetables, broth, beans, and seasonings in the pot and simmer until flavors meld and the soup is hearty and delicious.