Introduction
Welcome to our blog! Today, we are excited to share with you a delicious copycat recipe for Bertucci's Sausage Soup. If you're a fan of this popular dish from the renowned Italian restaurant, you're in for a treat. With our step-by-step guide, you'll be able to recreate the comforting flavors of this soup right in your own kitchen. So, let's get started!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let's take a look at the ingredients you'll need:
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, let's move on to the step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth
Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Season and Add Pasta
Next, add the dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the soup. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings. Then, add the small pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach
Once the pasta is cooked, add the chopped fresh spinach to the pot. Stir well and let the soup cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the pot from the heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. This hearty and flavorful Bertucci's Sausage Soup will surely impress your family and friends!
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure that your Bertucci's Sausage Soup turns out perfectly:
Use High-Quality Italian Sausage
The key to achieving the authentic flavors of this soup lies in using high-quality Italian sausage. Look for sausage that is well-seasoned and made with traditional Italian spices for the best results.
Sauté the Aromatics
Sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery before adding the liquids helps to develop their flavors and enhances the overall taste of the soup. Be sure to cook them until they are softened, but not browned.
Adjust the Seasonings
Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your personal preference. Add more dried herbs, salt, or pepper if desired. Taste the soup as it cooks and make adjustments as needed.
Choose the Right Pasta
When selecting pasta for this soup, opt for small shapes that can easily be scooped up with a spoon. Ditalini or elbow macaroni work well, but feel free to use any small pasta you have on hand.
Don't Overcook the Pasta
Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook slightly when you add the spinach to the soup. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness before adding the remaining ingredients.
Be Generous with Parmesan Cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese adds a delicious finishing touch to the soup. Be generous when sprinkling it over each serving, as it adds a savory and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Conclusion
There you have it – a scrumptious copycat recipe for Bertucci's Sausage Soup. By following our detailed instructions and helpful tips, you'll be able to recreate the flavors of this beloved restaurant dish in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty soup with your loved ones. Buon appetito!