Ravioli Soup

Ravioli Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Combining savory sausage, tender vegetables, and chewy ravioli in a rich broth, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. It’s quick and easy to make, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual family meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pork sausage or Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 6 cups water
• 1 package of ravioli (fresh or frozen, any flavor you prefer)

Directions

1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Stir occasionally, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in 6 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Once boiling, add the ravioli and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 5-7 minutes for fresh ravioli or 7-10 minutes for frozen ravioli).
5. Once the ravioli are cooked and the soup is hot, serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

1. Add greens: Stir in some spinach, kale, or other leafy greens toward the end of cooking for added flavor and nutrition.
2. Spices: Experiment with herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme for extra flavor. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a little heat.
3. Use broth: For a richer flavor, substitute the 6 cups of water with chicken or vegetable broth.
4. Cheese: Stir in some grated Parmesan or mozzarella for extra creaminess and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, add a little extra broth or water when reheating.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use different sausage types? Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, including turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage.
2. Can I use frozen ravioli? Yes, frozen ravioli works perfectly in this soup. Just follow the package directions for cooking time.
3. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but the ravioli may become softer as it sits. It’s best to cook the ravioli right before serving.
4. Can I freeze this soup? While the soup can be frozen, the ravioli may become mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider cooking the ravioli separately and adding it when reheating.
5. Can I add other vegetables? Yes, you can add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
6. Can I make the soup creamy? To make the soup creamy, you can stir in a little heavy cream or milk after cooking the ravioli.
7. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of ravioli? Yes, you can use any type of pasta, such as tortellini or regular small pasta like ditalini, but ravioli adds a nice, hearty element to the soup.
8. How spicy is this soup? This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to increase the heat.
9. Can I use store-bought broth instead of water? Yes, you can use chicken, vegetable, or beef broth to enhance the flavor of the soup.
10. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or skip it altogether for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Ravioli Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. With its simple ingredients and versatile nature, this soup can be customized to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish to serve to friends and family, this soup is a sure winner.