This creamy ravioli soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender ravioli and hearty sausage, it’s delicious comfort food that’s easy to make.
I love how the creamy broth wraps around the pasta, making each bite so good. Plus, it comes together in no time—perfect for cozy nights in! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its flavor. You can go with mild or spicy depending on your preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well, too.
Ravioli: Cheese ravioli is my go-to, but you can use any filling you like! Mushroom, spinach, or even butternut squash ravioli make great alternatives. Just check the cooking time.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but if you want a lighter option, half-and-half works well. For dairy-free, use coconut milk, though this will slightly change the flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. If you don’t have fresh, feel free to use frozen spinach—just thaw and drain it first.
How Do You Make the Best Creamy Soup Base?
Making a rich and creamy soup base is all about layering flavors. Start by sautéing the sausage until it’s browned. This adds a deep flavor to the broth. Then, cook onions and carrots until they’re softened before adding garlic.
- Use medium heat for sautéing; this helps avoid burning while building flavor.
- Don’t skip the garlic—add it at the end of the vegetable sautéing to keep its flavor bright.
- When you add the broth, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any tasty bits stuck there.
Following these steps ensures you create a flavorful foundation for your creamy ravioli soup, making every spoonful delicious!
Creamy Ravioli Soup with Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (25 oz) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy ravioli soup takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll be enjoying this comforting meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot with the sausage. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. The smell will be wonderful!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter!
4. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer.
5. Cook the Ravioli:
Add the refrigerated cheese ravioli to the pot. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float and are tender. This part means your soup is coming together!
6. Add Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is warmed through.
7. Season the Soup:
Taste your soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Adjusting the seasoning is key for the best flavor!
8. Serve It Up:
Ladle the creamy ravioli soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color.
9. Enjoy!
Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread on the side if you’d like. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of your comforting ravioli soup!
Perfect for cozy nights in or when you want something delicious but easy to prepare!
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen ravioli can be used; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Ensure they are fully cooked through and floating to confirm they are done.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the soup will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, consider coconut milk, which provides a unique flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and add them along with the onions and carrots so they have time to soften.
