Cozy Up with a Hearty and Easy Ravioli Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and satisfaction after a long day. This hearty and easy ravioli soup recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With the convenience of store-bought ravioli and simple ingredients, you can have a rich and flavorful soup on the table in no time. This recipe combines the robust flavors of sausage, fresh vegetables, and tender cheese ravioli in a savory tomato broth, creating a dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

To make this hearty ravioli soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb pork sausage or Italian sausage: Adds a rich, meaty flavor to the soup.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a sweet and savory base.
• 1 red bell pepper: Adds color and sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup an authentic Italian taste.
• 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce: Forms the base of the broth.
• 4 cups low sodium beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the soup.
• 10 ounces frozen cheese ravioli (half of a 20-ounce box): The star of the dish, offering a creamy, cheesy texture.
• 10 ounces baby spinach: Adds a touch of freshness and nutrients.
• Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (low moisture): For a gooey, melty topping.
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan: For an extra layer of cheesy goodness.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a comforting and hearty ravioli soup:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium heat.
2. When the sausage is about halfway browned, add the finely chopped onion and red bell pepper.
3. Continue to cook until the sausage is fully browned and the onion and red bell pepper are soft.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Seasoning

1. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the pot.
2. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to release the flavors.

Step 3: Incorporate the Base Ingredients

1. Add the can of tomato sauce and the beef broth to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Ravioli

1. Add the frozen cheese ravioli to the simmering soup.
2. Continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the ravioli is tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

1. Add the baby spinach to the pot.
2. Stir gently until the spinach is wilted and incorporated into the soup.

Step 6: Prepare for Serving

1. Ladle the soup into broiler-safe bowls.
2. Top each bowl with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Broil the Soup

1. Place the bowls on a baking sheet and put them under the broiler.
2. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Step 8: Finish with Parmesan

1. Sprinkle each bowl of soup with grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy the hearty, comforting flavors.

Tips for the Perfect Ravioli Soup

• Broiler Safety: Use broiler-proof bowls and place them on an old baking sheet with a rim to prevent any spills. Keep a close eye on the soup while broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave at reduced power to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Cool the soup to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ravioli instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh ravioli. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as fresh ravioli will cook faster than frozen.

Can I substitute the pork sausage with another protein?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage can be used as a substitute for pork sausage.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat, you can include red pepper flakes or use a spicy Italian sausage. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.

Is it necessary to broil the soup before serving?

Broiling the soup is optional but highly recommended. It melts the mozzarella cheese perfectly, adding a delightful cheesy crust on top.

What other vegetables can I add to this soup?

Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. Just add them in step 1 along with the onion and bell pepper.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add more vegetables or a plant-based protein for added texture and flavor.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Ensure that the ravioli you use is gluten-free. Many stores offer gluten-free ravioli options that would work perfectly in this recipe.

Enjoy this hearty ravioli soup as a comforting meal that warms you up from the inside out. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for any busy weeknight.