Creamy Sausage and Shells Soup (Hearty, Family-Friendly Comfort Food)

This Creamy Sausage and Shells Soup is loaded with Italian sausage, pasta, and a rich, savory broth—perfect for cozy family dinners!

Introduction

At Cooking with Greens, we love those one-pot wonders that bring everyone to the table. This Creamy Sausage and Shells Soup is hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor from Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, savory broth. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends with the family.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 quarts chicken stock
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup medium pasta shells
1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Brown sausage in oil, breaking up while cooking. Remove and set aside.
Cook onion and garlic in the same pan until fragrant and translucent.
Add diced tomatoes, chicken stock, seasonings, and return sausage to the pot. Simmer gently.
Add pasta shells and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and soup is creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
Swap in turkey or plant-based sausage for a different protein.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup ahead?
Yes! It reheats well—just add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze it, but the pasta may soften. For best results, freeze without the pasta and add fresh when reheating.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! Any short pasta works well in this recipe.

Love hearty soups?

Try our Spicy Umami Blend for extra depth
Explore more comfort food recipes
Shop Cooking with Greens spice blends to bring more flavor to your kitchen!