Instant Pot Sausage Soup: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Anna Johnson

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-10-10T22:24:26.215Z

Instant Pot Sausage Soup is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for families and gatherings. This cozy soup brings together bold flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings. With every bowl, you’ll experience an incredible harmony of spices, fresh ingredients, and a satisfying broth that warms the soul. Not only is it packed with nutrition, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.

If you’ve never tried making sausage soup in your Instant Pot, you’re in for a treat. The meat and vegetables combine like a culinary symphony, creating a rich, savory experience that’s both filling and delightful. This recipe embraces the essence of home-cooked comfort food without the long hours of simmering. In just a short amount of time, you will have a flavorful and nourishing meal that your family will request repeatedly.

In this guide, we'll explore why this Instant Pot Sausage Soup is a must-have recipe in your collection. We’ll walk you through the preparation and cooking times, the list of ingredients you'll need, and provide easy step-by-step instructions to ensure your success. Plus, we’ll touch on serving suggestions that will make your dish even more delightful. Let’s dive into what makes Instant Pot Sausage Soup such an amazing go-to recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Instant Pot Sausage Soup isn't just a quick meal; it's also an incredible option packed with flavor and nutrition. Here are some reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite:

  1. Quick and Easy: The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making this soup ready in under 30 minutes.
  2. Flavorful Ingredients: This soup highlights the robust taste of sausage, complemented by fresh vegetables and savory spices.
  3. Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, it’s an excellent way to add essential nutrients to your diet.
  4. Comforting Dish: The warm and hearty nature of the soup makes it perfect for cozy nights in.
  5. Versatile: You can easily customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
  6. Family-Friendly: With its satisfying flavor, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

With these appealing attributes, it’s easy to see why Instant Pot Sausage Soup is a go-to recipe for so many households.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparing Instant Pot Sausage Soup is efficient and straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the time needed:

  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

These time estimates may vary slightly depending on your cooking skills and equipment, but this gives you a reliable framework for planning your meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 cups kale or spinach (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Instant Pot Sausage Soup is simple when you follow these easy steps:

  1. Set Up the Instant Pot: Turn on the Instant Pot and set it to the sauté mode.
  2. Brown the Sausage: Add the sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
  4. Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable or chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot. Mix well.
  5. Add Beans and Seasoning: Stir in the cannellini beans, kale or spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  6. Seal and Cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to the manual high pressure for 10 minutes.
  7. Natural Release: When the cooking cycle finishes, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully turn the steam release handle to quick release any remaining pressure.
  8. Serve: Open the lid and give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
  9. Garnish: If desired, serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious Instant Pot Sausage Soup ready to enjoy!

How to Serve

Serving Instant Pot Sausage Soup can enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

  1. Presentation: Use rustic bowls or soup mugs for a warm and inviting presentation.
  2. Garnishes: Add grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and flavor.
  3. Bread Pairing: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to complement the soup.
  4. Accompaniments: A side salad can add freshness and balance to this hearty dish.
  5. Storing Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

By focusing on these serving suggestions, you’ll ensure that your Instant Pot Sausage Soup will impress everyone at the table!

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh herbs such as basil or parsley at the end enhances the flavor.
  • Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving to adjust the salt and pepper levels based on your preference.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat or smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.

Recipe Variations

You can easily modify Instant Pot Sausage Soup to suit your taste. Here are a few variations to consider:

  1. Different Sausages: Swap Italian sausage for chorizo or chicken sausage for a unique flavor twist.
  2. Add More Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or potatoes for added nutrition and variety.
  3. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free broth and ensure the sausage is gluten-free, if necessary.

Freezing and Storage

  • Refrigeration: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will remain fresh for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a pot or the microwave.

Special Equipment

To make Instant Pot Sausage Soup, ensure you have the following tools:

  • Instant Pot: The main appliance for this recipe.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and sausage.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
  • Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring ingredients in the pot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different sausages like chicken, turkey, or even vegan sausage for a plant-based version.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this soup in a regular pot. Just simmer it on low for about 40-60 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.

Is this soup spicy?

The soup can be adjusted to your heat preference. Use sweet Italian sausage for milder flavor or spicy sausage for a kick.

Can I add pasta to the soup?

Certainly! You can add small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Just add a bit more broth to accommodate the pasta.

Is Instant Pot Sausage Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It's perfect for meal prep. Prepare a big batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Sausage Soup is a wholesome and satisfying dish that every home cook should have in their repertoire. With its robust flavor, nutritional benefits, and ease of preparation, it’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether enjoyed by itself or paired with sides, this soup will surely warm both hearts and bellies.