Bertucci's Sausage Soup Recipe

Chef Nora Benson

October 29, 2024

A hearty sausage soup inspired by Bertucci’s, packed with Italian sausage, creamy beans, and fresh veggies. This comforting, one-pot meal brings savory warmth to any chilly evening. Perfect for cozying up with a bowlful!

Nothing quite beats the cozy warmth of a well-made sausage soup, especially one inspired by the flavors of Bertucci’s. This Bertucci’s sausage soup recipe promises a heartwarming bowl of rich, savory goodness that’ll remind you of the best Italian kitchens. You’ll get layers of flavor from juicy Italian sausage, hearty white beans, and an aromatic blend of vegetables. It’s a meal that’s just as satisfying on a chilly night as it is comforting for a big family gathering.

This recipe is crafted to capture everything you love about Bertucci’s sausage soup, with easy-to-follow steps that’ll have your kitchen smelling incredible in no time. Whether you're familiar with Bertucci’s or trying it out for the first time, this recipe will give you that restaurant-quality depth in a comforting, homemade form.

What’s So Special About Bertucci’s Sausage Soup?

Bertucci’s sausage soup is a true Italian-American classic—a staple on the menu that stands out for its balanced flavors and simple ingredients. It's perfect if you’re after a soup that fills you up without feeling too heavy. This dish has its roots in traditional Italian cooking but offers a uniquely American twist, making it a favorite for anyone craving something comforting yet slightly rustic.

The soup starts with the rich, savory base of Italian sausage, which brings all the other flavors together. Combined with white beans, a classic for Italian soups, and a melody of fresh vegetables, the broth becomes rich and hearty. And let’s not forget the hit of Parmesan at the end, which adds a nutty, creamy depth that’s just unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Bertucci’s Sausage Soup Recipe

There’s so much to love about this Bertucci’s sausage soup recipe. It’s not just the taste—though that’s incredible. Here’s what makes it a keeper:

Easy Yet Impressive: This recipe uses simple ingredients but feels like a restaurant-level dish. It’s a great go-to for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Like any good soup, this one only gets better as the flavors meld together, so you can make it ahead and enjoy it throughout the week.
Customizable for All Tastes: You can play with the spice level, add extra veggies, or even swap in different types of beans to make it uniquely yours.

This is the kind of dish that warms you up from the inside out—ideal for a cozy night in, a Sunday family lunch, or even a casual dinner party where you want to impress without stress.

Key Ingredients in Bertucci’s Sausage Soup Recipe

For this soup to come together perfectly, each ingredient plays a role. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why these ingredients matter.

Italian Sausage: The heart of the soup. Italian sausage brings in that bold, savory flavor, with just the right amount of spice. If you want a milder soup, go with sweet Italian sausage; if you’re looking for a little heat, hot Italian sausage is perfect.
White Beans: These add heartiness and a creamy texture that complements the sausage. Cannellini beans are the go-to, but any white bean like Great Northern beans or Navy beans works well too.
Onion, Garlic, and Celery: The base of flavor. Together, they provide the foundation for the soup’s depth, making each spoonful rich and aromatic.
Red Bell Pepper and Carrots: For a touch of sweetness and color. These vegetables balance out the sausage’s savory profile and add an extra layer of flavor.
Zucchini: Optional, but it adds a soft texture and subtle taste that melds well with the other ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra vegetables.
Diced Tomatoes: The slight acidity from the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the sausage, adding a fresh, tangy note to the broth.
Chicken Broth: The backbone of the soup. It blends everything together, creating a base that’s both flavorful and light.
Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (optional) bring an earthy, aromatic quality to the soup. Fresh herbs for garnish at the end make it extra fragrant and visually appealing.
Parmesan Cheese: A final sprinkle of Parmesan ties everything together, adding a nutty, creamy flavor that enhances the overall taste.

When to Serve This Sausage Soup

One of the beautiful things about this Bertucci’s sausage soup recipe is its versatility. It’s perfect for:

Cold Weather Comfort: When temperatures drop, this soup is like a cozy sweater in a bowl.
Family Gatherings: Big pot, lots of servings, and everyone loves it—it’s ideal for feeding a crowd.
Meal Prep for Busy Weeks: Make a big batch and enjoy it over several days. It’s easy to reheat and even tastes better the next day.

And for anyone looking to add an Italian twist to their meals, this sausage soup brings the comforting essence of Italian-American cuisine without much fuss.

How to Make Bertucci’s Sausage Soup (With Pro Tips!)

Cooking this soup is straightforward, but a few simple tricks can elevate it to another level. Here’s how to make the most of each step:

Brown the Sausage Well
- Tip: Browning adds depth, so take your time. Allowing the sausage to get a good sear brings out the natural fats and flavors, which will blend into the soup base.
Sauté the Vegetables for Flavor
- Tip: Don’t rush this step. Cooking down the onions, garlic, and other veggies in the sausage drippings creates a rich foundation. You’re building flavor here, and patience pays off.
Deglaze with Diced Tomatoes
- Tip: Adding the tomatoes and scraping up any browned bits from the pot adds a subtle tang and captures all that goodness stuck to the bottom.
Simmer to Bring It All Together
- Tip: Give the soup enough time to simmer. About 20-30 minutes should do it, but the longer it sits, the more flavorful it gets. Add extra broth or water if it thickens too much.
Finish with Fresh Herbs and Parmesan
- Tip: Don’t skimp on these! Fresh basil or parsley at the end brightens up the dish, while Parmesan adds that final layer of umami richness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bertucci’s Sausage Soup

Cooking this Bertucci’s sausage soup recipe isn’t complicated, but there are a few nuances that make it truly shine. Follow these steps to ensure each ingredient is at its best and brings out those signature flavors.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating up about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the Sausage: Place the sausage in the pot, breaking it up as it browns. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to crumble it into small chunks. This texture gives the soup a hearty feel, with bits of sausage in every bite.
Let It Sear: Allow the sausage to cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get a good sear on one side. This caramelization adds depth and slightly sweet, smoky undertones.
Drain If Necessary: If your sausage is on the fattier side, you may need to drain off excess fat. But don’t drain it completely—leave a little behind for flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the sausage is browned and removed from the pot, it’s time to layer in the vegetables.

Add the Onion, Garlic, Celery, and Carrot: These are your core aromatics. Stir them around in the sausage drippings until softened, about 5-6 minutes. Cooking them in the sausage fat is a game-changer; it infuses them with flavor.
Add Red Bell Pepper and Zucchini (if using): This brings sweetness and a bit of crunch. Give them a quick toss in the pot, allowing the flavors to meld without overcooking.
Cook Until Softened: Let these vegetables soften but not turn mushy. This balance is key to a great texture that stands up well in the broth.

Pro Tip: At this stage, I sometimes sprinkle a pinch of salt to draw out moisture from the veggies and enhance their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Deglaze with Tomatoes

Deglazing adds a whole new layer to your broth.

Add the Diced Tomatoes: Pour in a can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. The acidity of the tomatoes lifts the rich flavors from the sausage and vegetables.
Scrape the Bottom of the Pot: Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits, known as "fond," are packed with flavor.
Stir Well: Combine the tomatoes with the veggies, allowing them to cook for another 2-3 minutes. This stage infuses everything with a bit of tomato sweetness.

Note: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can even add a tablespoon of tomato paste here. It gives the broth a denser, richer feel.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Broth

Now it’s time to bring in the broth and beans, which create the body of the soup.

Add the White Beans: Pour in your drained and rinsed white beans. They add creaminess and a slightly nutty flavor, balancing the sausage perfectly.
Pour in the Broth: Add 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of water (you can adjust for thickness as it cooks). Stir to combine everything.
Season with Herbs and Spices: Toss in dried oregano, basil, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. These seasonings give the broth that Italian essence we’re after.
Bring to a Simmer: Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup to a simmer. Once it starts bubbling gently, lower the heat and let it cook for 20-30 minutes.

Step 5: Let It Simmer and Adjust

Simmering lets all the flavors meld together.

Cover and Cook: Cover the pot partially, allowing steam to escape and thicken the soup naturally. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Taste and Adjust Seasonings: After about 20 minutes, give it a taste. Add salt and pepper as needed. Sometimes a dash more oregano or basil can enhance the overall aroma.
Thin Out If Necessary: If the soup thickens too much, add a little more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.

Tips for Serving and Storing

Serving Suggestions: This soup begs to be served with something crusty. A loaf of warm Italian bread or a few slices of focaccia make perfect accompaniments. And don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top just before serving. This final touch adds a nutty, salty layer that takes it to another level.

Make It Ahead: Like many soups, this Bertucci’s sausage soup gets better as it sits. Making it a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen, and it reheats beautifully.

Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Why This Bertucci’s Sausage Soup Recipe Is So Popular

This dish has a lot going for it—it's easy, filling, and tastes as if you’ve spent hours on it. The combination of sausage, beans, and vegetables makes it nutritionally balanced while keeping it deeply flavorful and satisfying. Plus, the Italian spices create a rustic, homemade taste that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in.

Variations to Try with Bertucci’s Sausage Soup

Spicy Kick with Italian Sausage
If you love a bit of spice, swap the mild Italian sausage for a spicy version. It brings just the right amount of heat, balancing beautifully with the creamy beans and sweet tomatoes. For extra warmth, sprinkle a pinch more of crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.
Add Leafy Greens
Stirring in some kale, spinach, or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking gives the soup an extra nutrient boost. Not only do greens add color, but they also add an earthy bitterness that balances the richness of the sausage. I recommend adding a few handfuls just a few minutes before serving, as they’ll wilt quickly in the hot broth.
Switching Up the Beans
Cannellini beans are classic, but this soup welcomes a variety. Chickpeas, navy beans, or even black beans bring a unique twist in flavor and texture. Each type has its personality—chickpeas are hearty and nutty, navy beans are ultra-creamy, and black beans add a touch of sweetness.
Try It with a Creamy Base
For a comforting twist, add a splash of heavy cream or even coconut milk at the end for a luscious, creamy finish. It doesn’t overpower the broth but adds an indulgent, velvety texture that’s especially satisfying in colder weather.
Vegetarian or Vegan Adaptation
To make this vegetarian, skip the sausage and add mushrooms instead. Sautéed mushrooms bring an umami depth that’s almost meaty in flavor. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and add a bit of smoked paprika to mimic that sausage smokiness.

Ingredient Swaps to Suit Your Pantry and Taste

Broth Options
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, beef broth works well, adding a bit more depth. Even water with a touch of bouillon can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind that broth quality really affects the final taste.
Fresh Herbs for Dried
If you’ve got fresh basil, oregano, or thyme, swap them for the dried herbs! Fresh herbs bring a bright, fragrant lift that dried herbs can’t quite match. Use about three times the amount of fresh as you would dried, and stir them in right before serving for maximum flavor.
Alternate Vegetables
This soup is super flexible—other veggies like potatoes, leeks, or even corn can easily be added. If you’re using potatoes, dice them small and add them with the broth to give them enough time to soften. Corn adds a hint of sweetness that works beautifully against the savory sausage.
Using Different Sausages
Traditional Italian sausage is fantastic, but you can experiment with other types. Chorizo adds a smoky, spicy flavor, while chicken sausage keeps it lighter. Even turkey sausage works well for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Making the Soup Even Better

Go Low and Slow for Flavor
While 20-30 minutes of simmering gives a great result, letting it go a bit longer intensifies the flavors. If you have time, a low simmer for about an hour deepens the broth and makes every spoonful more satisfying.
Enhance the Flavor with Wine
A splash of white wine added right after browning the sausage adds a subtle acidity and sweetness that complements the tomato base. Just cook it down for a few minutes before adding the broth to let the alcohol evaporate, leaving behind only the flavor.
Add a Parmesan Rind
This is my favorite “secret ingredient” in Italian soups. Adding a Parmesan rind to the pot while simmering brings a wonderful, savory note that gives the broth a creamy undertone. Just fish it out before serving!
Balancing Acidity
If you find the soup too tangy because of the tomatoes, stir in a teaspoon of sugar. It balances the acidity without making the soup sweet, just mellowing out the tartness of the tomatoes.
Finishing with Fresh Herbs and Lemon
Right before serving, a handful of fresh parsley or basil, along with a squeeze of lemon, brightens the entire dish. It’s like a quick refresh that wakes up all the flavors just before you dive in.

Pairing Suggestions for Bertucci’s Sausage Soup

Bread and Butter
A slice of warm, crusty bread with a smear of garlic butter or simple olive oil is perfection with this soup. It’s great for soaking up the last drops of broth from your bowl.
Light Salad
A simple green salad with a vinaigrette is a great counterbalance to the hearty, warm soup. The crisp, fresh greens contrast nicely, and the acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness.
A Glass of Wine
For those who enjoy wine, a light-bodied red like Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully. The subtle fruitiness enhances the soup’s flavors without overwhelming it.

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

Bertucci’s sausage soup has a way of feeling both hearty and homey—ideal for family dinners, meal preps, or special occasions. It’s simple enough for a weeknight yet comforting and delicious enough to serve for guests. Whether you’re tweaking it with your favorite ingredients or following the classic recipe to a T, this soup brings everyone to the table with its aroma and warmth.

Give it a go, and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of making this comforting classic at home.