Hearty Sausage and Tomato Rice Soup

Hearty Sausage and Tomato Rice Soup is a deeply flavorful, one-pot meal made with smoky sausage, aromatic herbs, and tender rice simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s rustic, nourishing, and perfect for chilly days or busy evenings when you crave something simple yet satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This variation of sausage and rice soup stands out for its bold tomato flavor and its thick, stew-like texture. Each bite offers tender grains of rice, plump roasted tomatoes, and smoky sausage with golden caramelized edges. It’s incredibly easy to make and uses pantry-friendly ingredients. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to make it spicier, creamier, or even vegetarian with a few quick swaps.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
• Cooked white rice
• Canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Tomato paste
• Olive oil
• Dried oregano
• Dried basil or thyme
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)

directions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and brown them on both sides until crisp. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add Tomato Base: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Then pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf.
4. Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and the broth to thicken slightly.
5. Add Rice and Sausage: Stir in the cooked rice and reserved sausage. Simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes until heated through.
6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or basil.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or andouille and increase red pepper flakes.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy finish.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
• Add Greens: Spinach or kale can be added during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
• Use Uncooked Rice: If you prefer, simmer raw rice in the broth for 20–25 minutes (add extra liquid as needed).

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the soup as the rice will absorb liquid.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, cooked brown rice adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor. Make sure it is fully cooked before adding to the soup.

Will the rice get mushy over time?

Yes, rice softens as it sits in the soup. For best results, store it separately and combine when reheating.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, though canned fire-roasted tomatoes offer more depth of flavor. Use peeled, chopped fresh tomatoes if preferred.

What kind of sausage should I use?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille are all excellent choices. You can also use mild or spicy Italian sausage.

How can I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered for longer, or mash a few spoonfuls of rice into the broth for a thicker consistency.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté sausage and aromatics first, then combine everything (except cooked rice) in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours and add rice near the end.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes. For best results, freeze the soup without the rice and add it fresh when serving.

What herbs work well in this soup?

Oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf are classic. Add fresh herbs at the end for brightness.

Can I make it lower in sodium?

Use low-sodium broth and watch the salt content of the sausage and tomatoes.

Can I add beans?

Yes, white beans or kidney beans are great additions to increase protein and heartiness.

Conclusion

Hearty Sausage and Tomato Rice Soup is a soul-warming dish that brings bold flavors and rustic charm to your table. With minimal prep and rich, satisfying results, it’s the perfect one-pot meal for busy nights or lazy weekends. Pair it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a comforting, complete meal the whole family will enjoy.

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