If you’ve ever wanted a big, hearty Italian soup that feels like it came from a real family kitchen, this one’s for you.
Dom DeLuise was known for loving food as much as he loved making people laugh, and his approach to cooking was always warm and generous.
I came across this recipe and knew I had to try it at home. This post walks you through how to make a rich, filling soup that brings a little of that same cozy energy to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Dom DeLuise style Italian soup is rich, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. It combines vegetables, protein, and herbs into a flavorful broth that feels both wholesome and indulgent. It’s a complete meal in one bowl.
It’s also very family-friendly. The flavors are mild yet comforting, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Serves: 6 people
This recipe makes a generous pot of soup, perfect for feeding a family or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. It’s ideal for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
What You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 cup spinach or kale (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Pro Tips
Start by sautéing the vegetables before adding liquids. This helps build a deeper flavor base for the soup. It’s a simple step that adds a lot of richness.
Use a good-quality broth for the best results. Since it forms the base of the soup, it greatly impacts the final flavor. Homemade or low-sodium options work well.
Don’t overcook the pasta. Add it toward the end of cooking to keep it from becoming too soft. This helps maintain a good texture.
Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together. A longer simmer enhances the overall taste. Patience pays off.
Add leafy greens like spinach or kale at the end for freshness and color. They cook quickly and add a nice balance to the dish.
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
Substitutions and Variations
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef or sausage for a lighter option. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add beans like cannellini or kidney beans. This keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
Swap the pasta for rice or leave it out entirely for a lower-carb option. The soup will still be flavorful and filling.
Add zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra vegetables. This enhances both nutrition and texture.
For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes. This gives the soup a bit of a kick.
Make Ahead Tips
This Dom DeLuise style Italian soup is one of those dishes that actually gets better with time, making it perfect for preparing ahead. You can make the entire soup (minus the pasta) up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to develop, resulting in an even richer and more satisfying bowl.
If you’re planning to store leftovers, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming overly soft or absorbing too much broth. It’s a small step that keeps the texture just right.
You can also chop all your vegetables ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes the cooking process quicker and more convenient when you’re ready to prepare the soup.
For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Just leave out the pasta and greens before freezing, then add them fresh when reheating. It’s a great option for meal prep or busy weeks.
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Allow it to warm until it shimmers slightly. This prepares the base for sautéing.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This builds a rich, savory base.
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Stir in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. This step adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
Step 4: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it. This enhances the aroma.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. This creates the base of the soup.
Step 6: Season the Soup
Add salt, black pepper, oregano, and basil. Stir to combine and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. The flavors begin to develop here.
Step 7: Add Pasta and Greens
Stir in the pasta and cook until tender. Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes so it wilts gently into the soup.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm and enjoy.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty Italian soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides that enhance the overall experience. A slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth and soaking up every last bit of flavor.
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory soup. The crisp textures and bright flavors help balance the richness of the dish.
You can also serve this soup with a side of roasted vegetables for added variety. Vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers complement the flavors nicely and add extra nutrition.
For a more indulgent meal, pair it with a simple pasta dish or a small sandwich. This creates a cozy, restaurant-style dinner right at home.
Leftovers and Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Allow it to cool completely before storing. This helps preserve its flavor and texture.
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat. You may need to add a bit of broth or water if the pasta has absorbed some of the liquid.
If freezing, store the soup without pasta for best results. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Avoid reheating the soup multiple times, as this can affect the texture and flavor. Reheat only the portion you plan to serve.
For best quality, enjoy the soup within a few days. The flavors will continue to deepen, making it even more delicious.
Nutrition and Benefits
- This soup provides a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Tomatoes are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to overall health.
- Adding leafy greens like spinach increases fiber and nutrient content.
- Making this soup at home allows you to control ingredients and adjust seasoning to your preference.
- Using lean meat or adding more vegetables can make the dish even healthier.
Recipe FAQ
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the meat and add beans like cannellini or kidney beans. It will still be hearty and flavorful.
What type of pasta works best?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow, or small shells work best. They fit well in each spoonful.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. The flavors improve as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta separately or add it just before serving. This helps maintain its texture.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely. Zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers all work well. Customize based on what you have.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting, making it great for kids. You can adjust seasoning if needed.
How do I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. This adds a nice kick without overpowering the soup.
A Cozy Bowl You’ll Come Back To Again and Again
Once you make this, I think it’ll find a regular spot in your meal rotation. It’s the kind of soup that gets even better the next day, so leftovers are never a bad thing.
If you try it out, feel free to leave a comment and tell me how it went. I’d love to know if you made any changes that worked out well for you.
