Delicious & Quick 21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup: Low Carb & Comforting
We all know life can get busy, and sometimes, it throws us a curveball – like getting sick. As a former teacher, I once thought calling in sick was the biggest challenge. The struggle of creating last-minute sub plans at 5 AM often seemed worse than just toughing it out. But now, as a stay-at-home mom, I’ve realized a new truth: being sick at home is an entirely different beast.
Fever? Sore throat? Persistent cough? None of it matters. When you’re a mom at home, there’s no substitute service to call. The kids still need to be fed, the laundry still piles up, and the daily demands don’t magically disappear. It’s truly a “suck it up” situation, day in and day out.
That’s precisely what’s been happening in my world. How about yours? Have you managed to dodge the infamous January “germfest” that seems to sweep through every household? While I’ve been drowning myself in endless cups of tea and my trusty Shakeology, my main coping mechanism has been making soup – nearly every day. There’s just something incredibly restorative and comforting about a warm bowl of soup, whether you’re battling a lingering cold or just need a delicious, easy meal after a long day.
So, when I was contemplating dinner and sausage and peppers came to mind, I knew exactly what needed to happen. This wasn’t just going to be any dinner; it was going to be a nourishing, soul-soothing, and incredibly simple meal: 21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup.
Why This 21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup is Your New Go-To
This 21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights, a comforting embrace when you’re under the weather, and a fantastic way to stick to your healthy eating goals. Here’s why this low-carb soup is about to become a staple in your kitchen:
Perfectly Aligned with 21 Day Fix Principles
For those following the 21 Day Fix program, finding recipes that are both delicious and compliant can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. This healthy soup recipe effortlessly fits into your plan, helping you hit your 21 Day Fix container counts with ease. Each serving is packed with lean protein from the turkey sausage (red container) and a generous portion of colorful bell peppers and onions (green container). This makes it an ideal choice for a balanced and satisfying meal without any guesswork. The emphasis on whole, unprocessed ingredients means you’re fueling your body with exactly what it needs, keeping you on track for your fitness goals. Plus, with the included nutrition information, you can easily track your macros.
A Deliciously Low-Carb Option
If you’re looking for a low-carb meal idea, this soup delivers without sacrificing flavor. By focusing on lean protein and abundant vegetables, we keep the carbohydrate content down, making it perfect for anyone watching their carb intake or simply aiming for a lighter, healthier meal. The absence of heavy starches or grains means you get a satisfying meal that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. It’s a smart choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and supporting weight management goals.
Quick, Easy, and Ready in Under 30 Minutes
One of the biggest advantages of this quick dinner recipe is its speed. From start to finish, you can have a piping hot bowl of this incredible soup on your table in 30 minutes or less. This makes it an absolute winner for those hectic weeknights when time is of the essence but you still want a wholesome, homemade meal. The steps are straightforward, requiring minimal culinary expertise, making it accessible even for novice cooks. Seriously, people, have I ever steered you wrong? This recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Flavor-Packed Comfort Food
Beyond its health benefits and ease, this sausage and pepper soup is just plain delicious. The combination of savory spicy Italian turkey sausage, sweet bell peppers, fragrant onions, and aromatic garlic, all simmering in a rich chicken broth, creates a symphony of flavors. It’s hearty enough to be a meal on its own, yet light enough to feel good about. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up. The vibrant colors also make it an inviting dish that appeals to both taste buds and eyes.
Spotlight on Key Ingredients
The beauty of this 21 Day Fix soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients:
- Spicy Italian Turkey Sausage: This is the star protein. Using turkey sausage keeps the fat content lower than traditional pork sausage, aligning perfectly with healthy eating goals. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can easily substitute sweet Italian turkey sausage. Can’t find turkey or chicken sausage at your grocery store? No problem! You can easily make your own using this homemade Italian sausage recipe with ground chicken or turkey. This flexibility ensures everyone can enjoy this fantastic soup.
- Onions and Bell Peppers: These classic components of sausage and peppers provide a wonderful base of flavor and a wealth of nutrients. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, while onions add a sweet and pungent depth. Feel free to use a mix of different colored bell peppers for an even more vibrant and nutrient-dense soup.
- Garlic: Essential for that aromatic, savory kick that elevates any dish. Freshly minced garlic makes a big difference here!
- Petite Diced Tomatoes: These add a touch of acidity and sweetness, rounding out the flavor profile and contributing to the “stuffed pepper” feel of the soup. They also bring beneficial lycopene.
- Low Sodium Organic Chicken Broth or Stock: The liquid base of our soup. Opting for low sodium helps control the overall salt content, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. Organic options are always a good choice for quality.
- Fresh Basil: A finishing touch that adds a burst of freshness and a lovely herbaceous note. While fresh is best, dried basil can be used in a pinch (use about 1/3 the amount of fresh).
- Parmesan Cheese (Optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end adds a delightful savory, umami flavor. Remember to measure your blue container if you’re adding this for your 21 Day Fix plan.
Tips for Success and Delicious Variations
Making this easy sausage and pepper soup is incredibly straightforward, but a few tips can ensure maximum deliciousness:
- Sautéing Veggies: Don’t rush this step. Sautéing the onions and bell peppers over medium-low heat until tender allows their natural sweetness to develop, creating a rich flavor base for your soup.
- Browning Sausage: Ensure your turkey sausage is fully cooked and nicely browned before adding the liquids. This step adds depth and texture to the soup. If using bulk sausage, break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Fresh Herbs: While dried basil works, fresh basil truly elevates the soup. Stir it in just before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Adjusting Spice: If you love heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic. If using sweet Italian sausage, this is a great way to introduce a mild kick.
- Make Ahead & Meal Prep: This soup is fantastic for meal prepping! It reheats beautifully and the flavors tend to meld even more overnight. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Serving Suggestions: While delicious on its own, you can serve this soup with a side of cauliflower rice for an even more substantial low-carb meal, or a small piece of whole-grain crusty bread if your plan allows.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like spinach (stir in at the very end until wilted), zucchini, or even a handful of chopped mushrooms for extra nutrients and bulk.
This soup is not just a quick fix; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly extraordinary and nourishing. It’s the perfect balance of flavor, health, and convenience.
21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup
Pin Recipe
Ingredients
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 1 lb spicy Italian turkey sausage or sub sweet
- 1 onion diced
- 2 bell peppers diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 14 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low sodium organic chicken broth or stock
- Fresh basil you can sub dried
- Parmesan cheese for topping if desired
Instructions
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Spray a large pot with olive oil spray and sautee onions and peppers over medium-low heat until tender – about ten minutes
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Add garlic and sautee for another minute or two
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Add turkey sausage without the casing to the pan and cook through
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Once turkey is cooked, add in tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over high heat, then lower to a simmer.
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Add fresh basil just before serving and top with Parmesan cheese, if desired!
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts: A Recipe for Wellness and Convenience
In a world where both time and health are precious commodities, this 21 Day Fix Sausage and Pepper Soup offers a fantastic solution. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a strategy for maintaining your wellness goals without sacrificing flavor or succumbing to the temptation of unhealthy takeout. Whether you’re managing a busy household, recovering from a seasonal bug, or simply seeking a delicious and healthy weeknight meal, this soup ticks all the boxes.
Its vibrant colors, hearty texture, and comforting warmth make it a dish that satisfies on multiple levels. The lean protein from the turkey sausage, coupled with the nutrient-rich bell peppers and savory broth, creates a meal that is both filling and nourishing. And because it’s so easy to prepare, you’ll have more time to focus on what truly matters, whether that’s family, relaxation, or just enjoying a quiet moment.
So, go ahead and give this incredible low-carb sausage and pepper soup a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s quick, it’s easy, it’s low carb, and it’s so darn delicious. It’s the perfect addition to your 21 Day Fix meal plan, and a comforting classic for any occasion. Enjoy!