Hearty Italian Soup

This recipe is from my mom and is very yummy! Add whatever seasonings or additional vegetables (such as potatoes or celery, etc.) that you like.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1  lb Italian sausage or 1  lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped green pepper
• 1⁄2 cup  chopped onion
• 28  ounces diced tomatoes
• 2  cups water
• 8  ounces tomato sauce
• 3  chicken bouillon cubes or 3  beef bouillon cubes
• 15  ounces garbanzo beans or 15  ounces kidney beans, rinsed
• 1⁄2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3⁄4 cup  small macaroni noodles or 3⁄4 cup shell macaroni
•  shredded cheese (optional)
•  salt
•  pepper
•  italian seasoning

Directions

1. In a large saucepan or dutch oven, brown sausage, onions and peppers. Drain off any liquid.
2. Add remaining ingredients (except macaroni and cheese), cover and simmer for 15-30 minutes.
3. Add macaroni and cook 10-12 minutes.
4. To serve, top with shredded cheese, if desired.