Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a rich, comforting soup filled with sausage, vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan broth. Perfect for chilly days!

Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a heartwarming, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in. This soup combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with a creamy, Parmesan-infused broth that’s rich, thick, and filled with aromatic herbs and vegetables. It’s the ideal comfort food, providing a filling and satisfying meal in every spoonful. Plus, it’s easy to make in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.

With ingredients like hearty Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and tangy Parmesan cheese, this soup has a rich flavor profile that will remind you of Italian comfort food. Perfect as a starter or a main course, this creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s a go-to recipe that’s easy enough for weeknights but tastes like it took all day to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Cook the aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer: Add Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until wilted.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.

How to Prepare

This recipe is quick and easy. Start by browning the sausage to bring out its rich flavors. Add the broth and tomatoes to create a savory base, and then let the soup simmer to enhance the flavors. Finish with cream, Parmesan, and fresh spinach for a creamy, comforting touch. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves 4-6 people.

FAQs

1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, but it will make the soup thinner. For a richer texture, you can mix milk with a little cornstarch to thicken it.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup reheats well. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
3. Can I substitute the spinach?
   Yes, kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives if you want a heartier green.
4. What type of Parmesan should I use?
   Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor, but pre-grated will work too.
5. Can I add pasta?
   Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo work well and make it extra filling. Just cook the pasta separately and add it at the end.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect meal to warm up on a chilly evening. Its combination of rich Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan broth makes it a delicious and filling soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. This recipe is simple enough for a weeknight but has enough depth to impress family and friends. Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal that’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy each warm, flavorful spoonful and make this cozy soup a new favorite in your household!