If you’re looking for a soup that’s both comforting and rich in flavor, then Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is exactly what you need. This recipe combines savory Italian sausage, rich cream, and the perfect blend of spices to create a hearty dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps that make this dish an irresistible favorite.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients
Before you start, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
Italian Sausage: The heart and soul of this soup. You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your preference.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous amount of freshly grated Parmesan brings that creamy, cheesy goodness that makes this soup so irresistible.
Vegetables: Onion, garlic, and spinach are key to balancing the richness of the soup. You can also include carrots or celery if you like.
Broth and Cream: Chicken broth forms the base, while heavy cream adds a velvety texture.
Spices and Herbs: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning (or fresh basil and oregano) are all you need to elevate the flavor.
Directions: How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Preparing the Sausage: Start by removing the sausage from its casing. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
Cooking the Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. You can also add carrots or celery at this point if you want more vegetables in your soup.
Combining the Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth, and bring it to a simmer. Once the broth is heated through, add the heavy cream, stirring gently until combined.
Adding the Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the soup, creating a rich, creamy texture.
Simmering and Final Touches: Return the cooked sausage to the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Stir in fresh spinach towards the end for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Soup
Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese: Pre-grated cheese works, but fresh Parmesan will give you a smoother, richer flavor.
Control the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less broth or let it simmer longer. For a thinner soup, add more broth or cream.
Making It Spicy or Mild: To adjust the heat level, choose mild sausage for a gentle flavor or opt for spicy sausage to add a kick. You can also add red pepper flakes.
Substitutes for Ingredients: If you want to make this dish lighter, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk. You can also try ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Healthier Modifications for a Lighter Soup
For a lighter version of this soup, consider making the following swaps:
Ground Turkey or Chicken Sausage: These leaner options reduce the fat content without sacrificing flavor.
Reduce the Cream and Cheese: If you’re looking to cut calories, you can reduce the amount of cream and Parmesan used, or substitute with a lower-fat alternative.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Flavor Profile: The combination of savory sausage, creamy broth, and sharp Parmesan makes every spoonful satisfying.
Comforting and Filling: This soup is perfect for any chilly day, providing comfort and warmth that fills you up without feeling too heavy.
Great for Any Season: While it’s especially cozy during the colder months, the lightness of the spinach and herbs makes it perfect for a year-round treat.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is more than just a meal – it’s a comforting experience that brings all the flavors of Italy to your bowl. From its rich and creamy texture to the savory sausage and fresh vegetables, every spoonful is a delight. The best part? It’s easy to make and adaptable to suit your tastes. So grab your ingredients, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup tonight!
FAQs
Can I use a different kind of sausage?
Yes, you can use other types of sausage, such as turkey or chicken sausage, or even vegetarian alternatives. Just keep in mind that the flavor may vary depending on the sausage you choose.How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover portions in an airtight container and keep them chilled in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little more broth if needed.Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Finish by adding the spinach and Parmesan in the last 15 minutes.What can I serve this soup with?
This soup is the perfect companion to crusty bread, a crisp salad, or a serving of roasted vegetables. A light dessert, like a fruit sorbet, also complements it nicely.How can I make this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, simply ensure that your sausage is gluten-free and use a gluten-free broth. Avoid adding any thickening agents that contain gluten.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This creamy, comforting soup is packed with savory flavors from Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening. The richness of the sausage combined with the smooth creaminess of the broth makes every bite a comforting experience.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on your preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
1 cup baby spinach (optional for a burst of freshness)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it starts simmering, stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Incorporate Parmesan and Seasonings: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, thickening slightly as it cooks.
- Finish the Soup: Add the spinach and stir it into the soup until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan.
Notes
- For a lighter version, swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, though the soup may be slightly less creamy.
- If you’d like a heartier dish, consider adding diced potatoes or small pasta shapes to the soup.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 50mg