Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, creamy soup, brimming with the savory goodness of Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and fresh vegetables. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in the mood for something warm and indulgent.
Who Will Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for anyone who enjoys hearty, homemade soups that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving a cozy meal, this soup checks all the boxes.
Why Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is Amazing
There’s so much to love about this soup. The creamy texture is luxurious without being overly heavy, while the combination of Italian sausage and Parmesan creates layers of savory flavor. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for special occasions.
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Pantry Staples:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Directions
Cooking the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Brown evenly and remove from the pot.
Building the Creamy Base:
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until fragrant and softened.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
Adding the Finishing Touches:
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the pot along with spinach or kale. Simmer until the greens are wilted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Prevent Curdling: Add the cream slowly and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer before stirring it in.
- Boost Flavor: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Consistency Matters: If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
- Meat Alternatives: Ground turkey or chicken sausage can be used instead of pork sausage.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a warm loaf of crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad. For a truly indulgent experience, pair it with a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling to maintain the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Chop vegetables and cook the sausage ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
- Freeze portions of the soup for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Approximate per serving:
Calories: 380
Protein: 18g
Carbs: 10g
Fat: 30g
For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and leaner sausage.
Food and Drink Pairings
This soup pairs beautifully with a side of cheesy garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad. For dessert, consider a light panna cotta or fresh berries with whipped cream.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. No matter the occasion, this dish is sure to please.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Warm, comforting, and brimming with flavor, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is everything you want in a bowl of soup. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for any time of year. Give it a try and share your experience! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes like this one.
FAQ
1. Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?
Yes, ground beef can be used, but it will have a different flavor profile.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup freezes well. Leave out the cream and add it after reheating for best results.
3. Can I make this soup spicy?
Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for a kick.
4. What other greens can I use?
Substitute spinach or kale with Swiss chard or collard greens.
5. How do I thicken the soup further?
Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) and simmer until thickened.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, creamy soup, brimming with the savory goodness of Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and fresh vegetables. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in the mood for something warm and indulgent.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 3 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Pantry Staples:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cooking the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Brown evenly and remove from the pot.
Building the Creamy Base:
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until fragrant and softened.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for extra flavor.
Adding the Finishing Touches:
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Add the cooked sausage back to the pot along with spinach or kale. Simmer until the greens are wilted.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Prevent Curdling: Add the cream slowly and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer before stirring it in.
- Boost Flavor: Use freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Consistency Matters: If the soup feels too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes