Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cozy evenings. Bursting with rich flavors from Italian sausage, aromatic spices, and a creamy Parmesan base, this soup is a comforting meal the whole family will enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious texture that feels indulgent.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and pasta, this soup is a complete meal in one bowl.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe comes together in less than an hour.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and save some for busy days when you need a comforting meal in minutes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Chicken broth
• Crushed tomatoes
• Heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh spinach
• Pasta (optional, such as small shells or orzo)

Directions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Simmer the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return the sausage to the pot and bring everything to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, ensuring the cheese melts fully into the broth.
5. Incorporate Spinach and Pasta: Add fresh spinach and cooked pasta, if using, and cook for 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Make it Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta or substitute with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Add More Veggies: Include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Herb Swap: Substitute fresh basil or parsley for Italian seasoning to change the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Let the soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this soup dairy-free?

Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast.

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute. Add extra Italian seasoning for flavor.

What type of pasta works best for this soup?

Small pasta shapes like shells, orzo, or ditalini work well. You can also use gluten-free pasta.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Is this soup spicy?

Not inherently, but it depends on the type of sausage used. Use mild sausage for no heat or spicy sausage for added kick.

Can I substitute fresh spinach with kale?

Yes, kale is a great alternative. Just make sure to cook it a little longer so it softens.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad pair wonderfully with this soup.

Can I make this soup thicker?

Yes, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) or reduce the broth slightly during cooking.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

While it adds depth to the soup, you can skip it or replace it with nutritional yeast for a similar umami flavor.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add the cream at the end of cooking and ensure the soup isn’t boiling when you stir it in.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you need a meal that feels like a warm hug. With its rich flavors, customizable ingredients, and ease of preparation, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Try it tonight and savor every spoonful!

Print