Description
This hearty and flavorful soup is the ultimate comfort food! Loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan-infused broth, it’s perfect for chilly nights. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Soup Base:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale
- 1 medium potato or 1 cup diced zucchini (optional for a heartier soup)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned, then remove from the pot and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. - Add Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. - Simmer and Add Cream:
Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Optional Add-Ins:
If using spinach, kale, or additional vegetables, stir them in and cook until tender, about 5 more minutes. - Season and Serve:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the sausage and broth are gluten-free.
- For a lower-carb version, skip the optional potatoes and use zucchini or cauliflower.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.