Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a satisfying one-pot meal. Packed with Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich creamy broth, this soup is as delicious as it is easy to prepare. Serve it with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy dinner!

What Is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

This Italian-inspired soup combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with a creamy broth made with Parmesan cheese and heavy cream. Diced potatoes (or pasta) add heartiness, while fresh spinach or kale brings a burst of color and nutrition. The result is a rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple steps and one pot for easy cleanup.
• Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, Parmesan, and spices creates a savory and irresistible flavor.
• Versatile: Can be customized with pasta or potatoes and your choice of greens.
• Comforting: Perfect for cold days or when you need a warm, satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups baby spinach or kale
• 2 cups diced potatoes (or substitute with pasta)
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Remove sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings.
2. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.

Building the Soup

3. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add diced potatoes (or pasta), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender (or pasta is cooked to your liking).

Finishing Touches

5. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the cheese to melt into the soup.
6. Add the spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.

Serving

8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with warm, crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this soup with freshly baked bread, like a French baguette or sourdough loaf.
• Add a side salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• For an extra indulgence, serve with garlic breadsticks or cheesy focaccia.

Storing and Freezing

Storage Tips

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from curdling.

Freezing Instructions

• Freeze the soup without the heavy cream and spinach/kale to avoid texture changes.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, reheat, and add cream and greens just before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb: Substitute potatoes or pasta with cauliflower florets.
• Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or stick to potatoes.
• Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more variety.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Try chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version, or experiment with flavored sausages for a twist.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch for a lighter option.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Make the soup a day in advance, but add the cream and greens just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect comfort food, offering a rich and satisfying flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just want a cozy meal, this soup is sure to impress. Try it today and let us know how it turns out!

Print