When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty soup to satisfy your cravings. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that's perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Packed with savory Italian sausage, rich cream, and freshly grated Parmesan, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It's easy to prepare and comes together in under an hour. Read on for the full recipe, tips, and tricks to make the ultimate creamy sausage soup!
What Is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a rich, savory soup made with Italian sausage, vegetables, chicken broth, heavy cream, and lots of Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. The Italian sausage adds a robust flavor, while the Parmesan gives the soup a delicious, cheesy depth. This soup is incredibly satisfying and can be served as a full meal on its own or alongside a salad or crusty bread. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tweaked to your taste preferences and is perfect for both weeknight dinners and entertaining guests.
Ingredients List for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Here are the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy and delicious soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, depending on your preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for added nutrients)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Additional Ingredients List (Optional Add-ons)
If you want to boost the flavor or texture of the soup even further, consider adding these optional ingredients:
- 1 cup mushrooms (sliced, for added earthiness)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, for a more acidic, balanced flavor)
- 1 cup tortellini or small pasta (for a heartier meal)
- ¼ cup cream cheese (for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for added richness)
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is quite adaptable, so you can easily make substitutions or add variations to suit your dietary needs and taste preferences. Here are some ideas:
- Turkey or Chicken Sausage: For a leaner option, substitute Italian pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or add more hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta or tortellini and focus on the sausage and vegetables to make it keto-friendly.
- Add Potatoes: For a heartier texture, add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to the soup.
- Extra Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil can be added to enhance the flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is easy and doesn’t take much time. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a delicious soup in under an hour:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the sausage: Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery: In the same pot, add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Return the sausage to the pot: Add the browned sausage back into the pot and stir to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Parmesan
- Add the cream: After 20 minutes of simmering, stir in the heavy cream, making sure to mix thoroughly. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Add the Parmesan: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish the Soup
- Stir in the spinach: If you’re using spinach, stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt quickly, adding color and extra nutrients to the soup.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Cook Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then add garlic.
- Add chicken broth and return sausage to the pot.
- Simmer for 20 minutes to let the flavors develop.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan, followed by spinach.
- Garnish with parsley and serve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, avoid these common mistakes:
- Overcooking the sausage: Sausage can dry out if overcooked. Brown it just enough and let it finish cooking as it simmers in the soup.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so only sauté it for about 30 seconds. Burnt garlic can turn bitter and affect the flavor of the soup.
- Adding cheese too quickly: Stir in the Parmesan slowly to avoid clumping. Make sure the soup isn’t boiling when you add the cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate.
Serving and Presentation Tips
This creamy sausage soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are some serving ideas to enhance the experience:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth.
- Top with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
- Serve with a Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing pairs well with the richness of the soup.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the soup before serving to brighten up the flavors and cut through the richness.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
This soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Family Style: Serve the soup in a large pot or Dutch oven in the center of the table, allowing guests to ladle their own portions.
- Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Accompanied by Breadsticks: Pair the soup with breadsticks or crackers for an added crunch and to soak up the creamy broth.
Presentation Ideas for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley, basil, or even chives for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls.
- Layered Toppings: Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan shavings on top for a sophisticated touch.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe Tips
- Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-grated cheese. It melts better and adds a richer flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Spinach: If adding spinach, stir it in at the last minute so it stays vibrant and retains its texture.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or Parmesan to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Yes
, this soup freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Note that the texture of the cream may change slightly after freezing, but it will still taste delicious.
Can I use another type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a different flavor or to accommodate dietary restrictions.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup may be slightly less creamy. Adding cream cheese can help thicken the soup if needed.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Yes, adding small pasta like ditalini, orzo, or even tortellini can make the soup even heartier. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup right before serving to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect comfort food to warm you up on a cold day. The combination of savory sausage, creamy broth, and rich Parmesan cheese creates a deeply satisfying dish that’s full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight meal, serve it to guests, or make it ahead for meal prep, this soup is sure to be a hit. With its versatility and rich, creamy taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So why not give it a try? You won’t regret it!
PrintCreamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious, hearty dish filled with Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich, cheesy broth. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot soup that combines savory sausage, garlic, spinach, and potatoes, all simmered in a creamy Parmesan-infused broth. Ideal for a cozy dinner on cool evenings, this soup is packed with flavor and simple ingredients, making it a go-to family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it browns. Remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft.
- Stir in diced potatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked sausage.
- Add spinach, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness before serving.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
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