Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

Craving a comforting bowl of creamy, flavorful soup that’s perfect for chilly nights or family dinners? Look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup recipe! Packed with savory sausage, rich Parmesan, and hearty vegetables, this dish is not only easy to make but also full of satisfying flavors. Whether you're preparing a cozy meal for yourself or cooking for a crowd, this recipe will quickly become a favorite. Read on to learn all the steps, tips, and variations to make this dish your own.

this Recipe

What is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a savory and rich soup made from Italian sausage, creamy broth, and sharp Parmesan cheese. This soup is enhanced with fresh vegetables like spinach, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, adding texture and flavor. With its deep, bold taste from the sausage and the cheesy, silky smooth broth, this soup is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even special occasions.

Ingredients List for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

To make a delicious Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Additional Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

For those who want to add a little extra to this already delectable recipe, here are some optional ingredients you can incorporate for extra flavor and heartiness:

• ½ cup chopped carrots for extra sweetness
• ½ cup celery, sliced for added crunch
• ½ teaspoon fennel seeds to enhance the Italian sausage flavor
• 1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or orzo work best)
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped for added depth
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
• Grated mozzarella or provolone for an extra cheesy finish

Substitutions and Variations

Whether you’re missing an ingredient or looking to make the soup healthier or more personalized, here are some great substitutions and variations:

• Sausage substitution: If you're not a fan of pork sausage, you can easily substitute with chicken or turkey sausage. For a vegetarian version, opt for plant-based sausage or leave out the meat entirely and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for texture.
• Dairy-free version: To make this soup dairy-free, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.
• Low-carb version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets to cut down on carbohydrates while still keeping the soup hearty.
• Spice it up: If you prefer a spicier version, use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra crushed red pepper flakes.
• More veggies: Feel free to add in extra vegetables like bell peppers, kale, or zucchini to boost the nutrition and bulk up the soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the steps so you can have this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup ready in no time:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Vegetables and Spices: Toss in the diced tomatoes (with juice), diced potatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4. Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Stir in the Cream: Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the heavy cream and cooked sausage. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Add Spinach and Parmesan: Finally, add the chopped spinach and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
7. Season to Taste: Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle in a little more crushed red pepper flakes.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.

How to Cook Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

To ensure your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these essential tips:

1. Use high-quality sausage: The Italian sausage is the star of the show, so choose a high-quality one that’s full of flavor. You can choose between sweet, mild, or spicy, depending on your taste.
2. Don’t rush the sauté: Taking the time to properly brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic will add depth of flavor to your soup. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot when you add the broth.
3. Add cheese slowly: When adding the Parmesan, do so slowly and stir well to prevent clumping. This will ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup for that creamy texture.
4. Watch the cream: Once you add the cream, be careful not to boil the soup, as this can cause the cream to curdle. Keep the heat on a gentle simmer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To prevent any mishaps while making your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Skipping the browning process: Browning the sausage adds flavor and texture, so don’t skip this step.
• Boiling the cream: High heat can cause the cream to separate, so maintain a gentle simmer once it’s added.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Be sure to monitor the potatoes and other vegetables to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Adding Parmesan too fast: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Always stir slowly and incorporate it gradually.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways depending on the occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these tips will help you elevate your soup:

• Crusty bread: Serve with warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to dip into the creamy broth.
• Salad on the side: A fresh, simple side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the soup.
• Serve in a bread bowl: For a special touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

• Portion sizes: Serve in small bowls for an appetizer, or in larger portions for a main course. You can pair it with a salad or some grilled vegetables for a more complete meal.
• Garnish ideas: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, and a few fresh basil leaves for color and added flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Make this dish stand out visually with these simple presentation tips:

• Serve in rustic bowls: Use rustic, ceramic bowls to create a homely and comforting vibe.
• Cheese topping: Grate fresh Parmesan on top and let it melt slightly before serving.
• Herb sprig: Add a small sprig of fresh basil or parsley to each bowl for a vibrant, fresh garnish.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe Tips

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid separating the cream.
• Freezing: To freeze, omit the cream and cheese before freezing. Add them when reheating for the best texture.
• Adjust consistency: If the soup is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth to thin it out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic on the stovetop first, then transfer everything except the cream, spinach, and cheese to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream, spinach, and Parmesan just before serving.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Absolutely! If you have pre-cooked sausage, simply slice or crumble it and add it to the soup when you add the broth.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup a day in advance. The flavors will deepen overnight. Just reheat it gently and add a splash of extra broth if needed.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect comforting meal that is both hearty and delicious. With its combination of rich sausage, creamy broth, and flavorful vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy night in or preparing it for a dinner party, this recipe will always hit the spot. So go ahead, grab your ingredients, and start cooking! Your new favorite soup is just a few steps away.

Print