Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for chilly days. With a rich, creamy broth filled with savory Italian sausage, vegetables, and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, this soup will warm you from the inside out. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a family favorite in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious and velvety broth.
• Savory Sausage: Italian sausage infuses the soup with rich, savory flavors.
• Comforting: This soup is filling, hearty, and ideal for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• Italian sausage: Ground Italian sausage provides savory flavor and a bit of spice.
• Onion: Adds a slightly sweet and savory base flavor.
• Garlic: Provides aromatic depth to the soup.
• Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and color.
• Celery: Offers a crunchy texture and savory flavor.
• Chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing rich flavor.
• Heavy cream: Creates a creamy and smooth texture.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor and helps thicken the soup.
• Spinach: A handful of spinach adds color and nutrients.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and sausage.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Broth

1. Add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Sausage

1. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and the cooked sausage. Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add the Spinach

1. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Tips for Success

• Sauteeing the Vegetables: Make sure to sauté the vegetables until they are softened to bring out their sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts nicely into the soup and adds a vibrant green color.
• Customize the Sausage: You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference for heat.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Servings: 6
Calories: 380
Total Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 28g

FAQ

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage?
A1: Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner option, but you may want to add some extra seasoning to make up for the lack of flavor in the turkey.

Q2: Can I use frozen spinach?
A2: Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

Q3: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A3: Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove before serving.

Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q5: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A5: Yes, you can use other cheeses like Romano, Asiago, or Pecorino for a slightly different flavor, though Parmesan provides the best result for the creamy soup base.

Q6: How can I make this soup spicier?
A6: Add red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or a dash of hot sauce to give it an extra kick.

Q7: Is this soup gluten-free?
A7: Yes, this soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.

Q8: Can I add potatoes to this soup?
A8: Yes, diced potatoes would work well in this soup, adding an extra heartiness. Simply add them in with the broth and cook until tender.

Q9: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
A9: Yes, you can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the soup may not be as rich and creamy as when using heavy cream.

Q10: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A10: Yes, you can brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth, cream, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and add spinach at the end.

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a deliciously indulgent soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal. Full of flavor, rich in texture, and easy to make, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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