Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup 🧄🧀🍲


 

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Remove excess grease if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until softened.
  2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices).
  2. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  3. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Creaminess and Cheese

  1. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing well until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
  2. If using spinach or kale, add it now and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until wilted.

Step 5: Optional Pasta Add-In

  1. If adding pasta, cook it separately according to package instructions and stir it into the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
  3. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a luxurious texture.
  • Flavor-Packed: Italian sausage and herbs give the soup a bold, savory flavor.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite greens, vegetables, or pasta to make it your own.

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Sausage Choice: Use spicy sausage for a kick or mild sausage for a more kid-friendly dish.
  2. Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy consistency.
  3. Make It Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk for the heavy cream.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
  • Freeze: This soup freezes well, but leave out the cream until reheating to prevent curdling.

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve it as a main course or alongside a salad for a complete meal. Enjoy! 🧄🧀🍲✨