Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that delivers bold flavors in every spoonful. Packed with savory Italian sausage, hearty vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan-infused broth, this soup is both rich and satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a hearty, home-cooked meal. With its vibrant colors, aromatic herbs, and creamy texture, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s deceptively easy to make. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels indulgent yet is approachable enough for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy, cheesy broth and hearty ingredients make this soup the ultimate comfort food.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this is a great option for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: Italian sausage adds a savory, spiced kick that elevates every bite.
- Customizable: Add or swap vegetables, adjust the spice level, or use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen with time, making leftovers even better.
Preparation Time and Servings:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 30 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed if necessary)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, roughly chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or crusty bread
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits (this adds flavor to the soup). Return the browned sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add the Greens
Stir in the spinach (or kale) and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Ingredient Background
Italian Sausage
Italian sausage is the backbone of this soup, providing rich, savory flavor and a hint of spice. Mild sausage works well for a family-friendly option, while hot sausage adds extra heat and depth.
Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds nutty, salty richness to the broth, creating the signature creamy texture and flavor of the soup. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best results, as pre-grated varieties often don’t melt smoothly.
Vegetables
The classic combination of onion, carrot, and celery provides a flavorful base for the soup, while spinach or kale adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream creates a luxurious, velvety broth that ties all the flavors together. For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk.
Technique Tips
- Break Up the Sausage: Use a wooden spoon or spatula to crumble the sausage into small pieces as it cooks for an even texture throughout the soup.
- Don’t Boil the Cream: Once you add the heavy cream, keep the heat low to prevent curdling.
- Deglaze the Pot: Scrape up the browned bits after cooking the sausage—they add incredible depth of flavor to the soup.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
- Bread Bowl: Serve the soup in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for a rustic, hearty presentation.
- Over Pasta: Ladle the soup over cooked pasta like tortellini, rigatoni, or orecchiette for a creamy pasta dish.
- As a Sauce: Reduce the broth slightly to create a thick, creamy sauce for pouring over roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
Additional Tips for Success
- Layer the Flavors: Add the spices while sautéing the vegetables to enhance their aroma and ensure even distribution throughout the soup.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the broth before adding the cream.
- Add the Greens Last: Stir in the spinach or kale just before serving to preserve its vibrant color and texture.
Recipe Variations
- Low-Carb Version: Replace the carrots and celery with diced zucchini or cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
- Cheesy Tortellini Soup: Add cheese-stuffed tortellini for a heartier meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Freezing and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally.
- Freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the cream may separate slightly upon reheating, but stirring it well will help bring it back together.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Use Turkey Sausage: Replace pork sausage with lean turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Lighter Cream: Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk to reduce the fat content.
- Increase Vegetables: Add extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more nutrients and flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Events
- Family Dinner: Serve with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal.
- Dinner Party Starter: Present the soup in small bowls or ramekins as a rich, flavorful appetizer.
- Holiday Gathering: Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley for a festive touch, and serve alongside roasted vegetables or a charcuterie board.
Special Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Ensures even cooking and enough space for the soup to simmer.
- Microplane or Fine Grater: Perfect for grating Parmesan cheese finely so it melts seamlessly into the broth.
- Ladle: Essential for serving the soup neatly into bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, pre-cooked sausage can be used. Slice it into rounds or dice it, then sauté briefly before adding to the soup to warm it through.
2. What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, though the soup will be slightly less rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream.
3. Can I add potatoes to this soup?
Absolutely! Diced potatoes make a great addition and add heartiness. Simmer them in the broth until tender before adding the cream.
4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! The soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your sausage, broth, and Parmesan cheese are certified gluten-free.
5. Can I add pasta to the soup?
Yes, small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or mini shells work well. Cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
6. How do I prevent the Parmesan from clumping?
Use freshly grated Parmesan and stir it into the soup over low heat to ensure it melts smoothly.
7. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup reheats beautifully. Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
8. What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad are all excellent accompaniments.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and a velvety broth in one satisfying dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup is sure to please. With its quick preparation, versatile ingredients, and endless customizations, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your pot, some Parmesan, and Italian sausage, and get ready to create a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed if necessary)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, roughly chopped)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or crusty bread
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits (this adds flavor to the soup). Return the browned sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Add the Greens
Stir in the spinach (or kale) and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Fat: 34g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g