Introduction:
This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. The addition of Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth of flavor that elevates the entire soup. It’s simple to make, yet indulgent enough to serve as a meal on its own!
Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage (bulk, mild or spicy depending on preference)
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of spice)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (optional for added greens)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Remove excess grease if necessary and set the sausage aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Add potatoes and broth: Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Add cream and seasonings: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add spinach: If using spinach, stir it in at this point and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Description:
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food. The savory Italian sausage adds rich flavor, while the potatoes make it hearty and filling. The creaminess of the broth, combined with the salty Parmesan and aromatic herbs, creates a soup that is both indulgent and satisfying. The fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a healthy touch, though it’s optional if you prefer a more traditional version. This soup is perfect for cozy dinners and will quickly become a family favorite!
Tips:
For a thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup and then return it to the pot.
Sausage variations: Use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preference. You can also swap the sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
Vegetable variations: Add other vegetables like carrots or celery for more texture and flavor. Just be sure to cook them along with the onion to soften them.
Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to restore the creaminess.
Variations:
Spicy version: For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
Herbed version: Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for an additional depth of flavor. Be sure to remove any whole herbs before serving.
Add beans: For extra protein and texture, add a can of white beans like cannellini or northern beans.
Corrections:
Ensure the potatoes are tender: Make sure the potatoes are cooked through before adding the cream to avoid undercooked chunks in the soup.
Adjust creaminess: If you want a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream and use half-and-half or milk instead.
Enjoy!
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a warm, comforting meal that will satisfy your hunger and your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup is a winner. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete, delicious meal!