This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining the richness of Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy, cheesy broth. Packed with spinach and a touch of spice, this soup is both satisfying and easy to make. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or when you’re looking for something flavorful and filling.
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups ditalini pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions: How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
1. Cook the Italian Sausage
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Pasta
- Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering broth and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Add the Cream and Spinach
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the roughly chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and well incorporated into the soup.
6. Stir in the Parmesan Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup, making the broth rich and creamy.
7. Return the Sausage
- Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Spicier Version: If you prefer a bit more heat, use hot Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Pasta: Ditalini is great for this soup, but you can use other small pasta shapes like orzo, mini shells, or macaroni.
- Fresh Parmesan: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly into the soup.
Recipe Variations: How to Customize Your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Vegetarian Version
- Substitute the Italian sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles or omit the sausage entirely for a veggie-packed soup. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth.
Gluten-Free Option
- Use gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether for a gluten-free version. Be sure to check the broth for gluten content.
Extra Veggies
- Add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for a heartier, more nutrient-packed soup.
Keto-Friendly Version
- Skip the pasta and add more spinach or other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or mushrooms. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for a thicker, creamier consistency.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to thin it out, as the pasta may absorb some of the liquid.
Q2: Can I freeze this soup?
While the soup can be frozen, the pasta and dairy may change texture once thawed. If you plan to freeze the soup, consider omitting the pasta and cream until you’re ready to serve. Add them fresh after reheating.
Q3: What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. It’s also delicious served with parmesan crisps on top.
Q4: Can I use a different kind of sausage?
Yes, you can use hot Italian sausage for a spicier version or substitute with chicken sausage for a lighter option.
A Rich, Comforting Soup Packed with Flavor
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect combination of savory sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy broth. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to warm you up on cold days and satisfy your cravings for something creamy and delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or for a special occasion, this soup is bound to be a hit with family and friends
