Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a warm, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting, flavorful meal. Packed with Italian sausage, creamy broth, fresh spinach, and tangy Parmesan cheese, this soup is a delightful combination of richness and freshness. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to please.

Overview of the Recipe

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup brings together bold and comforting flavors with ease. The savory Italian sausage serves as the star ingredient, while garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning enhance its depth. A touch of cream and Parmesan cheese makes the soup velvety and indulgent. Spinach adds a pop of color and freshness, making it a well-balanced dish. Simple to prepare, it’s a recipe that feels fancy but is wonderfully approachable.

History and Origin

Italian-inspired soups are known for their emphasis on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Creamy soups with sausage often trace their roots to traditional Tuscan recipes, which use local ingredients like sausage, greens, and cheeses to create hearty dishes. The inclusion of Parmesan cheese highlights the Italian love for sharp, aged cheeses, while the addition of cream gives the soup a luxurious texture. This recipe is a modern adaptation, tailored for ease while maintaining its Italian flair.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy and savory soup:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for a thicker consistency
• Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Sausage: Add the Italian sausage. Use a spoon to break it into small pieces while cooking until browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, remove it carefully with a spoon or ladle.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well and cook until the onion turns translucent, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Broth

4. Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (along with their juices).
5. Simmer: Stir the mixture and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Creaminess

6. Incorporate Dairy: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup.
7. Seasoning: Add the Italian seasoning and stir. Let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Spinach

8. Add Greens: Stir in the baby spinach leaves. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and incorporates into the soup.

Step 6: Final Touches

9. Taste and Adjust: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Optional Thickening: For a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch and water in a small bowl, then stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes until it thickens.

Serving

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve it immediately. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping to make the meal even more satisfying. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

• Side Options: Serve with a side salad, such as a classic Caesar salad or a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Bread Choices: Crusty baguette, focaccia, or garlic bread complement the creamy soup beautifully.
• Beverages: Pair with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime, or serve with a warm herbal tea for a cozy meal.

Variations of the Recipe

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the tomatoes and use extra spinach or kale for a thicker, vegetable-heavy soup.
• Additional Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to enhance the heat.

Health Benefits Notes

• Rich in Protein: The Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese provide ample protein, making this soup satisfying and nourishing.
• Packed with Vitamins: Spinach is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and magnesium.
• Balanced Fats: While creamy, the soup can be adjusted to be lighter by using half-and-half or reduced-fat cream.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

This soup can be frozen, but the texture of the cream may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. Can I use a different cheese?

Parmesan is recommended for its sharp flavor, but you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano.

4. What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

Combine equal parts of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary to make a homemade version.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile and delicious dish that can fit any occasion, from cozy family dinners to entertaining guests. Its rich, creamy base, savory sausage, and fresh spinach make it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Pair it with your favorite bread or salad for a complete meal. Once you try this comforting soup, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a warm, hearty dish perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting, flavorful meal. Packed with Italian sausage, creamy broth, fresh spinach, and tangy Parmesan cheese

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Ingredients

  

• 1 pound Italian sausage casing removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove excess fat if necessary.
• Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
• Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Add baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Notes:
• For a thicker soup, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water.
• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for a comforting meal

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