Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables. This soup is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal!

Ingredients List

For the Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 1 medium onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 carrots (diced)
• 2 celery stalks (diced)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Timing

Preparing Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
2. Add Carrots and Celery: Add the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Pour in Broth: Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot.
2. Season: Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Reduce Heat: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese

1. Stir in Cream: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
2. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the soup is creamy.

Step 6: Add Greens

1. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach (or kale) and cook until wilted (about 2 minutes).

Step 7: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup (per serving, assuming 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	350
Protein	20g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	8g
Sugar	3g

Tips for Customization

• Add Beans: For added protein and fiber, consider adding a can of white beans or chickpeas.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like heat.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Can I freeze the soup?

While you can freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze it without the cream, as it may separate upon thawing. Add the cream when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal!