Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

Looking for a cozy and flavorful dish to warm up your soul? This creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with rich, savory flavors. Loaded with hearty Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy parmesan, this soup is a perfect choice for a family meal or a quick weeknight dinner. Read on for a detailed step-by-step recipe, substitution ideas, and tips on how to make this dish even more mouthwatering!

this Recipe

What is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

Creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together the savory flavors of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a velvety broth made with parmesan and cream. It’s similar to a traditional Italian Zuppa Toscana, but with an extra creamy twist thanks to the addition of parmesan cheese. This soup is both filling and delicious, making it the perfect meal to enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad.

Ingredients List for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Here’s a comprehensive list of ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious soup:

For the Soup:

1. Italian sausage - 1 pound (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
2. Olive oil - 2 tablespoons for sautéing
3. Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
4. Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
5. Carrots - 2 medium, peeled and diced
6. Celery - 2 stalks, diced
7. Russet potatoes - 3 medium, peeled and cubed
8. Chicken broth - 6 cups (use low-sodium if you want to control the salt level)
9. Heavy cream - 1 cup (for extra creaminess)
10. Parmesan cheese - 1 cup, freshly grated
11. Spinach or kale - 2 cups, chopped (optional for a healthy green addition)
12. Thyme - 1 teaspoon, dried (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
13. Italian seasoning - 1 teaspoon
14. Salt - 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
15. Black pepper - ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
16. Crushed red pepper flakes - ½ teaspoon (optional, for some heat)
17. Fresh parsley - 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of this creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup lies in its flexibility. Here are some substitutions and variations to suit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Meat Variations: You can swap out the Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage option for a lighter or plant-based version.
• Vegetable Options: Add extra vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor. You can also switch out the potatoes for sweet potatoes if you prefer a sweeter, heartier option.
• Leafy Greens: Instead of spinach or kale, you can use Swiss chard, collard greens, or omit the greens altogether if preferred.
• Low-Fat Version: For a lighter soup, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. It won’t be as rich but will still be delicious.
• Cheese Variations: Parmesan gives the soup its signature flavor, but you can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a similar cheesy bite. For a more subtle flavor, try adding mozzarella or Gouda.
• Broth Substitutes: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth if you want to make this dish vegetarian (assuming you’re also using vegetarian sausage).

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now let’s walk through the detailed steps to create this creamy and flavorful parmesan Italian sausage soup.

1. Cook the Italian Sausage

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully cooked and crispy around the edges. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add Potatoes and Seasonings

Add the cubed potatoes to the pot, followed by the thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine all the ingredients and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Add Chicken Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and cooked through.

5. Stir in the Cream and Parmesan

Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy and rich. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to your liking.

6. Add Greens (Optional)

If you’re using spinach or kale, stir it into the soup at this stage. Let the greens wilt for about 2-3 minutes in the hot soup. Spinach will wilt quickly, while kale might take a little longer.

7. Reintroduce the Sausage

Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pot and stir it into the soup. Let everything heat through for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all the flavors meld together.

8. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.

How to Cook Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a quick recap of the steps to cook creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup:

1. Brown the Italian sausage and set it aside.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Add cubed potatoes, seasonings, and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
6. Add spinach or kale (optional) and let it wilt.
7. Return sausage to the pot and let it heat through.
8. Serve with fresh parsley and additional parmesan.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the vegetables when sautéing. You want them soft but not mushy.
• Skipping the Parmesan: Parmesan is crucial for this soup's flavor. Make sure to use freshly grated parmesan, as pre-grated versions may not melt as smoothly.
• Boiling the Cream: When adding cream, be sure to lower the heat to a simmer. Boiling cream can cause it to curdle, so it’s important to avoid high heat once the cream is added.
• Not Adjusting Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed, especially since broth and cheese can vary in saltiness.

Serving and Presentation Tips

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread or garlic toast makes the perfect companion to this creamy soup. It’s great for dipping and soaking up the broth.
• Use Soup Bowls or Bread Bowls: For an extra-cozy presentation, serve the soup in bread bowls. The combination of creamy soup and the crunchy bread bowl will impress your guests.
• Garnish Generously: Don’t be shy with garnishes! A sprinkle of fresh parsley, extra parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Serve this soup hot, ladled into deep bowls, with plenty of freshly grated parmesan on top. Pair it with some crusty French bread, garlic toast, or even buttery dinner rolls for a complete meal. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy soup.

Presentation Ideas for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

• Elegant Garnish: Add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche on top and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley or thyme.
• Rustic Touch: Serve the soup in ceramic bowls and place a slice of toasted bread directly on top of the soup for a rustic presentation.
• Bread Bowls: For a fun and indulgent twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out sourdough bread bowls. The bread will absorb the creamy broth and can be eaten along with the soup.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Tips

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and fresh garlic will make a world of difference in flavor.
• Consistency Control: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or immersion blender before adding the cream.
• Batch Cooking: This soup freezes well. Just leave out the cream if you plan on freezing it and add it when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup?
   Yes! To freeze, leave out the cream and parmesan. When reheating, add the cream and cheese after the soup has thawed and reheated.
2. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, you can use milk for a lighter version of the soup, but it won’t be as rich and creamy. Half-and-half is a good middle-ground substitute.
3. How can I make this soup spicy?
   Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! Brown the sausage first, then add all the ingredients except the cream and parmesan to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and cheese in the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines rich flavors with the perfect creamy texture. It’s simple to make, versatile with ingredients, and perfect for any cold day or busy weeknight. With easy steps and flexible variations, this soup is bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, savory flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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