Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a rich and comforting dish packed with bold flavors. Savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan-infused broth make it the perfect soup for chilly nights. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
1 lb Italian sausage (mild, spicy, or turkey)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed for cooking)
1 small onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
2 celery stalks (chopped)
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
1½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
2 cups fresh spinach or kale (chopped)
1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
For Garnish (Optional):
Fresh basil or parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage & Vegetables
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add Italian sausage.
2. Cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Build the Broth
4. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with juices.
5. Stir in Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
3. Add Cream & Parmesan
7. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt.
8. If you prefer a thicker soup, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the soup.
4. Final Touches & Serve
9. Add spinach or kale and let it wilt (2-3 minutes).
10. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
11. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil, parsley, or extra Parmesan.
Total time
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: ~450
Protein: ~22g
Carbohydrates: ~12g
Fats: ~36g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~750mg
Notes & Tips
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of pork.
Add Pasta: Stir in cooked tortellini or small pasta for a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesans.