This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, hearty veggies, and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, it’s both comforting and delicious.
I love how this soup warms me up on chilly days. Just a loopy spoonful, and I’m smiling. Plus, it’s super easy to make—perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I love using mild Italian sausage, but spicy adds a nice kick! If you’re avoiding pork, chicken or turkey sausage works too.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute with half-and-half or a lower-fat milk. Just keep in mind it might change the creaminess a bit.
Fresh Spinach: If spinach isn’t your thing or out of season, try kale or Swiss chard instead. They add a nice green goodness too!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is best for melting. If you need a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast gives a cheesy flavor!
How Do I Make the Soup Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a creamy and flavorful soup lies in a few important steps. Browning the sausage well adds depth to the flavor. Don’t rush—let it get nice and golden! When you sauté the vegetables, cook until they’re soft and the onions turn translucent; it makes a difference.
- After adding the chicken broth, allow it to simmer long enough to soften the potatoes.
- Always add the cream right before serving to keep it fresh and prevent it from curdling.
- Lastly, don’t skip on seasoning; taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed!
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100g) fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup (90g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the delicious fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them until they’re softened, about 5-6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until the smell fills your kitchen!
3. Add Potatoes and Seasoning:
Stir in the diced potato and dried Italian seasoning. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to let those flavors mingle.
4. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
5. Finish with Cream and Spinach:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and everything is nice and warm.
6. Stir in Parmesan:
Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the soup becomes creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with some crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy your delicious, comforting Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup!
FAQ for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter option. Just make sure to season it well since they don’t have the same flavor punch as Italian sausage.
What Should I Do If the Soup Is Too Thick?
If you find your soup is too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in gradually and reheat if necessary.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for about 2-3 months—just let it cool completely before transferring to the freezer.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. Add more veggies or beans for protein, and be sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
