Nothing warms you up like a cozy bowl of creamy soup, especially on busy weeknights. This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. It brings together savory Italian sausage, Parmesan, tender pasta, and fresh spinach to make a meal that’s filling and easy to whip up.
This Italian sausage cream soup isn’t just delicious; it’s also a complete meal in a bowl! With pasta, protein, and veggies, it’s satisfying and doesn’t need much else (though a slice of crusty bread doesn’t hurt). The whole family is sure to love this creamy sausage soup, and the best part? You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to make it.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage (mild or spicy) | 1 lb |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups |
| Ditalini pasta | 1 cup |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1 cup |
| Spinach leaves (optional) | 2 cups |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Fresh basil or parsley for garnish | 1/4 cup |
Tip: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese gives the best flavor and texture for this soup. If you can, avoid the pre-grated kind, as it doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Brown the Sausage
Warm up a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then add the Italian sausage. Break up the sausage as it cooks, stirring frequently until it’s browned and fully cooked through, usually about 5-7 minutes.
Note: If you enjoy a bit of spice, using spicy Italian sausage adds a nice kick without overpowering the creamy flavor of the soup.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a plate and set it aside. Leave just a little bit of the sausage fat in the pot for added flavor (drain any excess). Toss in the chopped onion and cook it for about 4 minutes, or until it softens. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute, until it becomes fragrant.
These vegetables create a savory base for the broth, adding richness to the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to loosen up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. This adds even more flavor to the soup. Bring the broth to a gentle boil and add the ditalini pasta, cooking until it’s just tender, around 8-10 minutes. Cooking the pasta in the broth gives it a great flavor that you’ll taste in every bite.
4. Stir in the Cream and Parmesan
Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted and you have a rich, creamy broth. Give the soup a taste, then add salt and black pepper to suit your preference.
For the smoothest texture, consider whisking the cream and Parmesan into the broth slowly. This ensures everything blends nicely, making your creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup extra luxurious.
5. Add the Sausage and Spinach
Return the cooked sausage to the pot, then toss in the spinach leaves if you’re using them. Stir until the spinach wilts, which only takes a minute or two. The spinach adds a pop of color and some extra nutrients to the dish.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle each with fresh basil or parsley. For a finishing touch, add a little more Parmesan or a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. Pair with some crusty bread, garlic bread, or just enjoy it as is!
Toppings and Garnishes
Want to make your soup even more irresistible? Try these toppings:
- Extra Parmesan cheese for a richer, cheesier flavor
- Croutons to add a satisfying crunch
- Red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Fresh basil or parsley to brighten up the dish
- A sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a more intense herb flavor
Tips for Making the Best Creamy Sausage Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh Parmesan, quality sausage, and fresh spinach make all the difference in flavor.
- Adjust the Creaminess: For a richer soup, add more heavy cream or even stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese.
- Use a Nonstick Pot: This helps keep the sausage from sticking as you brown it, making cleanup easier too.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or choose spicy Italian sausage if you like more heat.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are a few side dishes to make it even better:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, fresh side dish that balances the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic combo that’s always a hit.
Storage Tips
Refrigerator: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze this soup, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. Just note that the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing, so if you prefer a firmer texture, add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the right consistency if the soup has thickened in the fridge.
Variations and Additions
- Try Different Sausage: Smoked sausage or turkey sausage can give the soup a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers make the soup even heartier and more colorful.
- Swap the Pasta: Any small pasta shape, like orzo or elbow macaroni, works well.
- Make It Low-Carb: Substitute pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 3g |
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the exact ingredients you use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is it possible to prepare this soup in advance?
Yes! If you plan to make it in advance, consider waiting to add the pasta until you’re ready to serve. Reheat the soup, then cook the pasta fresh to keep its texture.
Q2: Is it okay to use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the soup won’t be as creamy. For a lighter version, you could try half-and-half, which adds creaminess without being as rich as heavy cream.
Q3: What pasta can I use instead of ditalini?
Any small pasta shape, like orzo or elbow macaroni, will work if you don’t have ditalini.
Q4: Is this soup spicy?
It’s mild unless you add spicy sausage or red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat level to fit your preference.
Q5: Can I add other herbs?
Definitely! Italian herbs like oregano or thyme complement the flavors well.
This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is a wonderful way to warm up on chilly days. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s filling, easy to make, and brimming with rich, comforting flavors. Enjoy every spoonful of this homemade favorite with your loved ones!