Description
This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is the ultimate comfort dish, packed with classic Italian flavors, tender sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich, cheesy broth. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or as a satisfying meal any time of the year, this soup comes together quickly and is easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz ditalini pasta (or orzo)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 medium russet potatoes, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for spice)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in the sausage drippings until fragrant and softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Build the Soup Base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the diced potatoes (if using) and cook for 8–10 minutes until they start to soften.
Cook the Pasta:
- Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Add more broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Add Cream and Parmesan:
- Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent curdling.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and incorporated.
Incorporate Final Ingredients:
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. If using spinach, add it now and let it wilt for 2–3 minutes.
- Season the soup with Italian herbs, ground fennel, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage, low-fat cream, or coconut milk as a substitute.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or diced potatoes in place of the pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For freezing, omit the cream and pasta, and add them fresh when reheating.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 22g
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