Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Introduction

Warm up your soul with this incredibly delicious and easy Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! This comforting soup is packed with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich, creamy parmesan broth that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and is surprisingly versatile. Let’s dive into the details!

Making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Cream and Parmesan: Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Heat through, stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy. Do not boil.
5. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it Up: Use hot Italian sausage and add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Add Greens: Stir in a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.
• Pasta Addition: Stir in cooked small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo during the last 10 minutes of simmering for a heartier soup.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles.
• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a winner for its ease of preparation, delicious flavor, and comforting warmth. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this soup is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family – they’ll thank you for it!