Creamy Italian Parmesan and Sausage Soup – A Warming Taste of Italy in Your Kitchen

Introduction

Craving a taste of Italy without leaving your kitchen? Look no further than this creamy Italian Parmesan and Sausage Soup! This comforting and flavorful soup is incredibly easy to make, packed with savory Italian sausage, hearty vegetables, and a generous dose of Parmesan cheese. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. Get ready for a delightful taste of Italy!

Making Creamy Italian Parmesan and Sausage Soup

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 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)
• 1 cup cooked pasta (optional, ditalini or small shells recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Brown the Sausage:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add the Liquids and Seasonings:** Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Stir in the Cream and Parmesan:** Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the soup is heated through. Be careful not to boil the soup after adding the cream.
5. **Add Pasta (Optional):** If using pasta, stir in the cooked pasta and heat through.
6. **Season and Serve:** Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Soup

• **Choose your sausage wisely:** Sweet Italian sausage will give you a milder flavor, while hot Italian sausage will add a kick of heat. You can also use a combination of both.
• **Don’t skimp on the Parmesan:** The Parmesan cheese is what gives this soup its signature flavor. Use a good quality Parmesan cheese for the best results.
• **Adjust the thickness:** If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to the soup while it’s simmering.
• **Make it ahead of time:** This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits.
• **Freezing:** This soup freezes well. Allow to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Additions

• **Add Greens:** Stir in some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
• **Make it Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier soup.
• **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes.
• **Add Beans:** Cannellini beans or great northern beans would be a delicious addition to this soup.

Conclusion

This creamy Italian Parmesan and Sausage Soup is a delightful and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a warming dish to serve to guests, this soup is a perfect choice. So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to enjoy a delicious taste of Italy in your own kitchen! Buon appetito!