Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights. The savory sausage pairs perfectly with creamy, cheesy broth, creating a hearty and flavorful meal. With the addition of Parmesan and cream cheese, this soup is indulgently creamy while still being easy to prepare in one pot.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy, crumbled)
- Olive oil
- Onion (diced)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Diced tomatoes (with juices)
- Cream cheese (cubed, softened)
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Spinach or kale (chopped)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh basil or parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Add the chopped spinach or kale, cooking until wilted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Low-Carb: Omit the tomatoes and add more leafy greens for a keto-friendly version.
- Extra Cheesy: Add shredded mozzarella for an even cheesier texture.
- Hearty Add-ins: Stir in cooked pasta or rice for a more filling meal.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, but consider adding extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Simmer gently and avoid boiling after adding the cream and cheese.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats well. Store in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and sausage.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions.
How do I make the soup thicker?
Simmer longer to reduce the liquid or add extra cream cheese.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but the texture may change slightly due to the cream. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
What sides go well with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad complement this dish well.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo can be used.
How do I make the soup less rich?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or add more broth to lighten it.
Conclusion
Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With savory sausage, rich cream cheese, and fresh vegetables, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and savor the warmth in every bowl!
PrintSausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
Description
This Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Savory Italian sausage is simmered with cream cheese, Parmesan, and simple spices to create a hearty, comforting soup. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a quick, one-pot meal that’s low-carb, keto-friendly, and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the soup base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add the creaminess:
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the broth.
- Add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the soup becomes creamy and smooth.
- Finish the soup:
- Stir in the fresh spinach (if using) and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
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