This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a rich and hearty dish loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a luscious parmesan-infused broth. Perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal, this soup is an easy one-pot recipe that delivers bold flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich & Creamy – The combination of heavy cream and parmesan creates a velvety texture.
- Hearty & Filling – Packed with protein and vegetables for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a great weeknight option.
- One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup while still delivering maximum flavor.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to different diets and preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Carrots, sliced
- Celery, chopped
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Spinach or kale
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Sauté the Sausage – In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Cook the Aromatics – Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften.
- Simmer the Broth – Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cream & Parmesan – Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
- Incorporate Greens – Stir in spinach or kale and let simmer for a few more minutes until wilted.
- Serve & Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with extra parmesan and red pepper flakes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 4-6 servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Low-Carb Version – Skip the carrots and use cauliflower instead.
- Spicy Twist – Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap sausage for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Thicker Soup – Stir in a cornstarch slurry to enhance the texture.
- Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed to maintain consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes! Ground turkey works well but may need additional seasoning to mimic the bold flavors of Italian sausage.
How do I keep the cheese from clumping?
Gradually stir in the parmesan and keep the heat low to prevent clumping.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free parmesan substitute.
What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple side salad make great accompaniments.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Yes! Small pasta like orzo or ditalini can be added for extra heartiness.
What’s the best way to reheat without curdling?
Reheat slowly over low heat and avoid bringing it to a boil.
Is this soup keto-friendly?
Yes! Just ensure all ingredients are low-carb and avoid adding pasta.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes! Simply slice it and sauté briefly before adding to the soup.
How can I make it extra creamy?
Blend in some softened cream cheese for an ultra-rich texture.
What can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even finely chopped cabbage are great substitutes.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food with rich flavors, creamy broth, and hearty ingredients. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warm, comforting goodness!
PrintCreamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Description
This rich and flavorful soup is made with hearty Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan cheese, and tender vegetables in a savory broth. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for chilly nights!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale, chopped
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Build the Broth:
- Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Make it Creamy:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Let it warm through (do not boil).
- Add Greens & Finish:
- Stir in baby spinach/kale and cook for 2 minutes, until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve Hot:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast!
Notes
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Extra Flavor: Add ½ cup cooked pasta (like orzo or tortellini).
- Storage: Keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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