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
Units
Scale
- 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.