Description
This Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup is rich, creamy, and packed with savory flavors. Made with hearty Italian sausage, tangy cream cheese, and a generous dose of Parmesan, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly days. It’s quick to prepare, making it an easy weeknight dinner that’s both filling and satisfying.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 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)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Remove excess grease if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, 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, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and bring to a simmer.
- 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 is 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 basil or parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Swap Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra veggies.
- Swap Italian sausage for ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.