Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a rich, comforting dish that combines savory Italian sausage, creamy broth, and Parmesan cheese for a hearty meal. The perfect balance of flavors and textures makes this soup an ideal choice for a cozy dinner or to serve on a chilly evening.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (ground, mild or spicy)olive oilonion (diced)garlic cloves (minced)carrots (sliced)celery (diced)chicken brothheavy creamParmesan cheese (grated)potatoes (peeled and cubed)fresh spinach (optional, for extra greens)oregano (dried)thyme (dried)salt and pepper

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Remove the sausage and set aside.

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the potatoes, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to simmer for another 5 minutes, until the soup is creamy and well-combined.

Optional: Stir in fresh spinach at the end of cooking and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 25-30 minutesTotal time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.

Add a touch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.

Swap the potatoes for cauliflower for a low-carb version.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors before serving.

storage/reheating

Store Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat in a pot on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage, such as turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Parmesan is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use Pecorino Romano or a combination of both.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and stir in the cream and cheese at the end.

How can I make the soup thicker?

You can mash some of the potatoes in the soup or add a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a satisfying, rich, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for cooler weather or when you’re craving a comforting meal. The savory sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy broth make it a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to prepare and hard to resist. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup with some crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal!