This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is warm and comforting. It’s packed with savory sausage, fresh veggies, and a hint of cheese that makes every spoonful delightful!
What I love most is how easy it is to make—just toss everything into one pot and let it simmer. Perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is a cozy bowl of goodness! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the show! You can choose mild for a gentle flavor or spicy for a kick. If avoiding pork, turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the soup. If you want a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream substitute like coconut cream or cashew cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives depth and flavor. For a budget-friendly option, you might substitute grated Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan take.
Vegetables: I love adding spinach or kale for color and nutrition. You can also toss in any leftover veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy and Not Clumpy?
The trick to a smooth, creamy soup lies in the proper mixing of your ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- After the broth and veggies have simmered, lower the heat before adding heavy cream and Parmesan. This prevents curdling.
- Stir gently and continuously as you add the cheese. This ensures it melts evenly and avoids clumps.
- Feel free to use an immersion blender if you want an ultra-smooth texture. Just blend the soup to your desired consistency!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Additions:
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup is quick to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking. In total, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off to your liking.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Season the Mixture:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, along with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings into the vegetables and sausage.
4. Cook the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat further and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
6. Add Greens (Optional):
If you’re adding spinach or kale, throw it in now and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
7. Adjust Flavors:
Give your soup a taste. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Adjust to your preference!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and, if you like, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy your hearty, delicious soup!
Frequently Asked Questions about Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. For extra flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to mimic the taste of sausage.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk, such as almond or coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens, feel free to add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding a bit more broth to adjust the consistency as needed.
