This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is a cozy bowl of comfort! With tasty sausage, fresh veggies, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s rich and warm.
Perfect for chilly nights, this soup is my go-to for a family dinner. Just pour, simmer, and enjoy—no fancy tricks needed! Plus, cheesy goodness is always a crowd-pleaser. 🧀✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup. You can use either mild or spicy depending on your preference. If you want a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage.
Olive Oil: A light and flavorful choice for cooking. You can replace it with vegetable or canola oil if needed, but you might lose some of the flavor.
Potatoes: Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well for their creamy texture when cooked. If you prefer, you can substitute with sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness or use cauliflower for a low-carb option.
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich and creamy soup. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, try half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Spinach or Kale: Both add nutrients and color to the dish. If you can’t find either, Swiss chard or collard greens can be good substitutes.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Your Sausage?
The Italian sausage adds a fantastic flavor to the soup, so it’s important to cook it well. Here are my tips:
- Use a large pot to give the sausage room to brown. This creates those tasty browned bits that build flavor.
- Don’t crowd the pan—if needed, cook in batches to ensure an even browning.
- Break up the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks for a nice texture throughout the soup.
Remember, the better you cook the sausage, the more depth it adds to your creamy soup!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 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 diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced (Yukon gold or russet)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and another 35-40 minutes for cooking. In just about an hour, you can prepare a delightful, hearty meal that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it is browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). If there’s extra fat, you can drain some of it out if you want to keep the soup lighter.
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir them around and let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften up.
3. Bring in the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. This will add a lovely aroma to your soup!
4. Combine with Broth and Potatoes:
Now it’s time to add the diced potatoes, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick), salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil.
5. Simmer It Down:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when you poke them with a fork.
6. Creamy Goodness:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese is melted, creating that creamy texture you want.
7. Add Greens:
Finally, add your chopped spinach or kale and cook for about 3 minutes, or until the greens have wilted.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a little more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if you desire. Enjoy this comforting and delicious meal!
With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and hearty ingredients, this soup is perfect for warming you up on a chilly day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use any type you prefer. Chicken sausage or turkey sausage can be great lower-fat alternatives, and chorizo will add a spicy kick!
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make this soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. For the Parmesan, use a dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or microwave.
What Can I Substitute for the Heavy Cream?
If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and sour cream for a similar creamy texture. For a lighter option, try using a combination of evaporated milk and a splash of cornstarch for thickening.
