Ret Soup
Introduction
If you’re looking for a hearty, creamy, and flavor-packed soup, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Furthermore, made with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, rich cream, and Parmesan cheese, this soup is perfect for cold nights, meal prepping, or an easy weeknight dinner.
Also, with its thick, velvety texture and bold Italian flavors, this soup is a cross between a creamy chowder and a classic Italian zuppa. Moreover, it’s low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great option for different diets. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad, this soup is guaranteed to be a new family favorite.
So, let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love Italian Sausage Soup
- Rich & Creamy – A thick, velvety soup packed with flavor.
- Hearty & Satisfying – Loaded with sausage, veggies, and cheese.
- One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup with minimal dishes!
- Keto-Friendly & Low-Carb – Perfect for those watching their carbs.
- Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add pasta for a twist.
- Freezer-Friendly – Stores well for meal prep.
Ingredients of Italian Sausage Soup
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that create bold flavors.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Adds rich, savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
- 1 medium onion (chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Essential for bold Italian flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced) – Adds sweetness and color.
- 2 cups spinach or kale (chopped) – For added nutrition.
- 4 cups chicken broth – The base of the soup.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) – Adds acidity and balance.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Makes the soup extra creamy.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese – The star ingredient for a rich, cheesy finish.
- 1 tsp dried basil – Adds warm, herby flavor.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Complements the sausage perfectly.
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – For extra spice.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste) – Enhances all the flavors.
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup cooked pasta (like orzo or ditalini) – For a heartier version.
- ½ tsp smoked paprika – For a subtle smoky kick.
- ½ cup mushrooms (sliced) – Adds an earthy depth.
Necessary Tools for Italian Sausage Soup
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – For even cooking.
- Cutting board & knife – To prep ingredients.
- Ladle – For easy serving.
- Measuring cups & spoons – For accuracy.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring and scraping the pan.
Moreover, craving a hearty and flavorful meal? So, try this delicious Italian Sausage Soup recipe from Allrecipes—packed with savory sausage, fresh veggies, and rich broth!
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
This versatile soup recipe can be customized in many ways:
- Not a fan of sausage? → Use ground turkey, chicken, or beef.
- Want a dairy-free version? → Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Need a low-fat option? → Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Like it extra cheesy? → Add ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Gouda.
- Prefer a thicker soup? → Add ½ tsp xanthan gum or cornstarch slurry.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Then, add Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Transfer sausage to a plate and drain excess grease if needed.
2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onions, garlic, and red bell pepper.
- Sauté for 3–4 minutes until onions are soft and fragrant.
- Stir in basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3: Simmer the Soup
- Then, pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice).
- Later, return cooked sausage to the pot and bring to a gentle boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4: Add Cream and Parmesan
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded Parmesan.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until the cheese melts and the soup thickens.
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted.
5: Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream.
- Then, ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Brown the sausage well – It adds extra depth to the flavor.
- Simmer gently – Avoid boiling after adding cream to prevent curdling.
- For a thicker soup, let it sit for 10 minutes before serving—it thickens as it cools!
- For meal prep, store the soup without spinach and add fresh greens when reheating.
Serving Suggestions for Italian Sausage Soup
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup pairs perfectly with:
🥖 Garlic bread – For dipping into the creamy broth.
🥗 Side salad – A fresh contrast to the rich soup.
🧀 Extra Parmesan – Because more cheese is always a good idea!
🍷 Glass of red wine – A bold Italian red complements the flavors beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months (without cream—add fresh cream when reheating).
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Add a splash of broth or cream if needed – The soup thickens as it sits.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes! Slice it and add it directly during the simmering step.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Of course, brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except cream and cheese. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, then stir in cream and cheese at the end.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze it without the cream. Add fresh cream when reheating.
4. What’s the best type of sausage for this soup?
Use mild or spicy Italian sausage for the best flavor.
5. How do I make this soup thicker?
Blend some of the soup with an immersion blender or add a cornstarch slurry.
Conclusion
To conclude, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is rich, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this soup is guaranteed to impress.
Additionally, warm up with this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup—a rich, hearty, and flavor-packed dish perfect for any cozy night!
So, try it today and let us know how you liked it!
