There’s something special about cozy soups that makes my heart skip a beat, and this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is no exception! I discovered this gem of a recipe on a chilly autumn evening when all I wanted was a big bowl of comfort. Picture me wrapped up in a blanket, a fire crackling nearby, and a steaming bowl of this soup in my hands. It felt like a warm hug, and I knew right then that I had stumbled upon a winner!
What makes this soup stand out is the rich blend of creamy Parmesan and savory Italian sausage, bringing together flavors that dance on your taste buds. Plus, the addition of fresh veggies makes it feel just a tad healthier — we can at least pretend, right? This has become one of my go-to recipes for gatherings, and I promise it’ll be a hit at your next dinner party or family meal!
What’s in Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Let me break down the delightful ingredients that come together to create this delectable soup:
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the show! I typically go for sweet Italian sausage for that perfect balance of flavor. If you like a kick, feel free to use spicy sausage instead.
Onion: Chopped onion adds a natural sweetness and depth to the soup. I like to use yellow onions, but white onions also work well.
Garlic: Because, let’s be real — garlic makes everything better! Fresh minced garlic gives the soup a fragrant punch.
Carrots: Diced carrots add a lovely crunch and color, making the soup not just tasty but beautiful too.
Celery: Celery contributes a subtle earthiness and a nice crunch. It’s a must-have in my book.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth is used as the base for this soup. I prefer low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Heavy Cream: The creaminess factor! This is what turns a regular soup into a luxurious experience.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan elevates the flavor and provides a rich, salty complexity that ties everything together.
Spinach or Kale: For some green goodness! I often go with spinach for its tenderness, but kale can add a heartier texture if that’s your preference.
Is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Good for You?
Let’s talk about the health aspect of this comforting dish. While this soup is undeniably rich and creamy, it does bring some benefits along with the indulgence!
Italian Sausage: Packed with protein, sausage can be a satisfying addition to your meal, but moderation is key because it can also be high in fat.
Veggies: The carrots, celery, and spinach/kale offer essential vitamins and minerals, making this soup a more balanced option compared to typical creamy soups.
Heavy Cream: While delicious, heavy cream is calorie-dense, so if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute it for half-and-half or even use some almond milk and cornstarch as a thickening agent.
Overall, this soup is a delightful treat, but if you are watching your intake of fats or calories, consider serving it with a side salad to balance things out!
Ingredients
– 1 pound Italian Sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (your choice)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
This recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, perfect for a family dinner or for meal prep for the week ahead!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and crispy. Break it up into chunks as it cooks.
3. Once the sausage is cooked, add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the veggies start to soften.
5. Pour in the broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and incorporated.
7. Finally, mix in the fresh spinach or kale, and cook for another couple of minutes until the greens are wilted.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then ladle it up in bowls!
Serve it Up!
This soup is so versatile! It pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad on the side. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for that ‘wow’ factor. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! It’s a dish that brings people together, warms up chilly nights, and just makes everything feel a bit cozier. I would love to hear how it turns out for you, so don’t forget to share your experience! Happy cooking!
