Here’s a cozy, hearty recipe for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup—rich, savory, and perfect with crusty bread.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Serves: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Black pepper, to taste
- Salt, if needed
- 2 cups spinach or kale (optional but great)
- 1 cup diced potatoes or small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook sausage until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. - Sauté aromatics:
Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds. - Build the soup:
Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, and potatoes (if using). Simmer 12–15 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
(If using pasta, add it now and cook until al dente.) - Make it creamy:
Lower heat. Stir in cream and Parmesan until smooth and melted. - Finish:
Add spinach or kale and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning. - Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan.
Tips & Variations
- Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap spinach for sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- For a thicker soup, mash a few potatoes before adding cream.
If you want, I can give you a slow-cooker, Instant Pot, or lighter version.