Welcome, soup lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightfully creamy and hearty recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a wonderful combination of Italian flavors and creamy goodness that you won’t want to miss. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey!
Introduction
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup brings together the robust flavors of sweet Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and tangy Parmesan cheese in a rich, velvety broth. This dish is rooted in the comforting tradition of Italian soups but with a twist, as the addition of heavy cream and pasta creates a filling meal that will please any palate. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian cuisine or simply looking for an easy one-pot dinner, this soup is a must-try.
For fans of soups like Zuppa Toscana or creamy pasta dishes, this recipe hits all the right notes. It’s versatile, rich, and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s ideal for chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage – Feel free to use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth – Low-sodium is best if you want to control the salt content.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Sub with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta – You can swap this with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a subtle kick of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped – Kale can also be used as an alternative.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Plus more for garnish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Feel free to add your own twist to the ingredients, whether it’s switching out the greens or using a vegetarian sausage substitute for a plant-based version!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup – Step by Step
Follow these simple steps to make this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup recipe:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Next, stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and add the chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in the Parmesan
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and well incorporated.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips
Here are some Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup tips to make this recipe even better:
- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use them instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Add extra vegetables: You can bulk up this soup by adding carrots, celery, or even mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
- For a thicker consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk in a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water or additional Parmesan to thicken the broth.
Cooking Tips
For the best results with this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup:
- Use quality sausage: A high-quality Italian sausage will make a big difference in the overall flavor.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Since the soup will continue to cook after you add the sausage and spinach, avoid overcooking the pasta during the simmering stage.
- Serve immediately: This soup is best enjoyed fresh while the pasta and sausage are still firm and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
To make this Italian sausage soup even more delightful, serve it with:
- Crusty Italian bread for dipping
- Garlic bread for a hearty side
- A fresh Caesar salad to balance out the richness of the soup
- Pair with a Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay for a refreshing contrast to the creaminess.
Nutritional Information
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s the nutritional value of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup per serving:
- Calories: 480
- Fats: 32g
- Carbs: 28g
- Protein: 20g
- Vitamins: Rich in Vitamin A (from spinach), Calcium (from Parmesan), and iron.
Storage and Leftovers
Have leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- In the fridge: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- In the freezer: This soup freezes well. Just make sure to leave out the pasta and spinach, as they can get mushy. When reheating, add fresh spinach and cooked pasta.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! Spicy Italian sausage or even chicken sausage can be used for a different flavor profile.
2. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the ditalini pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta.
4. What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula make excellent substitutions.
Related Recipes
Looking for more tasty soups and comforting dishes? Check out these:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread
– A hearty, comforting meal perfect for dinner.
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix
– A fun and delicious appetizer to pair with this soup!
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup recipe as much as I’ve loved sharing it with you. This is one dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s for a quick weeknight meal or a special family gathering. Don’t forget to leave your feedback or share your personal twists on the recipe in the comments below.
Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious bowl of creamy goodness!
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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup – Easy & Delicious Recipe
Description
Welcome, soup lovers! Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightfully creamy and hearty recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a wonderful combination of Italian flavors and creamy goodness that you won’t want to miss. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey!
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage – Feel free to use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth – Low-sodium is best if you want to control the salt content.
- 1 cup heavy cream – Sub with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta – You can swap this with gluten-free pasta if needed.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Adds a subtle kick of heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped – Kale can also be used as an alternative.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Plus more for garnish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Feel free to add your own twist to the ingredients, whether it’s switching out the greens or using a vegetarian sausage substitute for a plant-based version!
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, bringing it to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Add the Pasta
Next, stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and add the chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in the Parmesan
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until fully melted and well incorporated.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use fresh herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use them instead of dried for a brighter flavor.
- Add extra vegetables: You can bulk up this soup by adding carrots, celery, or even mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.
- For a thicker consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can whisk in a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water or additional Parmesan to thicken the broth.
