Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of our creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup. This dish combines rich Italian sausage, creamy broth, and the nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty soup for guests, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious dish to your table!
Ingredients
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups spinach
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approximately 1.5 cups) contains about 400 calories, 25g protein, 30g fat, 10g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned.
3. Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
4. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
5. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Add the diced carrots and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
8. Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
9. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
10. Finally, add the spinach and Italian seasoning, cooking until wilted.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the Italian sausage for turkey sausage or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth, while maintaining the creamy texture with coconut milk.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic knots for a complete meal. It’s also delicious served with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. This soup can be frozen for up to 2 months; however, the cream may slightly change in texture upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the sausage; it should be browned, not dry.
- Be cautious with the heat when adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Ensure vegetables are cooked to the desired tenderness before adding cream.
- Don’t skip seasoning; taste and adjust as necessary.
- Allow the soup to simmer to enhance flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- For extra creaminess, add a little extra cream or cheese.
- Enhance flavor by adding a splash of white wine when cooking the onions.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other types such as chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that the sausage and broth are gluten-free, this soup can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is great with crusty bread, a side salad, or even garlic breadsticks to soak up the delicious broth.
How can I thicken the soup?
For a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry or let it simmer longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Conclusion
This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and flavor to any table. With its rich ingredients and comforting texture, it’s a dish you’ll want to prepare again and again. Enjoy every spoonful of this delicious creation!
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage sliced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Remove the sausage and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the diced carrots and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine.
- Finally, add the spinach and Italian seasoning, cooking until wilted.