This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, comforting veggies, and a splash of cream, it’s both hearty and satisfying.
You just can’t go wrong with cheese, right? I love to top mine with extra Parmesan and maybe some crusty bread for dipping. Perfect for those chilly nights! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a similar texture.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the soup, but you can substitute it with half-and-half or whole milk if you want a lighter version. For dairy-free, coconut cream or cashew cream can give a unique flavor and consistency.
Pasta: I like using ditalini for its small size, but elbow pasta or even whole-grain pasta can work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great, but you can use kale or Swiss chard for a heartier greens option. If using frozen spinach, add it towards the end and cook until heated through.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Vegetables?
Getting the sauté just right is key for building flavors. Here’s how to make them tender and flavorful:
- Start with medium heat to give the vegetables enough time to soften without burning.
- Let the onions, carrots, and celery cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Add the garlic last to avoid burning, cooking it just until fragrant (1-2 minutes).
- This layering of flavors creates a delicious base for your soup!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like ditalini or elbow pasta)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Once it’s ready, remove it from the pot and set it aside for later.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing!
3. Combine the Base:
Now, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. This will create a hearty and flavorful base.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Once the soup is boiling, add the uncooked small pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft!
5. Add Cream and Sausage:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage you set aside earlier. Taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it a good stir to mix everything well.
6. Finish with Cheese and Spinach:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped spinach. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and the cheese is melted. You’re almost there!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if you’d like. Enjoy your creamy, comforting bowl of goodness!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Italian Sausage?
Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. To maintain flavor, consider adding extra Italian seasoning or a dash of red pepper flakes to mimic the sausage’s spiciness.
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup. If using milk, add it at the end of cooking to prevent curdling. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream can work well, imparting a hint of sweetness!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze, consider omitting the pasta before freezing, as it tends to become mushy. You can always cook fresh pasta when reheating the soup!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even some frozen peas. Just add them when you sauté the onions and carrots to ensure they’re tender in the final dish.
