This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy night in. With tender Italian sausage, creamy cheeses, and aromatic Italian seasonings, this soup is sure to satisfy. It’s quick to make and full of rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional, for a subtle anise flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth (rich and flavorful base)
- 1 (14.5 ounces) can petite diced tomatoes
- 8 ounces pasta (such as ditalini, gluten-free for gluten-free option)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (adds herby flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated parmigiano reggiano (parmesan)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, warmed
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream (for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onion
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook the 1 pound of Italian sausage and diced onion over medium heat until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. As it cooks, break the sausage apart into small pieces. Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess grease from the pan.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Add the 2 chopped garlic cloves, 1/2 teaspoon of ground fennel (if using), and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using) to the cooked sausage and onions. Stir the mixture, cooking for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Pasta
Next, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the 14.5-ounce can of petite diced tomatoes. Stir in the 8 ounces of pasta and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, add the 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 4 ounces of warmed cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of heavy cream to the soup. Stir the soup gently for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheeses to melt and blend into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley if you’re using it, or simply garnish each bowl with a little extra parmesan cheese.
Optional Additions and Tips:
- Replace the cream with milk or yogurt for a lighter version.
- Thicken the soup: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cool water and stir into the soup near the end, simmering until thickened.
- Omit the pasta for a lower-carb option, and remove 1 cup of chicken broth to maintain the thickness.
- Add roasted red peppers: Stir in 1/2 cup diced roasted red peppers for an extra layer of flavor.
- Basil option: Add 2 tablespoons of sliced fresh basil just before serving for a fresh, herby twist.
- Extra garnish: Top with more grated parmesan for a cheesy finish.
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy and rich soup pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy broth
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a complete meal
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 400
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Calcium: High due to the parmesan and cream
Storing and Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a little extra broth or cream if the soup thickens.
- Freeze: While this soup can be frozen, the texture of the cream and cheese may change slightly. If freezing, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop.
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful blend of savory sausage, tangy tomatoes, and creamy cheeses. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together, this soup is sure to please with its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. Enjoy!