Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Introduction

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of soup, especially when it’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup has quickly become a family favorite in our home. On chilly evenings, we gather around the table, bowls steaming in front of us, and savor each spoonful of this rich and satisfying dish. The combination of Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream base makes it not only delicious but also incredibly filling. Everyone from the kids to the adults finds something to love in this soup. It’s perfect for those cozy nights when you want something warm and hearty but without too much fuss in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

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 with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, remove it from the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Incorporate Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine all the flavors.
5. Add Spinach: Finally, add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, which should take about 2 minutes.
6. Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Total Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g
• Protein: 20g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Bowls: Serve the soup in deep bowls for a hearty portion.
• Toppings: Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Sides: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Thicker Soup: For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water and add it to the soup while simmering.
2. Sausage Variations: Try using spicy Italian sausage for a kick, or swap it for turkey sausage for a lighter option.
3. Veggie Boost: Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition.
4. Herbs: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor profile; consider adding basil or oregano.
5. Make-Ahead: This soup can be made a day in advance and tastes even better the next day!

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or use mushrooms for a savory depth.
• Creamy Tomato Soup: For a twist, add a can of tomato soup to enhance the tomato flavor while maintaining creaminess.
• Pasta Addition: Incorporate small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini for added texture and heartiness.

Serving Suggestions

• Salads: A fresh garden salad pairs beautifully with this rich soup, providing a nice balance.
• Cheese Toast: Serve with cheese toast for a comforting touch.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors of the soup.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
   You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup may be less creamy.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Yes, this soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth.
4. How can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
6. How long does it take to make this soup?
   The total time is about 35 minutes, including prep and cooking.
7. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the sausage and onions first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
9. Can I use homemade broth?
   Yes, homemade chicken broth will add extra flavor to the soup.
10. How spicy is this soup?
    The spice level is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect blend of flavors and textures, providing comfort in every bowl. It’s not just easy to make, but also incredibly satisfying, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in. With its rich creaminess and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make time and time again. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, this soup is sure to impress everyone at the table!

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