- Brown the sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the sausage. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
- Add the base: Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Make it creamy: Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Finish with spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper if desired.
Serving and Storage:
Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, use a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more nutrition and texture.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a more robust, cheesy flavor.
- Adjust creaminess by adding more or less heavy cream to taste.
- Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Conclusion:
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting, savory, and easy-to-make soup that delivers rich Italian flavors in every spoonful. Its creamy base, tender sausage, and fresh spinach make it both indulgent and wholesome — perfect for warming up on any day. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for family dinners or entertaining friends.
FAQ:
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, the flavors actually deepen if you make it a day ahead. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well for a lighter version.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Add fresh spinach when reheating as it doesn’t freeze well.
Can I add pasta?
Yes, small pasta like ditalini or orzo can be cooked in the soup during the last 10 minutes of simmering.