Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach

1. Cook the sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
3. Add the base: Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to combine flavors.
4. Make it creamy: Reduce heat slightly and add heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated.
5. Add spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
6. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top if desired, and enjoy warm.

Serving and Storage:

Serve this soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, use a combination of mild and spicy Italian sausage.
• Add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for more texture and nutrients.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy, cheesy flavor.
• Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if too thick or letting it simmer longer to thicken.
• Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.

Conclusion:

Italian Sausage Soup with Spinach is a rich, creamy, and comforting soup that’s full of flavor and simple to prepare. With tender sausage, fresh spinach, and a cheesy broth, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or sharing with friends and family. Every spoonful is satisfying and warming, making it a must-have recipe for cozy meals.

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?
Yes, but the flavor will be milder. Add extra seasoning or smoked paprika to mimic sausage flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup, cool, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess water before adding to prevent the soup from becoming watery.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream, and skip the Parmesan or use a vegan substitute.

Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, cooked pasta or rice can be added to make the soup more filling. Add them near the end of cooking so they don’t overcook.