Description
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious blend of rich Parmesan, savory sausage, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage: You can opt for mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference. For a lighter version, replace it with turkey sausage.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the sausage and vegetables, adding a layer of richness.
- 1 small onion (chopped): The onion provides sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic is essential for adding a sharp, aromatic flavor to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The base of the soup. You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt levels.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the soup’s creamy texture, making it rich and hearty.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the show. Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that enhances every spoonful.
- 2 cups spinach (fresh, chopped): Fresh spinach not only adds color but also loads the soup with nutrients.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of dried herbs brings the classic flavors of Italy to the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Add a kick of heat if you like your soup spicy.
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon as it browns. Sauté the sausage until it’s fully cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. If there is excess grease, you can drain it, but leaving a bit behind will add flavor to the rest of the dish.
In the same pot, using the remaining oil and sausage drippings, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the onion is softened, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. At this stage, add your Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let the flavors meld while the soup simmers for 5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low, and slowly stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly as the cheese melts into the broth, thickening the soup and creating a velvety texture. This is the heart of the soup, so make sure the cheese is well incorporated. Keep the heat low to prevent the cream from curdling.
Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, stirring to combine. Then, toss in the fresh chopped spinach. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and tender.
Your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is now ready to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with a crusty piece of bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner