This warm and creamy soup combines savory Italian sausage and rich Parmesan cheese for a comforting bowl of goodness. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal!
I love how filling this soup is—it makes me feel like I’m wrapped in a warm blanket. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, so I can enjoy it any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the heart of the soup, offering great flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage instead. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a hurry, shallots can be a tasty substitute. Even green onions work in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: Essential for creaminess! If you want to lighten it up, you could use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind it may slightly change the flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice touch. For a budget-friendly choice, Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano can also work well. Avoid pre-grated cheese if you can, as it won’t melt as smoothly.
How Do I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking potatoes to the right tenderness is key for a satisfying texture in your soup. Here are a few steps to nail it:
- Dice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Smaller pieces cook faster.
- When you add them to the broth, give them time to boil; then reduce to a simmer. This helps them cook through without becoming mushy.
- Check for doneness by poking a piece with a fork. It should slide in easily when they’re ready!
Make sure to add them before the cream so they have enough time to soften.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside, but leave the rendered fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute until you can smell that delicious garlic aroma.
3. Add the Potatoes and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced potatoes, dried oregano, and basil. Mix everything together well to coat the potatoes in the delicious flavors from the pot.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the chicken broth. Pour it in and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Mix in the Cream and Sausage:
Once the potatoes are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and the cooked sausage. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors beautifully.
6. Add the Parmesan:
Now, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir well until the cheese is melted and fully blended into the soup, making it creamy and delicious.
7. Finish with Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach to the pot and cook until it is wilted, which should take about 2 minutes. This will add a vibrant color and extra nutrients to your soup.
8. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot in bowls and feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage to cater to your dietary preferences. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly based on your choice.
How Do I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, try mashing some of the cooked potatoes and stirring them back into the pot. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the soup and let it simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Certainly! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if it’s too thick when reheating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and can last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving!
