Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe Guide
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy evening. This rich and flavorful dish, featuring Italian sausage, cream, and Parmesan cheese, is sure to provide warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Below, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, detailed instructions, and helpful tips to prepare this comforting meal.
If you’re a fan of hearty, creamy soups, you might also enjoy our Parmesan Crusted Chicken Recipe, a dish that perfectly complements this savory soup. For insights into selecting the best cheese for Italian cooking, check out our Guide on Parmesan vs Mozzarella for Pizza.
Ingredients for Making Creamy Sausage Soup
To prepare this comforting creamy Italian sausage soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 8 oz small pasta (such as ditalini or rotini)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Image source: A warm bowl of creamy sausage soup garnished with fresh parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Soup
1. Cook the Sausage
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it browns. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking, and drain excess grease for a healthier option.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. These aromatics create a flavorful base for the soup.
3. Add the Broth and Pasta
Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
4. Add Creamy Ingredients
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Incorporate the cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream into the soup. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
5. Season and Garnish
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For a delicious starter, you might want to try our Baked Brie with Cranberry Sauce and Thyme Recipe, which makes for a fantastic pairing with this rich, creamy soup.
Tips for Making the Best Italian Sausage Soup
- Choose Quality Sausage: The flavor of this dish largely depends on the sausage you use. Opt for a high-quality Italian sausage to get the most out of this recipe.
- Adjust Soup Consistency: To thicken the soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a cornstarch slurry. For a thinner consistency, simply add more broth.
- Add Vegetables for Nutrients: Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra fiber and nutrients, enhancing the soup’s health benefits.
Image source: Stirring in cream to create the perfect consistency for this sausage soup.
Nutritional Information for Creamy Sausage Soup
Below is the approximate nutritional information for creamy Parmesan sausage soup:
- Calories: Around 550 calories per serving.
- Protein: Approximately 25 grams per serving, coming mainly from the sausage and Parmesan cheese.
- Carbohydrates: About 35 grams, primarily from the pasta.
- Fat: 35 grams, mainly from the cream cheese, sausage, and heavy cream.
If you’re interested in other cheesy comfort foods, try our Cheesy Parmesan Mozzarella Bites Recipe, which pairs wonderfully as a side dish with this soup.
Frequently Asked Questions About This Sausage Soup
1. Can I Prepare This Creamy Soup in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare creamy sausage soup ahead of time. For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating the soup to prevent it from becoming too soft.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick.
3. Can I Substitute the Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds classic flavor, you can substitute it with chicken sausage or even a vegetarian sausage option for a lighter and healthier alternative.
Image source: A delicious bowl of creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup ready to be served.
Conclusion: Enjoy This Comforting Parmesan Sausage Soup
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is an ideal dish for cold nights or when you need a comforting, rich meal. With its blend of Italian sausage, cream, and Parmesan, this dish delivers a delightful experience. Don’t forget to explore other comforting recipes on Virginia Recipes, such as our Guide on Parmesan vs Mozzarella Cheese, for more insights on using delicious cheeses that make your dishes stand out.
Enjoy this cozy soup and feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it uniquely yours!