Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

For the Soup:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the sausage)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (optional, for a heartier soup)
• 3 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added nutrition)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board (for chopping the onion, garlic, and potatoes)
• Stirring spoon
• Ladle
• Cheese grater (for freshly grated Parmesan)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Serving bowls

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

This soup may sound indulgent, but it’s simple and quick to prepare! Follow these easy steps to make this creamy, savory soup that’s sure to impress:

Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once the sausage is browned, drain any excess fat if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Potatoes

1. Pour in the chicken broth and stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
2. Add the diced potatoes (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 3: Make the Soup Creamy

1. Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the heavy cream and whole milk.
2. Add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
3. Season the soup with dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. You can add more seasonings depending on your preference.

Step 4: Add the Greens

1. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale (if using). Let the greens wilt in the soup, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Once everything is well combined and heated through, ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
3. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

• Choosing Sausage: For the best flavor, choose high-quality Italian sausage. If you like a bit of heat, go for spicy sausage. You can also use turkey sausage for a leaner version of the soup.
• Grating Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt more smoothly into the soup, providing a creamier texture. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the soup’s consistency.
• Add More Veggies: If you want to pack in more veggies, you can add carrots, celery, or bell peppers. These can be cooked with the onions and garlic for extra flavor.
• Make it Low-Carb: Skip the potatoes and add cauliflower for a low-carb alternative that still gives you that hearty texture.
• Creaminess Control: You can adjust the level of creaminess by using less cream and more broth or milk. If you want it richer, feel free to add extra cream or cheese.

Variations on Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

• Spicy Version: If you like your soup with a bit of a kick, add some red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for an extra layer of heat.
• Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk, and use dairy-free Parmesan cheese. The result will be a slightly different but still delicious version of the soup.
• Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and replace it with mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. You could also add lentils or chickpeas for added protein.
• Sausage and Bean Soup: Add white beans or kidney beans to the soup for a heartier meal. Beans pair beautifully with the sausage and make the soup even more filling.