Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

When you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the perfect choice. Bursting with flavors of Italian sausage, tomatoes, parmesan, and cream, this soup is rich, delicious, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or serve a satisfying dish for your family, this soup will hit the spot. Plus, it’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

This soup combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the creamy richness of parmesan and cream cheese, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The addition of pasta makes it filling and satisfying, while the spices add a delightful kick. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to fit various dietary needs, making it a go-to for many home cooks.

What Makes This Soup So Special?

This soup stands out for its unique combination of ingredients that create a depth of flavor rarely found in simple soup recipes. The Italian sausage adds a robust, meaty flavor that is perfectly complemented by the creamy, cheesy broth. The mix of cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan gives the soup a velvety texture, while the addition of pasta turns it into a complete meal. Every spoonful is a comforting experience!

Ideal Occasions for Serving This Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for various occasions:

  • Weeknight Dinners: Quick to prepare, making it ideal for a busy evening.
  • Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that can be doubled for larger groups.
  • Chilly Days: A warm and cozy meal that’s perfect for colder weather.

Key Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

  • Italian Sausage (1 pound, casings removed): The star of the soup, providing a robust and savory flavor.
  • Onion (1, diced): Adds a base flavor that enhances the taste of the sausage.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, chopped): Essential for depth and aroma.
  • Ground Fennel (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Gives a slight sweetness and mild anise flavor, typical of Italian dishes.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a bit of heat.
  • Chicken Broth (4 cups): Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • Petite Diced Tomatoes (1 14.5-ounce can): Adds acidity and sweetness to balance the creaminess.
  • Pasta (8 ounces, such as ditalini): Adds substance; opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that complements the sausage.
  • Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
  • Cream Cheese (4 ounces, warmed): Contributes to the soup’s creamy texture.
  • Heavy/Whipping Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, silky finish.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): For a fresh garnish.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

  • Sausage Alternatives: Substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
  • Pasta Substitutes: Swap ditalini with any small pasta, like macaroni or shells. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
  • Spice Adjustments: Adjust the red pepper flakes to your desired spice level, or omit them for a milder soup.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

Start by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onion, breaking the sausage apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.

2. Infusing the Soup with Flavors

Next, add the chopped garlic, ground fennel, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir and cook for about a minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step will release the essential oils from the spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

3. Adding the Creaminess: Cheese and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked to an al-dente texture, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Once the pasta is cooked, add the grated parmesan cheese, warmed cream cheese, and heavy cream to the soup. Stir continuously until the cheeses have fully melted and incorporated into the broth, creating a smooth, creamy consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

4. Final Touches for a Perfect Soup

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, mix in the chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making This Soup

  1. Overcooking the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente. It will continue to soften slightly in the hot broth.
  2. Not Melting the Cheese Properly: Ensure the cream cheese is warmed to room temperature before adding it to the soup to prevent clumping.
  3. Skipping the Saute Step: Sautéing the sausage and onions properly at the beginning builds the base flavor for the entire dish.

How to Adjust the Spice Level

If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, simply omit the red pepper flakes altogether.

How to Serve Your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It’s also delicious topped with extra parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil.

Creative Garnishing Ideas

  • Sprinkle with freshly grated parmesan or pecorino.
  • Add a dollop of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley leaves for a burst of color.

Essential Tools for Making This Soup

  • Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: For cooking the soup.
  • Wooden Spoon: For stirring and breaking apart the sausage.
  • Chef’s Knife: For chopping vegetables.
  • Cutting Board: For prepping ingredients.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Store Leftovers Safely

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

FAQ Section

Can This Soup Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the pasta. Store it in the refrigerator, and when ready to serve, bring it to a simmer, add the pasta, and continue with the remaining steps.

What Pasta Works Best for This Soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or mini shells work best as they cook quickly and hold the creamy broth well.

How Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts: Savor Every Spoonful of This Comforting Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect dish to enjoy any day of the week. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

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Rich and comforting, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is easy to make and perfect for any occasion!

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6

Ingredients

  • Italian Sausage (1 pound, casings removed): The star of the soup, providing a robust and savory flavor.
  • Onion (1, diced): Adds a base flavor that enhances the taste of the sausage.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, chopped): Essential for depth and aroma.
  • Ground Fennel (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Gives a slight sweetness and mild anise flavor, typical of Italian dishes.
  • Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a bit of heat.
  • Chicken Broth (4 cups): Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • Petite Diced Tomatoes (1 14.5-ounce can): Adds acidity and sweetness to balance the creaminess.
  • Pasta (8 ounces, such as ditalini): Adds substance; opt for gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that complements the sausage.
  • Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a nutty, salty flavor.
  • Cream Cheese (4 ounces, warmed): Contributes to the soup’s creamy texture.
  • Heavy/Whipping Cream (1/2 cup): Adds a rich, silky finish.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped, optional): For a fresh garnish.

Instructions

1. Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

Start by heating a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onion, breaking the sausage apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.

2. Infusing the Soup with Flavors

Next, add the chopped garlic, ground fennel, and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir and cook for about a minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step will release the essential oils from the spices, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.

3. Adding the Creaminess: Cheese and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked to an al-dente texture, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Once the pasta is cooked, add the grated parmesan cheese, warmed cream cheese, and heavy cream to the soup. Stir continuously until the cheeses have fully melted and incorporated into the broth, creating a smooth, creamy consistency. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

4. Final Touches for a Perfect Soup

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, mix in the chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the soup hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Notes

  • Overcooking the Pasta: To avoid mushy pasta, cook it just until al dente. It will continue to soften slightly in the hot broth.
  • Not Melting the Cheese Properly: Ensure the cream cheese is warmed to room temperature before adding it to the soup to prevent clumping.
  • Skipping the Saute Step: Sautéing the sausage and onions properly at the beginning builds the base flavor for the entire dish.
  • Author: Hannah
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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