Oh boy, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food that warms me right down to my toes: Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! This soup has been a staple in my household for years. I remember the first time I whipped it up for my family on a chilly Sunday afternoon. The aroma wafting through the house was so intoxicating that not a single person could resist coming into the kitchen to find out what scrumptious dish was bubbling away. We all gathered around the table, bowls in hand, and by the end of the meal, there were happy stomachs and smiles all around.
What makes this soup so special? It’s the perfect blend of hearty Italian sausage, rich cream, and freshly grated parmesan. Plus, it’s packed with veggies, making it an all-in-one meal that’s just delightful to enjoy on a cold day. Whether you’re looking for something to bring to a potluck or just want a cozy dinner at home, this soup has you covered!
What’s in Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Italian Sausage: I love using a combination of sweet and spicy Italian sausage for a full-bodied flavor. It adds a nice depth and richness to the soup. If you want to keep things lighter, you can opt for turkey sausage.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle of extra virgin olive oil starts our flavor base, providing a rich nuttiness and a medium for sautéing the veggies.
Garlic: Fresh, minced garlic gives that aromatic kick! I like to throw in an extra clove or two…because, let’s be honest, who doesn’t love garlic?
Onion: A finely chopped onion adds sweetness and depth to the broth. I usually use yellow onions, but white can work just as well!
Carrots and Celery: These classic mirepoix ingredients add a nice crunch and natural sweetness. They’re the unsung heroes of so many soups!
Spinach: Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a nutrient boost. It wilts down beautifully and makes you feel a tad virtuous as you sip your soup.
Chicken Broth: The base of our soup, chicken broth provides a lighter flavor but feel free to use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
Cream: Heavy cream is what makes this soup creamy and decadent. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half also works but just won’t be quite as indulgent.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan is a must! It melts into the soup creating a velvety texture. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness?
Is Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Good for You?
This soup has some great health benefits, but as with everything, it’s all about balance!
Italian Sausage: While it brings a lot of flavor, it’s also higher in fat, so if you’re watching your intake, choosing lean turkey sausage can help lighten things up.
Spinach: This powerhouse ingredient not only adds a wonderful earthy flavor but also packs a ton of vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of iron and antioxidants!
Cream: Yes, cream adds richness, but it also ups the calorie count. You can always lighten things up by using a plant-based cream or sticking to lower-fat dairy options if that’s your jam.
Overall, this soup is a lovely way to enjoy hearty ingredients while getting in some veggies. Moderation is key, and I say treat yourself every now and then!
Ingredients List
– 1 lb Italian Sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 stalks celery, diced
– 4 cups fresh spinach
– 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
This recipe serves about 6 hearty bowls, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks, until it’s browned and no longer pink. About 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until the garlic is fragrant (you don’t want it to burn).
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes.
5. Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated parmesan cheese until it’s melted and creamy.
6. Finally, add the fresh spinach and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat. Stir until the spinach is wilted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of this delicious bowl of goodness!
Little Extras for a Cozy Bowl
If you want to jazz things up a bit, try adding other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms! A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top gives it that extra pop of color. And don’t skip the crusty bread—it’s the perfect vehicle for soaking up that creamy broth.
You could even make it a little fancy with a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
I genuinely hope you give my Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup a try! It’s like a hug in a bowl! And hey, if you do whip it up, I’d love to hear what you think, or any little twists you made to make it your own! Happy cooking!