Heavenly Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Welcome to our kitchen, where comfort and flavor collide! Today, we’re excited to share with you a recipe that embodies the essence of hearty, comforting meals: Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. This soul-warming dish is a delightful fusion of savory Italian sausage, velvety Parmesan creaminess, and aromatic herbs, making it the perfect choice for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings with loved ones. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable soup, from ingredients to cooking tips and more.
Introduction
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan cheese, and wholesome ingredients. This soup is perfect for warming up on cold days or enjoying as a hearty meal any time of year. With its creamy texture and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Italian Sausage: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Cook Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Prepare Cream Mixture: In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream until warmed through. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Soup and Cream Mixture: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the creamy Parmesan mixture until well combined. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the Italian sausage with vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version of the soup. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Variation: For an extra kick of heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
- Creamy Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to the soup and simmer until thickened.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, feel free to substitute ditalini pasta with any small pasta shape you prefer, such as mini shells, elbows, or orzo.
Q: Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream?
A: Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, such as almond or cashew cream, as a substitute for heavy cream.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute Pasta: Replace the ditalini pasta with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to make the soup keto-friendly.
- Use Cauliflower: Replace the pasta with cauliflower florets for a low-carb option. Cauliflower adds texture and absorbs the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal to enjoy on a cold day or a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this soup is sure to delight. Give it a try and savor the warmth and flavor with every spoonful!
