If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal to warm you up on a chilly evening, Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup is the perfect dish to try. This rich and creamy soup combines savory Italian sausage, melted Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices that will make your taste buds dance with joy. With its hearty ingredients and bold flavors, this soup is the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy your cravings and keep you feeling full and content.
The combination of sausage and Parmesan creates a deliciously indulgent soup that is both creamy and flavorful. The soup’s base is simmered to perfection, making it the perfect balance of savory, rich, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or just want something hearty to enjoy on a cold day, this soup checks all the boxes.
Packed with protein and vegetables, this Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup not only tastes incredible but is also nourishing. Easy to make and full of satisfying flavors, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for winter comfort food. It’s time to bring this Italian classic into your kitchen and enjoy a warm bowl of this delicious soup!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup is a crowd-pleaser, and there are so many reasons why you’ll love making this recipe. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, this soup comes together in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking method is foolproof.
The rich and creamy texture of the soup is one of its standout qualities. The combination of sausage, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream creates a velvety smooth broth that is both indulgent and comforting. It’s a great way to add some warmth and depth of flavor to any meal. The sausage adds a savory, hearty flavor, while the Parmesan cheese brings a sharp, slightly nutty taste that ties everything together.
Another reason you’ll love this recipe is how versatile it is. While the classic version uses Italian sausage, you can switch things up by using other types of sausage or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or kale to boost the nutritional value or swap the cream for a lighter milk option.
Finally, this soup is a complete meal on its own, with a satisfying mix of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates. You won’t need to worry about making a side dish because this soup is filling and satisfying on its own. It’s a delicious and hearty dish that the whole family will love!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (bulk or casing removed)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup kale or spinach (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Equipment Used
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle
- Soup bowls for serving
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine the seasonings with the sausage and vegetables.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. The soup should become creamy and slightly thicker. If you want to add kale or spinach, stir it in at this point and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top for garnish.
Nutritional Information
This Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup is a flavorful and filling dish that provides a balance of essential nutrients. One serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 300-350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g (from vegetables)
- Protein: 15g (from sausage and cheese)
- Fat: 25g
- Sodium: 800-900mg (depending on broth used)
- Vitamins and minerals: Rich in calcium (from Parmesan), iron (from sausage), and vitamin K (from kale or spinach).
This soup is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it an excellent option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The addition of kale or spinach boosts the fiber and vitamin content, helping to balance the richness of the soup.
While this soup is indulgent, it’s also customizable to fit your dietary needs. You can adjust the fat content by using a lighter cream or substituting the sausage with a leaner protein, such as ground turkey.
Prep Time and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.
- Low-Carb Version: To make this soup even lower in carbs, reduce the amount of tomatoes and add more leafy greens like spinach or kale.
- Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or celery to increase the nutritional value and texture of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Sweet or mild Italian sausage is the most common choice, but you could also try spicy sausage for an extra kick or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will continue to develop and taste even better the next day! To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat.
Can I freeze this soup?
This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that the cream may separate slightly upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk to help restore the creamy texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Parmesan gives the soup a rich, nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or Asiago. However, Parmesan provides the signature flavor, so it’s best to stick with it for authenticity.
Pro Tips by Emma
- Don’t Overcook the Cream: To keep the soup smooth and creamy, avoid boiling it after adding the cream. Just let it simmer gently.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better into the soup and give it a smoother texture than pre-grated Parmesan.
- Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs perfectly with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a simple green salad. You could also serve it with a side of garlic bread for a more indulgent meal. For an extra boost of flavor, top the soup with additional Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup : A Hearty, Flavorful Comfort Dish
Equipment
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven:
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle
- Soup bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage bulk or casing removed
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup kale or spinach optional
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through.
- Add the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine the seasonings with the sausage and vegetables.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Add the Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes. The soup should become creamy and slightly thicker. If you want to add kale or spinach, stir it in at this point and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve with extra Parmesan cheese on top for garnish.
Notes
Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will melt better into the soup and give it a smoother texture than pre-grated Parmesan.
Add Heat: If you like a bit of spice, feel free to add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.