Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

by

Introduction

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a delightful comfort food dish that blends rich flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty meal. This soup combines savory Italian sausage with a creamy, cheesy broth, accented by a touch of spice and tender pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Overview of the Recipe

This recipe for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup creates a flavorful and rich soup that’s both hearty and comforting. It’s perfect for family dinners, as it’s both filling and flavorful. The soup is relatively simple to prepare and can be customized to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this dish is versatile and can easily be scaled up or down.

History and Origin

Italian sausage soup is inspired by the traditional Italian love for soups that are rich in flavor and often filled with pasta, vegetables, and meats. While this particular recipe is a more modern adaptation, blending cream and cheese into the broth, it draws upon the Italian culinary tradition of combining hearty ingredients to create satisfying meals. Creamy soups with sausage and cheese are popular in various Italian-American dishes, showcasing a fusion of Italian flavors with American comfort food traditions.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed: Provides the main savory flavor and richness. You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
  • 1 onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup.
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped: Infuses the soup with a robust, aromatic quality.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional): Enhances the Italian sausage’s flavor with its slightly sweet and licorice-like taste.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a bit of heat and spice to the dish.
  • 4 cups chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, providing a savory liquid that complements the other ingredients.
  • 1 (14.5 ounces) can petite diced tomatoes: Adds a touch of acidity and sweetness, balancing the creaminess of the soup.
  • 8 ounces pasta (such as ditalini, gluten-free if needed): Provides texture and makes the soup more filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that adds an authentic Italian flavor.
  • 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano (Parmesan), grated: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
  • 4 ounces cream cheese (warmed): Contributes to the creaminess and richness of the soup.
  • 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream: Adds a velvety texture and rich flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing the flavors.
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal note as a garnish.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

  1. Prepare the Pan: Place a large saucepan over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Sausage and Onion: Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Add the diced onion to the pan.
  3. Sauté Until Ready: Continue cooking until the sausage is fully browned and the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Drain Excess Grease: If necessary, drain off any excess grease from the pan to prevent the soup from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

  1. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the chopped garlic, ground fennel, and red pepper flakes. Cook these for about 1 minute, just until they become fragrant. This step will enhance the flavors of the sausage.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Pasta

  1. Pour in Chicken Broth: Add the chicken broth to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the sausage mixture.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Pasta: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes and add the pasta. Stir in the Italian seasoning.
  3. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente).

Step 4: Incorporate Cheeses

  1. Add Parmesan and Cream Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the warmed cream cheese. Stir continuously until both cheeses have melted and are fully incorporated into the soup.
  2. Add Heavy Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to blend it into the soup. Allow the soup to cook for another 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Season and Serve

  1. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Optional Garnish: Stir in the chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant finish.
  3. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is best served with crusty bread like a baguette or ciabatta, which is perfect for dipping into the rich broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the creaminess of the soup, balancing the flavors with some acidity. For a complete meal, you could also serve the soup with a simple antipasto platter featuring olives, roasted peppers, and marinated vegetables.

Variations of the Recipe

  • Vegetable Addition: Add some chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
  • Protein Variations: Substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option or use a plant-based sausage to make it vegetarian.
  • Different Pasta: Try using tortellini or ravioli for a more indulgent version of the soup, or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
  • Cheese Swap: Swap out the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.

Health Benefits

This soup is rich in protein from the sausage and cheese, making it a satisfying meal that can keep you full for hours. While it does contain cream and cheese, which are higher in fat, these ingredients can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can also lighten the soup by using reduced-fat cream cheese and milk instead of heavy cream. Adding vegetables like spinach or kale can boost the nutritional content with vitamins and minerals.

Notes

  • Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water as the pasta will absorb liquid as it sits.
  • Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the cream and pasta, as these can change texture when frozen. Add them in after reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage? Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer.

Is this soup gluten-free? You can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients should be checked to ensure they are gluten-free, especially the broth and sausage.

How can I make this soup lighter? To make the soup lighter, you can use low-fat cream cheese, replace heavy cream with milk, and opt for a leaner sausage or turkey sausage.

Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. However, the pasta may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add extra liquid when reheating.

What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you don’t have heavy cream, you can substitute it with half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy base combined with the savory sausage and tender pasta makes it a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or a dish to impress guests, this soup is sure to be a hit. Customize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the hearty flavors of this Italian-inspired soup.

Leave a Comment