Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy soup that wraps you in warmth and flavor, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. This delightful recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

What makes this soup so special is its creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese. It brings a little taste of Italy right to your table, and I promise it will be a hit with everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 25 minutes! It’s perfect for those nights when you need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy goodness and hearty ingredients, even the pickiest eaters will love it. It’s comfort food that everyone can enjoy!
• Make Ahead: You can easily prepare this soup in advance, making it an ideal choice for meal prep or busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite is packed with flavor from the Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil, making every spoonful a treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. These items are easy to find and come together beautifully to create a hearty and comforting dish.

For the Soup Base:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 14.5 ounces petite diced tomatoes

For the Creaminess:

• 8 ounces ditalini pasta
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If you prefer turkey or chicken sausage, feel free to use that instead! It will still give you great flavor.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
• Switch up the pasta: Try different pasta shapes like shells or elbows for a fun twist.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by placing the Italian sausage into a large dutch oven or pot. Brown and crumble it until fully cooked through. This step is crucial as it releases all those delicious flavors that will form the base of your soup. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease afterward!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, stir in the diced onion, along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook these together for about 1-2 minutes. Sautéing the onions will bring out their natural sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Now it’s time to stir in your minced garlic and cook for just one more minute. Garlic adds such a wonderful aroma and depth to your dish—it’s totally worth that extra minute!

Step 4: Combine Broth and Pasta

Pour in those lovely petite diced tomatoes along with your chicken broth and ditalini pasta. Make sure everything is submerged under the broth. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 8 minutes until your pasta is al dente. This step ensures your pasta cooks perfectly while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Stir in Creaminess

Lower your heat to medium now, then stir in both cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook another 5 minutes until everything is melted together beautifully. This is where that creamy texture really comes into play—trust me; you’ll want to savor every spoonful.

Step 6: Serve with Fresh Basil

When serving, top your comforting bowl of soup with fresh basil. Not only does it add color, but it also brings a burst of freshness that ties everything together wonderfully!

Enjoy your warm bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup—it’s sure to become a cherished favorite at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can enhance the flavor profile of your soup. Fresh basil, for example, adds a vibrant taste that dried herbs might not replicate.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes. This will give your soup an extra kick that complements the creamy base beautifully.
• Experiment with Pasta Shapes: While ditalini pasta works perfectly, feel free to swap it out for any small pasta shape you have on hand. Orzo or even small shells can add a fun twist to the texture.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently when you’re ready to serve.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember that pasta may absorb some broth during storage, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.

How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Presenting your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup beautifully can make your meal feel extra special. Here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bowl.
• Shaved Parmesan: For cheese lovers, topping your soup with additional shaved Parmesan creates an elegant finish and intensifies the cheesy goodness.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving adds richness and enhances the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring added nutrition and sweetness to balance the richness of the soup.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: These delightful treats are great for soaking up every last drop of soup while adding an extra layer of cheesy goodness to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a cozy dinner featuring Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain freshness, allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If the soup thickens after freezing, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use turkey sausage in Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great substitute and will still provide wonderful flavor without the pork.

How can I make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup vegetarian?

You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives. Additionally, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

What can I serve with Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or garlic bread for dipping!

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free cheese option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. Whether you’re prepping for busy nights or simply indulging in some hearty goodness, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking!