Here’s a rich and cozy recipe for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup — a hearty, flavor-packed soup loaded with savory sausage, tender veggies, and a creamy, cheesy broth. It’s perfect for chilly nights or whenever you want comfort in a bowl. 🥣🧀🌿
🥄 Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏱️ Cook Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Serves: 4–6
📝 Ingredients
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1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casings removed if in links
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1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups baby spinach or kale
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1½ cups diced carrots
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2 stalks celery, chopped
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4 cups chicken broth
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1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: ½ tsp red pepper flakes for a kick
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Optional: 1½ cups small pasta (like ditalini) or 1 can white beans (drained)
👩🍳 Instructions
🔹 1. Brown the Sausage
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through.
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Drain excess fat if needed, leaving a little for flavor.
🔹 2. Sauté Veggies
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Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes, until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
🔹 3. Simmer
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Add chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
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If using pasta or beans, add them now.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until veggies (and pasta, if used) are tender.
🔹 4. Make It Creamy
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Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
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Simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring often, until the soup thickens slightly.
🔹 5. Add Greens & Serve
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Stir in spinach or kale and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast.
🔁 Variations
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Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
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Add potatoes instead of pasta for a rustic twist.
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Make it gluten-free with GF pasta or skip it entirely.
Would you like a crockpot version, dairy-free alternative, or want to scale it for a larger group?