Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a rich, creamy soup that warms you from the inside out. This Creamy Parmesan Sausage Soup brings together bold Italian flavors with a luscious texture that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re craving something hearty on a cold day or just want a satisfying meal with minimal effort, this dish delivers.

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. You can customize it based on dietary needs, adjust the spice level, or swap out ingredients to make it your own. Italian sausage adds a depth of flavor, but if you prefer a leaner option, you can use turkey or chicken sausage instead. The combination of pasta, parmesan, and cream cheese creates a wonderfully rich broth that coats every bite, making it feel like an indulgence while still being balanced. Plus, it comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen. Pair it with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a meal that satisfies every craving.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 8 ounces pasta such as ditalini (use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version)
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (or whipping cream)
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, warmed
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (parmigiano reggiano preferred)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage and diced onion, breaking the sausage apart as it browns. Drain excess grease if needed.
  2. Stir in the garlic, fennel, and red pepper flakes, cooking for about a minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 6-8 minutes, until the pasta reaches an al dente texture.
  4. Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan, allowing them to melt and blend into the broth for another 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add salt and pepper to taste, then stir in fresh parsley if using. Serve hot and enjoy!

Customization Options:

  • Lighter Version: Swap heavy cream for milk or Greek yogurt.
  • Thicker Soup: Add 1-2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with cool water before simmering.
  • Pasta-Free Option: Omit the pasta and reduce the chicken broth by 1 cup.
  • Extra Flavor: Add 1/2 cup roasted red peppers or 2 tablespoons fresh basil before serving.
  • Greens Addition: Stir in 4 ounces of fresh baby spinach at the end for extra nutrients.
  • More Garnish: Top with extra parmesan before serving for a bolder cheese flavor.

Nutritional & Dietary Information:

This soup offers a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. The sausage provides a savory protein source, while the cream and cheese contribute to its rich texture. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth and use reduced-salt parmesan. Those avoiding dairy can replace the cream with coconut milk and swap the parmesan for nutritional yeast. To lower the fat content, use lean turkey sausage and a milk-based alternative instead of heavy cream.

Sharing and Commenting is Caring:

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! We love hearing about your experiences, so drop a comment below and let us know if you made any creative variations. Cooking is all about making dishes your own, and we’d love to see how you put your spin on this comforting soup. Happy cooking!