I’ve always loved how a warm bowl of soup can turn even the coldest day around, and this creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup is no exception. It’s packed with savory sausage, tender veggies, and a rich, cheesy broth that’s just the right amount of indulgent. It’s easy to make, but the flavors are anything but simple. If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying, you’ll want to try this one.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Creamy Parmesan Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors with a velvety texture.
• It’s packed with hearty sausage, tender vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan base for a satisfying meal.
• The recipe is easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
• It’s versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients to suit your taste preferences.
Recipe
Warm up with a bowl of creamy Parmesan sausage soup, a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe combines savory sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich Parmesan-infused broth for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the pot and add chicken broth, thyme, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes:
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serving:
Serves 4
Calories:
Approx. 450 calories per serving
Cuisine:
Italian-inspired
Equipment
To prepare this Creamy Parmesan Sausage Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools for efficient cooking.
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk or immersion blender
- Ladle for serving
Nutrition
This creamy Parmesan sausage soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal. It’s packed with essential nutrients to keep you satisfied and energized.
- High in protein from sausage and Parmesan cheese
- Rich in calcium and vitamin D from dairy ingredients
- Contains fiber from vegetables like carrots and spinach
- Provides healthy fats from cream and olive oil
- Low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for low-carb diets
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I serve this creamy Parmesan sausage soup, I always pair it with something hearty like crusty bread or savory garlic bread to soak up every bit. A fresh garden salad or some roasted veggies on the side adds a nice crunch and balance to the meal. If you’re feeling extra hungry, a light pasta dish can turn it into a full dinner that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Crusty Bread Pairings
Since creamy Parmesan sausage soup is hearty and rich on its own, I think it’s a must to balance it with something simple and satisfying—like crusty bread. A warm, golden loaf of crusty bread is my go-to because it soaks up the flavorful broth so well. I love tearing off a piece and dipping it right into the soup; it adds the perfect texture contrast. Garlic-buttered baguette or a rustic sourdough are flavorful pairings that elevate the meal without stealing the show. Trust me, it’s the kind of combo that makes every spoonful feel extra special.
Fresh Garden Salad
While crusty bread is a fantastic match for creamy Parmesan sausage soup, sometimes I’m in the mood for something lighter to balance out the meal. That’s where a fresh garden salad comes in! I love tossing together crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers—all fresh ingredients that brighten up the dish. A sprinkle of garden herbs like basil or parsley adds a burst of flavor without overpowering the soup. It’s simple, healthy, and perfectly complements the richness of the soup. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while keeping the meal satisfying and well-rounded.
Roasted Veggie Sides
If you’re looking to add depth and warmth to your creamy Parmesan sausage soup, roasted veggie sides are a must-try! I love pairing this soup with roasted carrots—their natural sweetness caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich, earthy flavor. A zucchini medley, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, is another favorite of mine. It’s light yet satisfying, and the tender zucchini complements the soup’s creaminess perfectly. Roasting veggies is simple, and the aroma fills your kitchen with coziness. Trust me, these sides elevate the meal, making it feel hearty and complete without overpowering the star of the show—your delicious soup!
Savory Garlic Bread
To take your creamy Parmesan sausage soup to the next level, there’s nothing quite like a side of savory garlic bread. I love slathering garlic butter on my bread types, whether it’s a crusty baguette or a soft ciabatta. The garlic butter, made with fresh garlic, butter, and a pinch of parsley, melts into the bread as it toasts, creating a golden, aromatic treat. It’s the perfect companion for dipping into the rich soup, adding a crunchy contrast to the creamy texture. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed soup without it!
Light Pasta Dishes
When I’m serving up a hearty bowl of creamy Parmesan sausage soup, I often like to balance it with something light and fresh—like a simple pasta dish. A lemon garlic spaghetti or a zesty tomato basil penna are my go-to’s, as they add brightness without overpowering the soup’s richness. I sometimes swap regular pasta for whole wheat or zucchini noodles for healthy alternatives—it’s a quick way to keep things light. Tossing in fresh veggies like spinach or cherry tomatoes adds extra flavor and nutrients. It’s all about creating a meal that feels indulgent yet balanced, and it’s surprisingly easy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Turkey Sausage Instead of Italian Sausage?
Like swapping a heavy cloak for a lighter shawl, I welcome a healthy alternative. Turkey sausage works perfectly, its lean profile and subtle turkey flavor weaving seamlessly into the dish without losing the heart of the meal.
How Long Does the Soup Last in the Fridge?
I’d store the soup in an airtight container for fridge longevity, and it should last about 3-4 days. Keeping it chilled properly is key, so I’ll make sure it’s cooled before soup storage in the fridge.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Once, I froze a batch of chili, and it thawed like a sunrise—slow and steady. For freezing methods, I pack it in airtight containers, leaving space. Thawing tips? I move it to the fridge overnight for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
I’d use nutritional alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream for a lighter option. For flavor variations, I’d try Greek yogurt or evaporated milk—they’ll still give richness but with a slightly different taste.
Is This Recipe Gluten-Free?
I’m not sure if this recipe’s gluten-free, but I’d check for gluten-free ingredients like cornstarch or arrowroot as alternate thickeners instead of flour. Always verify labels, especially for sausage and broth, to confirm they’re safe.
