This creamy parmesan soup is packed with tasty Italian sausage, veggies, and loads of cheesy goodness. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly day!
Whenever I make this soup, I can’t resist adding some crusty bread on the side. Dipping it in that creamy goodness is the best part! You’ll want seconds, trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup. You can use mild for a subtle flavor or hot for a spicy kick. If you prefer a healthier option, swap it with turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a meatless version.
Heavy Cream: Rich and creamy, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut cream. Both can provide a creamy texture without being too heavy on calories.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated has the best flavor! If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano works well too. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Vegetables: Feel free to adapt! Zucchini, spinach, or kale can be great additions. If you’re short on certain veggies, using a frozen mix could save time while still adding nutrients.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Sausage?
Cooking the sausage properly is key to achieving a flavorful soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with medium heat to avoid burning while allowing the sausage to brown nicely.
- Break the sausage apart with a wooden spoon. This ensures it cooks evenly and gives you those tasty bits.
- If the pot gets too greasy, drain excess fat before adding the veggies, but keep a little for flavor!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy Without Curdling?
Adding cream can sometimes lead to curdling, but following these tips will keep your soup smooth:
- Lower the heat to medium-low before adding the cream. High heat can cause it to curdle.
- Consider tempering the cream. Take a small amount of hot broth and whisk it into the cream first, then gradually add it back to the pot.
- Stir continuously as you combine the cream and cheese to create a luscious texture!
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot), casing removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (optional)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Olive oil for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. Total time comes to about 35 minutes. Perfect for a warm, hearty meal any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot, drizzle some olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s nicely browned, then transfer it to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté these goodies for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies get soft and fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a simmer. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, then stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer together for a few minutes.
4. Add Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and blends into the soup smoothly.
5. Stir in Chicken (Optional):
If you want to add extra protein, toss in the shredded chicken and stir until it’s heated through.
6. Season and Serve:
Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the soup, and taste; adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. Now, ladle your soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you like!
Enjoy your creamy, delicious soup! It’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
Can I Substitute the Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian version, try replacing the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils for that hearty texture.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the vegetables with a potato masher or use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup. Alternatively, add a slurry made with cornstarch and water — just mix equal parts of each and stir it in as the soup simmers until it thickens.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup stores well! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just keep in mind that the soup may thicken as it cools, so you might want to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating to reach your desired consistency.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
