Introduction
Dive into a bowl of comfort with this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! This ultimate cozy dish will wrap you in warmth and flavor, making it perfect for chilly days or any time you crave something hearty and delicious. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and fresh spinach, this soup is sure to become a new family favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Enjoy this deliciously creamy and hearty Italian sausage soup that is perfect for any occasion!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot, brown 1 lb sweet Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up as it sizzles. Once it’s perfectly cooked, scoop it out with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add 2 tablespoons olive oil and sauté 1 large diced onion until it’s beautifully translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in 3 minced garlic cloves and let it waft its aroma for about a minute.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth and Cream
Pour in 6 cups chicken broth, bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a soothing simmer. Add 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Stir in 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta and simmer it to al dente perfection, roughly 8 minutes.
Step 5: Mix in Sausage and Spinach
Add the cooked sausage back to the pot, mix in 4 cups roughly chopped fresh spinach, and let it soften and wilt, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in Parmesan
Off the burner, stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into creamy goodness.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley for garnish if you’re feeling fancy.
Notes
Storage
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for additional flavor and nutrition. Use different types of pasta if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
1. Browning Sausage
Start by cooking the Italian sausage over medium heat until it becomes browned and crumbly. This not only enhances the flavor through the Maillard reaction but also adds richness to the soup.
2. Sautéing Aromatics
Once the sausage is removed, use the same pot to sauté diced onion until it’s translucent. Adding minced garlic afterward allows the flavors to meld beautifully without burning the garlic.
3. Simmering the Base
After adding the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a boil then reduce to a simmer. This helps combine the flavors thoroughly while letting the soup develop a deeper taste.
4. Cooking Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering soup and cook it just until al dente. This ensures the pasta retains some texture and doesn’t become mushy in the soup.
5. Incorporating Fresh Ingredients
After the sausage and pasta are cooked, mix in the fresh spinach just until wilted. This adds a vibrant color and a nutritional boost to your dish.
6. Creating Creaminess
Stir in the grated Parmesan after removing the pot from heat. This step helps prevent the cheese from clumping and allows it to melt smoothly into the soup.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a lighter version. Just add extra seasonings to mimic the flavor of Italian sausage.
How long can I store leftover soup?
You can store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage for plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a light salad, or garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Conclusion
