Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, rich Parmesan cheese, and a creamy broth for a satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly days or a hearty dinner, this soup is packed with flavor and texture, featuring a blend of vegetables and spices that make each spoonful deliciously hearty.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (bulk, not in casings): Adds a savory, spicy flavor. You can use either sweet or hot Italian sausage based on your preference.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Provides a base of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced: Adds sweetness and texture.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Adds crunch and flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Forms the base of the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a savory, cheesy flavor.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and depth to the soup.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Enhances the savory flavor.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: For seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds freshness and color.
Instructions:
- Cook the Italian Sausage:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the cooked sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Discard excess fat from the pot, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the carrots and celery are tender.
- Add Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and fully incorporated into the soup. This will give the soup its creamy, cheesy texture.
- Add Peas and Season:
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the peas are heated through.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender, then return it to the pot.
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese: If you prefer a sharper flavor, you can use Pecorino Romano cheese in place of Parmesan.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad or a warm, crusty loaf of bread for dipping.
- Garnish: Top with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan cheese, and a medley of vegetables. It’s perfect for cozying up on a cold day or impressing guests at a dinner party. Enjoy this flavorful and comforting soup!
