Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty, indulgent, and soul-warming bowl of comfort. Loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, rich cream cheese, and a cheesy parmesan base, this one-pot meal is perfect for cozy nights or when you need a satisfying, flavorful dinner in a hurry. Ready in just 35 minutes, this soup is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Ultra Creamy: Thanks to cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan.
• Protein-Packed: Hearty Italian sausage adds robust flavor and richness.
• Customizable: Gluten-free, vegetarian, and spice-level adaptable.
• Perfect for Cold Weather: It’s warm, filling, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• ½ teaspoon ground fennel (optional)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
• 8 ounces pasta (such as ditalini; use gluten-free for gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
• 4 ounces cream cheese, warmed
• ½ cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Brown the Sausage

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage.
2. Break it into crumbles using a spatula.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
4. Remove sausage from the pot and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics

5. In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
6. Add chopped garlic, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
7. Stir in ground fennel and red pepper flakes (if using).

Add Broth and Tomatoes

8. Pour in chicken broth and petite diced tomatoes.
9. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
10. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Cook the Pasta

11. Add pasta and Italian seasoning to the pot.
12. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, or until pasta is al dente.

Stir in the Dairy

13. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
14. Add cream cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted.
15. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine.

Finish the Soup

16. Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
17. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
18. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Garnish and Serve

19. Ladle soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley (optional).
20. Serve immediately with crusty bread or garlic toast.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Don’t skip browning the sausage — it adds depth to the flavor.
• Use room temperature cream cheese to help it melt smoothly.
• For a spicier soup, increase red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Use gluten-free pasta or substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Make it vegetarian by using veggie sausage and broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with toasted baguette, garlic knots, or grilled cheese.
• Add a side salad with Italian dressing for a complete meal.
• Top each bowl with extra parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Storage / Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: For best texture, freeze without the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the soup.

FAQs

Can I freeze this soup with the pasta in it?
It’s best to freeze it without pasta, as pasta can become mushy when reheated from frozen.

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, just be sure to season it well to mimic the flavors of Italian sausage.

Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild kick. To reduce heat, omit the red pepper flakes and use mild sausage.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Try mascarpone or a spoonful of sour cream for similar creaminess.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and vegan cheese alternatives. Flavor will change, but still tasty.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup delivers rich, comforting flavors in every spoonful. With bold Italian spices, creamy broth, and hearty pasta, it’s a simple yet luxurious one-pot meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or storing it for meal prep, this recipe is sure to earn repeat status in your kitchen.

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