There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup that checks every comfort-food box. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the kind of cozy dish you’ll crave all year round. Rich, savory, and beautifully balanced, it’s loaded with robust Italian sausage, tender spinach, and a luxurious Parmesan cream broth that hugs every spoonful.
Perfect for chilly nights or when you need something deeply satisfying with minimal effort, this recipe is a keeper in every sense. Let’s dive in.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe combines three of my favorite things: bold Italian sausage, velvety cream, and loads of umami from fresh Parmesan. It’s one of those meals that tastes like it simmered all day—but comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Whether I’m feeding a hungry crew or prepping something cozy for myself, this soup never fails. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and more time enjoying that second bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Swaps and Notes
- Sausage: Use sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Turkey or chicken sausage works well too.
- Cream Substitute: Half and half can be used, but the soup won’t be as rich.
- Parmesan: Grate it fresh for best melting and flavor—pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents.
- Greens: Baby kale or chopped Swiss chard make great spinach alternatives.
- Low-Carb Tip: Want fewer carbs? Skip the tomatoes or use fresh diced ones in moderation.
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. - Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. - Simmer the Base
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir, bring to a simmer, and let flavors meld for about 5 minutes. - Cream It Up
Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add the Spinach
Toss in the baby spinach and stir until just wilted, about 2 minutes. - Final Touches
Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Deglaze the Pot: After browning sausage, add a splash of broth before adding the rest—this lifts flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Grate Parmesan Finely: It melts more smoothly into the soup, adding creaminess without clumps.
- Watch the Heat: Keep it at a gentle simmer once cream is added to avoid curdling.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve this soup with crusty garlic bread, a Parmesan breadstick, or a warm piece of buttered sourdough. For drinks, a refreshing glass of Blueberry Lemonade cuts the richness perfectly.
For a bigger dinner spread, try pairing it with these favorites:
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas for a flavor-packed side
- Dorito Casserole if you’re feeding a hungry bunch
- End on a sweet note with Grasshopper Pie
Storage and Leftover Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: This soup freezes well—just leave out the spinach and add fresh when reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently over low heat, stirring often. Add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.
More Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoy this soup, don’t miss these delicious, comforting options:
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo – A bold bowl of Southern comfort
- Dorito Casserole – The ultimate cheesy shortcut dinner
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – Great for quick, hands-off weeknight meals
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is more than just a weeknight lifesaver—it’s rich, soul-warming, and always leaves everyone going back for seconds. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s the kind of recipe that finds its way into the regular rotation fast.
If you make it, let me know what you think in the comments. Snap a photo, tag it @chefmaniac, and don’t forget to follow for more cozy meals and quick favorites.
Leave a Reply