Warm your soul with this hearty and delicious Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! Packed with savory flavors and creamy goodness, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or to impress your guests at a dinner party.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil, chopped for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and incorporated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 380
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fat: 30g
– Fiber: 1g
**Popular questions:**
1. **Can I use any type of Italian sausage?**
– You can use sweet or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference, both will work well in this recipe.
2. **Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?**
– Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, just make sure to chop them finely before adding to the soup.
3. **Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?**
– You can use half and half or milk for a lighter version, but the soup might not be as creamy.
4. **Can I freeze this soup for later?**
– Yes, you can freeze this soup, but it’s best to freeze before adding the heavy cream to prevent separation.
5. **Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?**
– Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
6. **Can I add more vegetables to this soup?**
– Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
7. **Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?**
– You can cook the sausage and onions in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker to simmer on low for a few hours.
8. **How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?**
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
9. **Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?**
– You can use grated Romano or Asiago cheese as substitutes for Parmesan.
10. **How can I make this soup spicier?**
– Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
**Helpful tips:**
1. For an extra depth of flavor, use Italian sausage with fennel seeds.
2. Stir in a handful of spinach right before serving for added color and nutrition.
3. Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
4. Add a splash of white wine along with the tomatoes for a sophisticated touch.
5. To make it gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth and Italian sausage are gluten-free.
6. Customize the soup with your favorite herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
7. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
8. For a thicker consistency, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water and stir into the soup.
9. Top each serving with a drizzle of olive oil for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Experiment with different types of sausages like chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Browning the Italian sausage first enhances the flavor of the soup.
2. Simmering the soup on low heat allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3. Adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese according to your preference for creaminess.
4. Stir the soup frequently to prevent the cream from curdling.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
6. Freshly chopped basil adds a bright and fresh flavor to the finished soup.
7. Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.
8. Use a high-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.
9. Experiment with different types of sausage for unique flavor combinations.
10. Don’t skimp on the Parmesan cheese – it’s the key ingredient that makes this soup irresistible.
