Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Warm up your chilly evenings with a bowl of our savory Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup! Packed with rich flavors and comforting ingredients, this hearty soup will surely become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• 1. In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Add in the diced onions and garlic, cooking until translucent.
• 2. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 20 minutes.
• 3. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
• 4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Popular Questions:

• Q: Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

A: Yes, you can substitute turkey sausage for Italian sausage in this recipe if you prefer a lighter option.

• Q: Can I use skim milk instead of heavy cream?

A: While heavy cream adds richness to the soup, you can use skim milk as a lighter alternative.

• Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, you can freeze this soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and reheat before serving.

• Q: Can I add vegetables like spinach or kale?

A: Yes, feel free to add spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor. Simply stir in chopped greens at the end of cooking.

• Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

A: Absolutely! Brown the sausage and onions in a pan, then transfer everything to a slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours.

• Q: How can I make this soup spicier?

A: Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.

• Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

A: Fresh herbs can be used as well. Double the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried for best flavor.

• Q: Can I use whole milk instead of heavy cream?

A: Whole milk can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, but the soup will be less creamy and rich.

• Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

A: Yes, you can use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option. The flavor will be slightly different.

• Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free?

A: Substitute gluten-free ingredients like GF sausage and broth to make this soup suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Helpful Tips:

• Add a pinch of nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Top the soup with crumbled crispy bacon for added texture.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
• For a thicker consistency, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of broth and stir into the soup.
• Experiment with different types of sausage like spicy Italian or chicken sausage for variety.
• Garnish the soup with a drizzle of olive oil for a finishing touch.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more herbs or spices.
• Simmer the soup on low heat for a longer time to enhance the flavors even more.
• For a low-carb option, omit the diced tomatoes and use cauliflower rice instead.
• Freeze leftover soup in individual portions for quick and easy meals later on.

Expert Secrets:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Let the soup cool slightly before adding the heavy cream to prevent curdling.
• For a smokier flavor, use smoked Italian sausage instead of regular.
• Add a splash of white wine to deglaze the pan after browning the sausage for extra depth of flavor.
• Try garnishing the soup with a dollop of pesto for a burst of freshness.
• Make a double batch of the soup and freeze half for a convenient meal later on.
• Stir in a handful of cooked pasta like penne or bowtie for a heartier version of the soup.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more cream or broth as needed.
• Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Serve the soup with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick of spice.