This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting bowl of rich flavors and hearty goodness. It combines the spicy, savory taste of Italian sausage with creamy broth, tender vegetables, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that melts perfectly into the soup. The texture is smooth and velvety, balanced by chunks of sausage and veggies that keep every spoonful interesting and filling.
I love making this soup on chilly evenings when I want something warm and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours cooking. The sausage gives it such a great depth of flavor, and the Parmesan adds a lovely salty kick that makes it feel special without any extra fuss. One tip I always use is to let the soup simmer just long enough for the flavors to meld together, which makes a big difference in taste.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or when friends come over and you want to impress without stressing. This soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and I find myself coming back to it again and again whenever I crave something both creamy and filling.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the flavor star! Use mild or spicy based on your taste. If you need a lighter option, try turkey sausage or plant-based sausage.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds great saltiness. Pecorino Romano works well too, or omit for a dairy-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and a mild earthiness. You can swap with kale or Swiss chard, just cook a little longer for tougher greens.
Ditalini Pasta: Small pasta helps scoop up the broth. Feel free to use mini shells, orzo, or leave out for a low-carb option.
How Can You Get a Creamy, Smooth Soup Without It Breaking?
Adding cream and cheese can sometimes cause curdling if not done carefully. Here’s how to keep it smooth:
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer before adding cream.
- Stir the cream in slowly to temper the temperature.
- Add the Parmesan gradually, stirring constantly to melt fully before adding more.
- Don’t boil the soup hard after adding the cream and cheese; gentle heat keeps it silky.
Following these steps helps create that lovely creamy texture without lumps, making every spoonful rich and smooth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – I like using this because it heats evenly and handles all the ingredients without spilling.
- Wooden spoon – perfect for stirring and breaking up the sausage smoothly.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion and spinach easily.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep everything precise and simple.
- Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and meltiness.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner version.
- Swirl in some pesto or add red pepper flakes for extra flavor and spice.
- Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a different green.
- Top with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh finish.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini or small pasta tubes
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so you’re looking at roughly 35 minutes total before you can enjoy your creamy, comforting soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up into small pieces with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté it in the sausage drippings until it becomes soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a tasty base for your soup.
3. Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Herbs:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the dried basil and oregano. Bring everything to a boil to start cooking the pasta.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 8 to 10 minutes. This little pasta makes the soup hearty and filling.
5. Add Spinach:
Lower the heat to a simmer. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and cook just until it’s wilted, about 2 minutes. This adds a fresh, healthy touch to your soup.
6. Stir in Cream and Parmesan:
Slowly add the heavy cream while stirring gently. Then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring until it melts into the soup, creating a rich and creamy broth.
7. Season and Simmer:
Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer gently for another 3 to 5 minutes so all the flavors blend beautifully.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of black pepper if you like. Serve it hot alongside crusty bread for dunking into that delicious creamy broth.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Soup?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the sausage in the fridge overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and ensures it cooks through properly.
How Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Try substituting the heavy cream with canned coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor.
Can I Prepare This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Make the soup up to 2 days in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
