Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup Recipe

If there’s one soup that knows how to turn a dreary day into a delicious, soul-warming experience, it’s Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup. Packed with robust sausage, velvety cheeses, and a swirl of tender pasta, every spoonful is a cozy hug you’ll want to revisit all winter long—or any time you crave something hearty and full of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup comes together with simple, everyday ingredients, each one adding a layer of richness, zest, or creaminess. Here’s what makes every bite pop and how you can make the most of each element.

• Italian sausage (1 lb, casings removed): Go for spicy or sweet depending on your preference—the sausage brings the deep savory backbone and just the right kick.
• White onion (diced): Offers sweet, mellow flavor and the essential fragrant base for the soup.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Adds a robust, aromatic bite and classic Italian warmth.
• Red pepper flake (1/4 teaspoon): A little heat goes a long way—adjust to your spice preference.
• Chicken broth (4 cups): The foundation for a savory, well-seasoned soup—use low-sodium if you want to control salt.
• Crushed tomatoes (15 oz can): Brings tangy, bright acidity and beautiful color.
• Ditalini pasta (8 oz): These short tubes are perfect for scooping, but feel free to swap in another small pasta.
• Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): An aromatic blend of herbs for that quintessential Italian taste.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated): Melts into the soup for deep, nutty umami flavor—freshly grated makes all the difference.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened & cubed): Adds silkiness and a subtle tang; let it come to room temp for easier melting.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The final touch for a luscious, enveloping texture.
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: To finish and build the perfect balance of flavor.

Variations

Part of the magic of Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup is how easy it is to tailor to your cravings or pantry staples. Swapping in different proteins, herbs, or veggies means every pot can have your personal twist—here are a few favorites to get you started.

• Swap the Sausage: Try turkey sausage for a lighter twist, or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly version that still delivers bold flavor.
• Add Some Greens: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or kale just before serving for an extra nutrient boost and a pop of color.
• Change the Pasta: No ditalini? No problem! Orzo, small shells, or elbow macaroni all work beautifully and soak up the creamy broth.
• Extra Veggie Power: Stir in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots with the onion for a heartier, veggie-packed soup.

How to Make Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onion

Start by heating a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage (with casings removed) and diced onion, breaking the sausage apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté for about 7–9 minutes, until the sausage is browned and the onion is tender and golden around the edges. This step is where the flavor magic begins, as caramelized onions and sausage drippings create a fragrant, savory base.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flake

Sprinkle in the minced garlic and red pepper flake, stirring gently. Let them cook for just about a minute—the garlic will become wonderfully fragrant and the pepper flake will bloom, adding subtle heat and a little complexity to the soup’s base.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth, Tomatoes, and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, ditalini pasta, and Italian seasoning. Bring the whole mixture to a lively boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 6–8 minutes, just until the pasta is perfectly al dente and the flavors have a chance to meld together.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Lower the heat and add in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, cream cheese cubes, and heavy cream. Stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the soup is astonishingly creamy. Taste and adjust with kosher salt and black pepper until every spoonful is perfect and balanced.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your steaming Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup into bowls, top with extra Parmesan or a flurry of fresh herbs, and get ready to be wowed. It’s ready to eat right away, with every ingredient working in harmony for a meal that’s pure comfort.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup

Garnishes

No bowl of Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup is complete without a flourish of garnishes! Sprinkle each portion generously with freshly grated Parmesan for that signature nutty kick, then add a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley for freshness and a splash of green. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a few chili flakes on top can make the soup extra inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup is begging to be served with thick-cut, crusty bread—ciabatta, sourdough, or even cheesy garlic bread work wonders for sopping up the creamy broth. For heartier appetites, a simple green salad or roasted vegetables bring brightness and balance to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, ladle the soup into individual ovenproof crocks, top with even more Parmesan, and broil for a minute until bubbly and golden. Or set up a DIY soup bar with assorted toppings—extra herbs, shredded cheese, and red pepper flakes—so everyone can customize their own bowl of Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup stores beautifully! Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days—just note that the pasta will continue to absorb some liquid, so the soup will thicken a bit over time.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta, since thawed pasta can turn mushy. Simply make the soup through the simmering step, omitting the ditalini, and let it cool completely. Freeze in portions for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to serve, reheat and add freshly cooked pasta before finishing with the cheeses and cream.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring now and then to keep it creamy—add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen it up. If the soup has thickened too much overnight, that extra liquid will restore its gorgeous, spoonable texture in no time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If comfort food with a little Italian flair is calling your name, this Italian Sausage Parmesan Soup will answer in the most delicious way. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or simply looking for a bowl of creamy, cozy happiness, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try—you might just discover your new favorite soup night tradition!

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