Name: Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and black pepper to taste

Hey y'all! If you're on the hunt for a rich, comforting soup that will warm you from the inside out, this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is about to become your new favorite. Loaded with savory Italian sausage, crisp vegetables, and a luscious parmesan cream base, it's perfect for busy weeknights, chilly weekends, or family gatherings. Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing and your tastebuds dance? Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Ready in under 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
Rich, creamy texture thanks to plenty of parmesan and heavy cream.
Packed with hearty sausage and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal.
Easy to customize with your favorite greens or pasta shapes.
Perfect for meal prep or freezing ahead for later!

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 large carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
Salt & black pepper, to taste

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Transfer sausage to a plate and set aside, draining excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Return the sausage to the pot. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 4: Add Cream, Spinach, and Parmesan

Stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, letting it simmer gently for 5 minutes to thicken slightly. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the creamy parmesan Italian sausage soup into bowls. Top with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread!

Notes for Making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half for some of the heavy cream.
For a thicker texture, mash a few veggies in the pot before adding the cream.
For more about the benefits of using fresh parmesan, check out this guide from Serious Eats.

Variations of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Low Carb: Swap carrots for chopped zucchini or cauliflower.
Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
Pasta Lover's: Add 1 cup of cooked small pasta like ditalini or orzo in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Required Equipment for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Large Dutch oven or soup pot
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Ladle
Measuring cups and spoons

Storage Instructions for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Let the soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the cream and parmesan) for up to 2 months; just add the cream and cheese when reheating for best texture. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well.

Suggested Pairings and Serving Recommendations

Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic knots for dipping.
Add a fresh green salad tossed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Pair with a glass of Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon.

Pro Tips for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Use freshly grated parmesan for the creamiest, smoothest texture. Learn more about cheese grating here.
Brown the sausage thoroughly for maximum flavor development.
Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.

FAQ – Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Can I use kale instead of spinach?: Absolutely! Kale is a hearty green that stands up well in this soup—just chop it finely and add a few minutes earlier so it has time to soften.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?: Simply ensure your sausage and broth are gluten-free, and avoid adding any pasta or bread sides.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?: Yes! This soup reheats beautifully. For the best texture, add the cream and parmesan cheese just before serving if making ahead.

For more soup inspiration and technique tips, check out Simply Recipes’ soup section.

Prep & Cooking Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup