Hearty Italian Sausage Soup with Creamy Parmesan

Name: Hearty Italian Sausage Soup with Creamy Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3 medium carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm up with this delicious and comforting Hearty Italian Sausage Soup, enriched with creamy Parmesan cheese for an unforgettable flavor.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:07:45.263Z

This Hearty Italian Sausage Soup combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with fresh vegetables and creamy Parmesan cheese, creating a warming dish perfect for any occasion. It's easy to prepare and sure to satisfy your cravings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors from Italian sausage and fresh herbs
Creamy texture from Parmesan cheese that enhances every bite
A comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

This Hearty Italian Sausage Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings, it serves as an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. The combination of rich flavors from the Italian sausage and the creamy texture from the Parmesan cheese makes it a standout dish that everyone will love.

Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a nourishing bowl of soup, this recipe delivers on all fronts. It’s easy to prepare, requiring only one pot and minimal clean-up, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients that not only satisfy your hunger but also provide essential vitamins and minerals. The fresh spinach adds a burst of color and health benefits, including iron and vitamins A and C. Combined with the protein from the Italian sausage, it makes for a well-rounded meal that fuels your body.

Furthermore, the use of chicken broth ensures you get a comforting and hearty base while keeping the soup light and flavorful. Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese contribute to the richness, but you can easily substitute them with lighter options if you’re watching your calorie intake.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Hearty Italian Sausage Soup is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary requirements. For a spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes. If you prefer a vegetarian option, swap the sausage for hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives and add extra veggies.

Feel free to experiment with the herbs as well. While oregano and basil are classic choices, you can introduce other fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. This soup is truly a canvas for your culinary creativity!

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing well. Add the fresh spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your hearty soup!

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the consistency, as it may thicken in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in single-serving portions. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal.

Pairing Suggestions

This Hearty Italian Sausage Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A side of garlic bread is always a hit, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the creamy soup. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a classic Caesar salad to enhance the Italian flavors.

If you’re in the mood for a beverage, a glass of red wine, such as Chianti, complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly. Alternatively, a light, sparkling water with a hint of lemon can refresh your palate between bites.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a lighter version of this soup.

→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a simple green salad.