Sausage Parmesan Soup: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Sausage Parmesan Soup: Prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian trattoria with every spoonful of this incredibly flavorful and comforting soup! Imagine the rich aroma of browned Italian sausage mingling with the savory depth of Parmesan cheese, all simmered in a hearty tomato broth. This isn’t just soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a taste of authentic Italian comfort food.

While the exact origins of Sausage Parmesan Soup are debated, its roots undoubtedly lie in the resourceful kitchens of Italian grandmothers, who knew how to transform simple ingredients into culinary masterpieces. Parmesan cheese, a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, adds a salty, umami-richness that elevates this soup to another level. It’s a testament to the Italian philosophy of “cucina povera,” or “poor cooking,” where humble ingredients are transformed into something truly special.

People adore this soup for its incredible depth of flavor and satisfying texture. The combination of savory sausage, tangy tomatoes, and nutty Parmesan creates a symphony of tastes that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip up a batch of this delicious soup in under an hour. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

1. First, let’s get started by browning the sausage. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble it well so you don’t have large chunks in your soup.
2. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the rendered fat in the pot – this will add tons of flavor to our soup! If there’s an excessive amount of fat, you can drain off a little, but don’t get rid of it all.
3. Now, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be nice and tender, not burnt.
4. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Building the Soup Base

1. Time to add the tomatoes! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
2. Pour in the chicken broth. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are packed with flavor and will really enhance the soup.
3. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15-20 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste!

Finishing Touches and Serving

1. After simmering, stir in the cooked sausage and cooked pasta. Heat through for a few minutes, until everything is warmed. If you add the pasta too early, it might get mushy, so it’s best to add it towards the end.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the cream is fully incorporated. The heavy cream adds richness and the Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty, cheesy flavor.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to suit your taste.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes is also a nice touch if you like a little heat.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.
• Use different pasta: You can use any small pasta shape you like, such as elbow macaroni or orzo.
• Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the sausage. You can add some white beans or lentils for protein.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Brown the sausage and vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and pasta). Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and cooked pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Freezing Instructions: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. It’s best to add the pasta after thawing and reheating, as pasta can become mushy when frozen.
• Make Ahead: You can make the soup a day or two in advance. The flavors will meld together even more as it sits in the refrigerator. Just add the pasta right before serving.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Why This Recipe Works:

This Sausage Parmesan Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of Italian sausage, vegetables, and creamy Parmesan broth creates a rich and satisfying soup. The addition of pasta makes it a complete meal. The recipe is also very versatile – you can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or pasta shapes. The slow cooker option makes it even more convenient for busy weeknights. The key to a great soup is to build the flavors in layers. Browning the sausage and vegetables first adds depth and richness. Simmering the soup for a while allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. And finally, adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese at the end creates a creamy and decadent finish.

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even better:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives.
• Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
• Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food combination.

Troubleshooting:

• Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth to thin it out.
• Soup is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it.
• Soup is too bland: Add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
• Sausage is too greasy: Drain off some of the rendered fat after browning the sausage.
• Pasta is mushy: Add the pasta towards the end of cooking and don’t overcook it.

Equipment You’ll Need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Spoon
• Slotted spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Italian sausage: You can use any type of sausage you like, such as sweet Italian sausage, hot Italian sausage, or even turkey sausage.
• Chicken broth: You can use vegetable broth or beef broth instead.
• Heavy cream: You can use half-and-half or milk instead, but the soup will be less creamy.
• Parmesan cheese: You can use Pecorino Romano cheese or Asiago cheese instead.
• Crushed tomatoes: You can use diced tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes instead. If using whole peeled tomatoes, crush them with your hands or a spoon before adding them to the soup.
• Tomato sauce: You can use tomato paste instead. Use about half the amount of tomato paste as you would tomato sauce, and add a little extra chicken broth to compensate for the thicker consistency.

Conclusion:

This Sausage Parmesan Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a flavor explosion that will have you craving it again and again. Seriously, from the savory sausage to the rich, cheesy broth, every spoonful is pure comfort. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. I truly believe this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and what you have on hand. Don’t have Italian sausage? Use chorizo for a spicier kick! Prefer a vegetarian option? Simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach. The possibilities are endless! The creamy texture and the umami from the parmesan cheese create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or any time you’re craving something comforting and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

I love serving this soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping – it’s the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that flavorful broth. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal. For a heartier meal, you can add cooked pasta, such as ditalini or small shells, directly to the soup. If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork sausage and reducing the amount of cream. Another fantastic variation is to add a can of diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy flavor. You could also experiment with different types of cheese. A blend of parmesan and asiago would be absolutely divine! And for those who love a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a delightful kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own!

Make it Your Own!

The beauty of this Sausage Parmesan Soup lies in its adaptability. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a more garlicky flavor, add an extra clove or two of minced garlic. If you like a richer broth, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. The key is to experiment and find what works best for you. I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece! I can’t wait to hear about your experience with this recipe! Please, please, please try it and let me know what you think. Share your photos and comments on social media using #SausageParmesanSoup or tag me in your posts. I’m eager to see your creations and hear about any variations you’ve tried. Happy cooking! I hope this becomes a family favorite for you, just as it has for me. Enjoy! Print