Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
A rich and comforting creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup featuring flavorful Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a luscious blend of cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan. This hearty soup is perfect for a satisfying dinner and combines classic Italian flavors with a creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Broth and Tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta such as ditalini (gluten-free for gluten-free option)
Dairy
- 1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano (Parmesan), grated
- 4 ounces cream cheese (warmed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipping cream)
Instructions
- Cook Sausage and Onion. In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage while breaking it apart until browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, then drain any excess grease from the pan.
- Add Garlic and Spices. Stir in the chopped garlic, ground fennel, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about one minute until the mixture is fragrant.
- Add Broth, Tomatoes, Pasta, and Seasoning. Pour in the chicken broth and can of petite diced tomatoes. Add the pasta and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered until the pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Cream. Stir in the grated Parmesan, warmed cream cheese, and heavy cream. Let the cheeses melt into the soup, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
- Season and Garnish. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Mix in chopped fresh parsley if using. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy Parmesan Italian sausage soup.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta such as gluten-free ditalini or small shells.
- Ground fennel adds authentic Italian flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- To reduce fat, use turkey sausage and substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Warming the cream cheese before adding helps it incorporate smoothly into the soup.
- The soup can be made ahead and reheated gently to retain creaminess.
