Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add Onion, Carrots, and Celery: Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Incorporate Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the hot soup.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan
- Add Cheese: Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Pair with Bread: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Freezing: If you’d like to freeze this soup, it’s best to do so before adding the cream and cheese. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat and add the cream and cheese.
Conclusion
The Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a comforting and delicious meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Its creamy texture, combined with the bold flavors of Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese, makes it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab your ingredients, and let the cooking begin!
