A Hearty Bowl of Comfort

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there’s an undeniable pull towards the warmth of a hearty, home-cooked meal. One dish that encapsulates this comfort is the Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup. This rich and creamy soup combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with the smoothness of cream cheese and the sharpness of Parmesan, creating a symphony of taste that warms both body and soul.

The Origins of a Comfort Classic

While the exact origins of this soup are hard to pinpoint, it draws inspiration from traditional Italian flavors and American comfort food sensibilities. The use of Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese roots it in Italian culinary traditions, while the incorporation of cream cheese adds an American twist, resulting in a fusion that has become a favorite in many households.

Why This Soup Stands Out

A Symphony of Flavors

The combination of spicy Italian sausage, tangy cream cheese, and nutty Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that’s both complex and comforting. Each spoonful offers a balance of savory richness and subtle spice, making it a delight for the taste buds.

Texture That Satisfies

Beyond its delightful taste, the soup boasts a creamy, velvety texture, thanks to the blend of heavy cream and melted cheeses. The addition of fresh spinach not only adds a pop of color but also a pleasant contrast in texture, elevating the overall mouthfeel of the dish.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Despite its luxurious taste, this soup is straightforward to prepare. With a total time of just 45 minutes, it’s an excellent option for weeknight dinners or when you need a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen..

Country-Style Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Author: Kellie from The Suburban Soapbox

Ingredients

• For the Steaks:
  • 4 cube steaks (about 1.5 pounds total)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• For the Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup chicken stock or broth
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the Steaks:
   • In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup flour, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
   • In another bowl, whisk together the egg and water.
   • Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels.
   • Dredge each steak in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and again into the flour, ensuring an even coating.
2. Cook the Steaks:
   • Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the coated steaks to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
   • Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
3. Prepare the Gravy:
   • Without cleaning the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 2 tablespoons of flour to the remaining oil and drippings.
   • Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour.
   • Gradually whisk in the chicken stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
   • Add the milk, continuing to whisk until the gravy is smooth and begins to thicken, approximately 2-3 minutes.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Serve:
   • Plate the chicken fried steaks and generously spoon the creamy gravy over each.
   • Serve immediately, ideally with mashed potatoes or your choice of side.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.

Enjoy this classic Country-Style Chicken Fried Steak with Creamy Gravy—a comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy!

Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with certain sides can enhance the dining experience:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots add both color and nutritional value to your meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?

Absolutely. While Italian sausage adds a specific flavor profile, you can substitute it with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version.

2. Is There a Way to Reduce the Caloric Content?

Yes. To make a lighter version of this soup, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduced-fat cream cheese. Additionally, opting for a leaner sausage or a plant-based alternative can help decrease the calorie count.

3. How Can I Thicken or Thin the Soup to My Liking?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the simmering soup until it reaches the desired consistency. To thin the soup, simply add more chicken broth or a splash of milk until it meets your preference.

4. Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?

Certainly. This soup is quite versatile. Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance both the nutritional value and flavor profile.

5. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, do so over low heat to prevent the cream from separating, and stir occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.

6. Is This Soup Suitable for Freezing?

While it’s possible to freeze this soup, be aware that the texture may change slightly upon thawing due to the dairy content. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the cream and cream cheese during the initial preparation. You can add them in when reheating the soup after thawing to maintain a creamy texture.

A Bowl of Warmth and Joy

Incorporating the Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup into your recipe repertoire offers a delightful way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal that’s both easy to prepare and satisfying to the senses. Whether you’re seeking solace on a chilly evening or aiming to impress guests with a hearty dish, this soup is sure to become a cherished favorite.

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