Description

This Sausage Parmesan Cream Cheese Soup is a rich, creamy, and flavor-packed dish that brings warmth to any table. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, tangy Parmesan, and smooth cream cheese creates a velvety texture and deep savory taste. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a comforting bowl of goodness. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal!

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Brown the Sausage:
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned.
- Remove excess grease if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add diced onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Build the Soup Base:
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
- Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
Incorporate the Dairy:
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted.
- Pour in the heavy cream and continue stirring until smooth.
Final Touches:
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted into the soup.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 2 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

- For a Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for turkey sausage.
- Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
- Storage & Reheating: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezing: Dairy-based soups can change texture when frozen, so if freezing, leave out the cream and cream cheese and add them when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stove Top
Cuisine: Italian-American