Introduction to Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Why you’ll love this cozy soup recipe
When the cooler months set in, nothing beats a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Our creamy Italian sausage soup brings together the rich flavors of savory Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and a creamy broth, all simmered to perfection in just 30 minutes. Imagine curling up on the couch with this bowl of goodness while it gently warms you from the inside out!
What makes it even better is how easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. You can easily customize this dish by adjusting the level of spice with red pepper flakes or adding in seasonal veggies like spinach for extra nutrition.
Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep! This soup keeps well in your fridge for several days, making it an excellent option for lunch or an easy dinner throughout the week. Want to learn more about Italian ingredients? Check out this guide from The Spruce Eats for the lowdown on what to keep stocked in your kitchen.
So gather your ingredients and let’s dive into this creamy Italian sausage soup recipe—it’s a cozy favorite you won’t want to miss!
Ingredients for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Essentials for a hearty bowlful
When it comes to whipping up a creamy Italian sausage soup, having the right ingredients is key. Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting dish that’s bound to warm you up on chilly nights.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding flavor.
- Yellow Onion: Diced, it brings sweetness and depth.
- Ground Italian Sausage: The star of the show, delivering that savory punch.
- Garlic: Minced, because nothing beats that aromatic goodness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Just a teaspoon adds a hint of heat.
- Italian Seasoning: A must for that classic flavor profile.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning.
- Chicken Broth: The base that brings everything together.
- Fire-Roasted Diced Tomatoes: Adds a delightful tanginess.
- Ditalini Pasta: Perfect for soaking up all that creamy goodness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated, it adds richness.
- Cream Cheese and Milk: For that signature creaminess.
- Parsley: Chopped for garnish and a fresh finish, if desired.
These ingredients come together to create a dish you’ll want to enjoy all week long. Experiment with variations or check out ideas from sources like EatingWell for more inspirations!
Step-by-step preparation of Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Creating a delicious bowl of creamy Italian sausage soup is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps to whip up a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Let’s dive into the savory journey of making this delightful soup!
Sauté the onions and cook the sausage
Begin by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a diced yellow onion and sauté it until it begins to soften, releasing its sweet aroma. This process usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Once the onion is translucent, it’s time to add 1 pound of ground Italian sausage. Continue cooking the sausage until it’s browned all over, making sure to drain any excess grease. Remember, this step is crucial as it forms the flavor base of your creamy Italian sausage soup!
Add in the flavorful spices and garlic
Now that your sausage is nicely browned, it’s time to add in the flavors that will take your soup to the next level. Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Sauté these ingredients together for about a minute. This will infuse the oil with tons of flavor! As the garlic cooks, your kitchen will be filled with an incredible aroma—can you smell it?
Incorporate broth and tomatoes
Next, pour in 5 cups of chicken broth and a can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces, undrained). Bring this delightful mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat to a simmer. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully! Don’t forget to stir occasionally to keep things well combined.
Mix in the ditalini pasta
Add 2 cups of uncooked ditalini pasta to the simmering pot. Give it a good stir and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. This little pasta shapes are perfect for soup and will soak up all those incredible flavors. Just be sure to stir frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Final touches with cheese and cream
Once your pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add half a cup of freshly grated Parmesan and 2 ounces of room-temperature cream cheese into the pot. Pour in half a cup of milk for extra creaminess. Stir everything together until the cheeses melt smoothly into the broth. Taste your soup and season it with additional salt and pepper if needed. Top it off with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
And there you have it—a delicious, hearty creamy Italian sausage soup ready to be enjoyed! This recipe not only warms the soul but also nourishes your body. For a complete experience, serve with a side of crusty Italian bread. Enjoy!
Variations on Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Spicy Sausage Twist
For those who crave a kick in every spoonful, try adding an extra layer of heat with spicy Italian sausage instead of the regular variety. Include jalapeño or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate your creamy Italian sausage soup even further. You can also experiment with different herbs like cilantro or basil for a unique flavor twist.
Vegetarian Alternative
Looking for a meatless option? Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty chopped mushrooms for a satisfying vegetarian version of this creamy Italian sausage soup. Incorporating kidney beans or lentils can add protein while keeping it rich and filling. Enhance the flavor with a touch of smoked paprika or an umami-rich broth to maintain that delightful depth.
For more inspiration on modifications, check out resources on cooking swaps, like those found on Serious Eats. Your culinary creativity knows no bounds!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Best Practices for Creamy Texture
To achieve a truly creamy texture in your Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, consider a few key steps:
- Use Room Temperature Dairy: Let your cream cheese and milk sit out for a bit before adding them to the soup. This helps them blend smoothly without clumping.
- Gradual Heating: After stirring in the cheeses, keep the heat on low. High temperatures can cause dairy to separate, ruining that silky consistency we all love.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-packaged. The flavor is richer, and it melts beautifully, enhancing the creaminess.
By following these tips, you'll elevate your soup and warm hearts with every bowl. For more tips on creamy soups, check out Food Network’s dairy guidance.
Serving suggestions for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Elevate your Creamy Italian Sausage Soup experience with thoughtful pairings that complement its rich flavors. Begin by serving it alongside a simple, fresh green salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette to enhance the creaminess of the soup. Crusty garlic bread or freshly baked Italian focaccia makes for a delightful accompaniment, perfect for dipping.
For a cozy evening, consider pairing this dish with a light, sparkling water infused with citrus or herbs to cleanse the palate. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of chili flakes on top of your soup to brighten its presentation. These small touches go a long way in creating a memorable meal!
For more serving ideas and tips, check out resources like The Kitchn or EatingWell.
Time Breakdown for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Prep Time
Getting started with your Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a breeze! You’ll need just 5 minutes to chop your ingredients and prepare for cooking.
Cooking Time
Once everything’s prepped, you'll spend about 25 minutes on the stovetop, allowing the flavors to bloom beautifully. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Total Time
In just 30 minutes, you can serve up a satisfying bowl of this comforting soup, ready to warm your evenings and impress your friends. Give it a try, and you'll see how easy homemade goodness can be!
This quick guide not only helps you manage your time effectively but also ensures that you can savor every moment of creating your delectable soup. Want to learn about the nutritional benefits of incorporating ingredients like Italian sausage and ditalini pasta? Check out Healthline for more insights on wholesome meals!
Nutritional Facts for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Calories
Enjoying a warm bowl of Creamy Italian Sausage Soup offers about 400 calories per serving. This makes it a filling choice without derailing your daily intake. Perfect for those cozy weeknights or weekend gatherings!
Protein
Each serving packs around 20 grams of protein, thanks to the hearty combination of ground Italian sausage and added cheese. Protein is vital for energy and muscle health, making this soup not just delicious but also nutritious.
Sodium
Keep in mind, this soup contains approximately 800 mg of sodium per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth and moderation in added salt. Adjust to your preference while keeping the flavors vibrant.
For more insights into healthy eating, you can check out resources from the American Heart Association. Enjoy your savory bowl of goodness without the guilt!
FAQ about Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover creamy Italian sausage soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it's completely cooled before transferring to the container. This way, it’ll stay fresh and delicious for your next meal!
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Allow it to cool to room temperature, then pour it into a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it on the stovetop.
What to do if I want it thicker?
If you're looking to make your creamy Italian sausage soup thicker, consider adding a bit more cream cheese or using a cornstarch slurry. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, stir it into the soup, and let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens. This way, you’ll achieve the perfect consistency for your taste!
For more tips on thickening soups, check out this resource from Cooking Light.
Conclusion on Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
In summary, this delightful creamy Italian sausage soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, blending rich flavors and comforting textures. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Give it a try and warm your soul with every bite! For more delicious soup recipes, check out this link for inspiration.
Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Equipment
- Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounce) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta
- ½ cup Parmesan, freshly grated
- 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped optional
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add the olive oil and diced onion. Cook until the onion starts to soften, then add the ground sausage and continue cooking until the sausage is browned, draining any excess grease.
- Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the broth and tomatoes and bring to a boil. Add the pasta, stir, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot, until it is cooked al dente.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the parmesan, cream cheese, and cream/milk. Stir to combine, allowing the cheeses to melt into the soup, about 2 minutes.
- Season with more salt and pepper to taste, and mix in the parsley.
- Garnish with more Parmesan cheese if desired.
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