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Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup with Italian Sausage

Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup with Italian Sausage

Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup with Italian Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that combines spicy Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich Parmesan-infused creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this flavorful soup is simple to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable to suit various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or orzo)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Aromatics & Fats

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

Seasonings & Herbs

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, optional, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sausage: Remove the Italian sausage from its casing and crumble into a large pot over medium heat. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add olive oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant to build the soup’s aromatic base.
  3. Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, allowing the pasta to soak up the flavorful broth.
  4. Stir in Cream and Parmesan: Lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
  5. Season and Simmer: Add salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes to meld all flavors together beautifully.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or thyme on top. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your comforting Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup with Italian Sausage.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth melting.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; slightly undercook it as it will soften further after adding cream.
  • Drain excess fat from the cooked sausage to avoid an oily soup.
  • For lighter creaminess, substitute half-and-half or milk and add cheese gradually.
  • For added texture and nuttiness, toast pasta briefly in the pot before adding broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup, Italian Sausage Soup, Comfort Soup, Easy Italian Soup, Sausage Pasta Soup, Cozy Dinner