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.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 45 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Can be made gluten-free with gluten-free pasta
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup, Italian Sausage Soup, Comfort Soup, Easy Italian Soup, Sausage Pasta Soup, Cozy Dinner