Sausage Soup Recipe

If you have a craving for something hearty, comforting, and full of rich flavors, this Sausage Soup is the perfect answer. It’s a creamy, savory bowl of goodness that brings together tender Italian sausage, tangy tomatoes, and a luscious blend of cheeses, creating a symphony of taste with every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug, this Sausage Soup will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward creating this delicious Sausage Soup. Each one plays an essential role, whether it’s building the hearty base, adding a kick of flavor, or giving the soup that irresistible creamy texture. These simple ingredients come together beautifully to form something truly special.

• Extra virgin olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity note and helps sauté the onions perfectly without burning.
• White onion (½ small, diced): Provides a mild sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor base.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): A must-have aromatic boost that brightens every component.
• Mild Italian sausage (1 pound): The star protein that brings savory, juicy richness to the dish.
• Tomato paste (6 ounces): Concentrated tomato flavor that adds body and a slight tanginess.
• Diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces): Offers juicy chunks and freshness with a bit of acidity.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend to enhance the classic Italian vibe of this soup.
• Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): Balances and elevates all the flavors in the pot.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of warmth and mild heat.
• Cream cheese (½ cup): Gives the soup its silky, creamy texture that feels indulgent.
• Chicken broth (1 cup): Creates a flavorful, savory liquid base without overpowering the sausage.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the soup rich and luscious, perfect for cozy nights.
• Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Adds a salty, nutty finish that perfectly complements the sausage.

How to Make Sausage Soup

Step 1: Cook the Onions

Start by heating a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced white onions and cook them gently until they become soft and translucent, which usually takes just a few minutes. This step lays down a sweet and mild foundation for the rest of the soup.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Once the onions are tender, toss in the minced garlic and cook it for an additional minute. Garlic should be fragrant but not browned, so watch it closely, as this will release aromatic oils that wake up the whole kitchen.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Now it’s time for the mild Italian sausage to join the party. Add the sausage meat to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains, stirring frequently to ensure even browning. That savory meatiness is what gives this soup such a wonderful depth of flavor.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Seasonings

Next, stir in the tomato paste and diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. These ingredients bring brightness and complexity, balancing the richness of the sausage with a slightly tangy, zesty backdrop.

Step 5: Stir in Cream Cheese and Broth

Add the cream cheese and chicken broth to the mix. The cream cheese melts into the hot liquid, infusing the soup with creamy texture and a subtle tang, while the broth ensures the consistency is perfectly soupy and rich.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Heavy Cream

Finish by stirring in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This combination intensifies the creaminess and adds a luxurious smoothness that truly transforms the soup into something extraordinary.

Step 7: Simmer and Marry Flavors

Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the Sausage Soup simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This final step allows all the ingredients to meld together fully, creating a cohesive and comforting bowl of flavor.

How to Serve Sausage Soup

Garnishes

Elevate your Sausage Soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Add more grated Parmesan cheese on top to really bring out that rich, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast, perfect for dunking and savoring every last drop. A simple green salad offers a crisp contrast that lightens the meal without stealing the spotlight from the soup itself.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Sausage Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It’s a charming presentation that impresses guests and adds a bit of extra flavor as the bread soaks up the creamy broth. Alternatively, top with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of chili oil for a surprising kick.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Sausage Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness and flavor, so you can enjoy quick, delicious meals throughout the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup, but for the best texture, consider freezing before adding the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. When ready to eat, thaw overnight and stir in the dairy ingredients fresh to keep the soup creamy and decadent.

Reheating

Warm your leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back up to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will add a lovely heat to the Sausage Soup, so adjust the seasoning accordingly and enjoy the extra kick.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your sausage and broth are gluten-free, this recipe naturally avoids gluten-containing ingredients, making it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

The sausage is key to the flavor here, but you could substitute it with a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms to create a tasty vegetarian version.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, mascarpone or a mild ricotta cheese can work in a pinch to provide similar creaminess and richness.

How thick is this soup supposed to be?

This sausage soup has a creamy, thick broth, but it should still be spoonable and comforting rather than overly thick like a stew. Adjust by adding broth or cream as needed.

Final Thoughts

Making Sausage Soup at home is truly a joy, especially when you see how simple ingredients come together to create something rich, creamy, and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this recipe will warm your heart and delight your taste buds. Give it a try, and trust me, it might just become your new favorite comfort food!

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