Description
This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and hearty greens in a creamy broth. Perfect for cold days, it’s a quick, flavorful meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups ditalini pasta
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the sausage:
In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break up the sausage as it cooks, stirring until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.
2️⃣ Sauté the aromatics:
In the same pot, add the olive oil and diced onion. Cook for about 5 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add broth and seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then add the heavy cream, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Cook the pasta:
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and simmer for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
5️⃣ Combine sausage and spinach:
Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2 minutes or until the spinach has wilted.
6️⃣ Add Parmesan for creaminess:
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and fully incorporates, giving the soup a rich, creamy texture.
7️⃣ Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley for extra flavor and a pop of color. Enjoy while hot!
Notes
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute the pasta with gluten-free ditalini or leave it out and add extra veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Add a smoky touch: Use smoked sausage instead of sweet Italian sausage for a deeper flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6