Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Brown the sausage: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
3. Add broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook potatoes: If using potatoes, add them now and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until fork-tender.
5. Add cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. Let simmer on low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is melted and smooth.
6. Add spinach: Stir in spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes until wilted.
7. Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan, cracked black pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

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