Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Here’s a delicious recipe for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
   • Add the chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add Cream and Parmesan:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the soup to become creamy.
5. Finish the Soup:
   • Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad.

Enjoy your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup!