Comfy Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

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Canada is getting colder and colder as we get into the winter months.

There is nothing better to be than a warm bowl of soup on a cold day.

Today we’re making a Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup.

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like orzo or small shells)

Instructions:

1. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. If using pasta, add it now and cook according to package instructions.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
6. Add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutritional Breakdown

This soup is more than just delicious—it’s nutritionally complex:

• Protein from the Italian sausage supports muscle health
• Spinach adds iron, vitamins A and C
• Parmesan cheese provides calcium and additional protein
• The combination of ingredients creates a balanced, nutrient-dense meal

Grocery List: Ingredients with Purpose

Protein Sources

• 1 pound Italian sausage (primary protein)
• 1 cup heavy cream (fat and protein)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (additional protein and calcium)

Nutrient-Dense Produce

• 1 medium onion (prebiotic fibre)
• 2 cloves garlic (antioxidant properties)
• 2 cups baby spinach (iron, vitamins)

Flavor and Base Ingredients

• Italian seasoning (herb blend)
• 4 cups chicken broth (liquid base)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (added acidity and depth)
• Salt and pepper (seasoning)
• Optional: Small pasta (additional carbohydrates)

Cooking Techniques to Master

Ideal Meat Browning

• Use medium heat
• Allow space between meat pieces
• Stir occasionally to ensure even browning
• Goal: Golden brown colour, not burnt

Preventing Cream Separation

• Add cream slowly
• Maintain a low simmer
• Stir consistently
• Avoid boiling after cream is added

Flavor Modification Techniques

Want to experiment? Consider these scientific adjustments:

• Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey for a leaner protein
• Add a splash of acid (white wine or lemon juice) to brighten the flavours
• Experiment with different herbs to change flavour profiles
• Use different types of cheese to alter creaminess and taste