Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

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Quick Benefits

• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with sausage, pasta, and spinach for a complete, comfort-style meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything is cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup.
• Family Favorite: Great for weeknight dinners and appealing to both kids and adults.
• Customizable: Swap pasta shapes, add veggies, or use different proteins to make it your own.

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Essential Ingredients

• 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

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Preparation Steps

1. In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat, crumbling it as it cooks. Once done, remove it and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent (5 minutes), then add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
4. Stir in heavy cream, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.
5. Add ditalini pasta and simmer until al dente (about 8 minutes).
6. Return the sausage to the pot and stir in spinach. Cook until wilted (around 2 minutes).
7. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan until fully melted.
8. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.

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Health Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Italian sausage and Parmesan add a hearty dose of protein.
• Leafy Greens: Spinach is rich in iron, vitamins A & C, and antioxidants.
• Bone Health: Parmesan cheese provides calcium.
• Comfort Food: While indulgent, the soup includes real, wholesome ingredients and can be lightened with healthy swaps.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread, garlic knots, or buttery crackers.
• Add a side salad for a fresh contrast—arugula with lemon vinaigrette works well.
• Garnish with red pepper flakes, a drizzle of olive oil, or more Parmesan for extra flair.

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Creative Variations

• Swap the Protein: Try ground turkey, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage.
• Low-Carb Version: Omit the pasta and double the spinach.
• Add Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots can add texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different cheesy note.

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Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions without the pasta (to prevent sogginess) for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

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Pro Tips

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it can get mushy as it sits in the soup.
• Grate fresh Parmesan instead of using pre-shredded for better flavor and melting.
• Add spinach at the end of cooking to preserve its color and nutrients.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Just store it without the pasta and add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Is there a dairy-free option?
You can substitute the cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and onions first, then add everything except the spinach, pasta, and Parmesan. Cook on low for 4–6 hours, then stir in cooked pasta, spinach, and cheese before serving.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?
Any small pasta like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo will work beautifully.

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