Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (plus more for serving)

1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the Sausage:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same pot, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Broth:

• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken or vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Make it Creamy:

• Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Add the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir until everything is well combined.

Add Greens:

• Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the greens are wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting, creamy soup with crusty bread!

This hearty soup is perfect for cozy nights, combining the flavors of Italian sausage with creamy goodness and nutritious greens!