Creamy Sausage Soup – Best Quick Dinner Recipe

Creamy Sausage Soup – Best Quick Dinner Recipe

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introduction

Creamy Sausage Soup is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy cheeses and pasta, creating a hearty meal that warms both the body and soul. It is the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight, offering both comfort and convenience in every bowl. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

why make this recipe

There are many reasons to fall in love with Creamy Sausage Soup. First and foremost, it is an incredibly quick and easy dish to prepare. In just under 30 minutes, you can whisk together a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you are cooking for a large family or just a few friends, this soup fits the bill.

Additionally, the ingredients are affordable and can often be found in your pantry or local grocery store, so you won’t have to make a special trip to collect what you need. The versatility of this recipe is another advantage; you can easily adjust the flavor by using different types of sausage or swapping out herbs based on what you have on hand.

Another reason to make this recipe is its wholesome nature. Packed with protein from the sausage, fiber from the tomatoes, and carbohydrates from the ditalini pasta, this hearty soup provides a balanced meal. The added creaminess from cream cheese and Parmesan gives it that extra comfort food vibe, making it perfect for cold nights or any time you need a cozy dish.

how to make Creamy Sausage Soup

Making Creamy Sausage Soup is a straightforward process that even novice cooks can master. Here’s a breakdown of the steps you need to follow to create this delightful meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• ½ cup diced onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
• 8 oz ditalini pasta
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup fresh basil (or parsley for garnish)

Directions:

1. Brown the Sausage: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Allow the sausage to cook until browned, which should take about 5–7 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it to keep the soup from being too greasy.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, which will take about 3 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.

3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Stir the mixture well to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper.

4. Cook the Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the soup and let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta becomes tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Incorporate the Creaminess: Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and mix in the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until both cheeses are fully melted and the soup becomes thick and creamy.

6. Serve: Ladle the creamy sausage soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley as desired.

how to serve Creamy Sausage Soup

Creamy Sausage Soup is best served warm. To enhance the experience, consider offering crusty bread or garlic toast on the side. A side salad can also complement the meal, adding fresh vegetables to balance the richness of the soup. For an extra twist, you can sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top or serve with crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

This dish can also be plated in several creative ways. Consider using bread bowls for a fun and interactive dining option. If you’re hosting a gathering, you could set up a "soup bar" where guests can customize their bowls with various toppings—like additional herbs, cheeses, or even a dollop of sour cream.

how to store Creamy Sausage Soup

If you have any leftovers, storing them is easy. First, allow the soup to cool to room temperature. Next, transfer the soup into an airtight container. Creamy Sausage Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, making sure to leave a bit of space at the top as the liquid may expand when frozen. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if necessary to loosen it up.

tips to make Creamy Sausage Soup

1. Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Depending on your taste, you can go for mild or spicy Italian sausage. Turkey sausage is a lighter alternative that can also work well.

2. Add Vegetables: Feel free to sneak in some extra vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers, to increase the nutritional value of the soup.

3. Make it Gluten-Free: If you need a gluten-free version, swap out ditalini pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties.

4. Cook Accordingly: Cook the pasta to al dente if you plan to have leftovers as it will continue cooking in the stored soup.

5. Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer an even creamier soup, consider adding in some heavy cream or half-and-half in addition to the cream cheese.

variation

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider trying some variations:

• Cheesy Sausage Soup: Add a variety of cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar for an even cheesier experience.
• Spicy Southwest Twist: Add in some diced jalapeños, corn, and black beans for a southwest-style sausage soup.
• Herbed Variation: Swap garden-fresh basil for other herbs like thyme or oregano to give the soup a different flavor profile.
• Sausage and Bean Soup: Introduce some white beans to make the soup heartier and offer a different texture.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! If you prefer a different pasta shape, feel free to substitute ditalini with shells, elbows, or any small pasta that will soak up the soup’s flavors.

Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Creamy Sausage Soup can be made in advance. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just remember to store it properly and reheat before serving.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic beforehand, then place them in a slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients (except for the cream cheese and Parmesan). Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan before serving.

How do I fix it if the soup is too thick?
If the soup ends up too thick, simply add a bit more broth or even some water until you reach your desired consistency.

How can I make it dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese product, and use nutritional yeast as a substitute for Parmesan.

With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and satisfying ingredients, Creamy Sausage Soup is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy making it and savoring this delicious meal!

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