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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

As the chilly weather sets in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. Infused with robust flavours, it marries the rich taste of Italian sausages with creamy goodness and a medley of vegetables. Make this delightful dish your new go-to for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 450g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery sticks, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 courgette, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 litre chicken or vegetable stock
• 250ml single cream
• 100g grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break up any large pieces. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and courgette, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Add the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.

3. Add Stock:
   Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits of sausage or vegetables. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

4. Incorporate Cream and Cheese:
   Once the soup has simmered, stir in the single cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Heat the mixture gently until warmed through, but do not boil. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

5. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan and fresh parsley. For an extra touch, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy goodness.

Enjoying Your Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a versatile dish that can be adjusted according to your taste. Feel free to add in other vegetables, such as spinach or kale, for added nutrition, or substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian version.

With its comforting flavours and creamy texture, this soup is ideal for the whole family and can even be made in advance and reheated. It’s sure to become a cherished recipe in your household, perfect for those cold evenings when all you want is something warm and hearty.

So gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and indulge in the deliciousness of this Italian-inspired soup. Happy cooking!