Rich and Creamy Italian Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Creamy Italian Soup is a cozy, flavor-packed dish loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a luscious creamy broth. Inspired by classic Tuscan flavors, this hearty soup is satisfying enough for a full meal yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. It’s comfort food at its finest—perfect with crusty bread or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

Italian sausagediced oniongarlic clovescarrotsceleryrusset or Yukon Gold potatoeschicken brothheavy cream or half-and-halfkale or spinachcrushed red pepper flakes (optional)olive oilsaltblack pepperParmesan cheese (optional for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Return sausage to the pot and add diced potatoes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Stir in the heavy cream and add chopped kale or spinach. Simmer for another 5 minutes until greens are wilted and soup is creamy.

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30 minutesTotal time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.

Add white beans or cannellini beans for extra heartiness.

Swap kale for Swiss chard or baby spinach.

Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for added depth and tang.

Make it dairy-free with coconut cream or a plant-based substitute.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much in storage.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats very well—great for meal prep.

Can I freeze this soup?

Cream-based soups may separate when frozen, but it’s possible. Reheat slowly and stir well.

What type of sausage works best?

Mild or spicy Italian sausage, either bulk or links with casing removed.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

Is it very spicy?

Only if you add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage. Adjust to taste.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Whole milk works best.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional—Yukon Gold works well with skin on.

Can I add pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo can be added. Cook separately or add in the last 10 minutes.

How thick is this soup?

It’s creamy but not overly thick—adjust consistency with more broth or cream.

What can I serve it with?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light salad make great sides.

Conclusion

Rich and Creamy Italian Soup is a soul-warming bowl of comfort, full of hearty ingredients and Italian-inspired flavors. Whether you’re cooking for the family or preparing meals ahead, this soup is both simple and satisfying. One spoonful and you’ll see why it’s destined to become a regular favorite at your table.

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