Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, and bell pepper)
- 4 cups of fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup of diced potatoes (for extra heartiness)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano (for more Italian flavor)
- 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (for an earthy note)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage:
- Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove excess grease from the pot.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Build the Broth:
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped vegetables (carrots, celery, bell pepper) to the pot. Let them simmer for about 10 minutes, or until tender.
- Add Creaminess:
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Finish with Spinach:
- Add the fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
Preparation Time and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
