Sausage Soup

Cooking with simple ingredients can create moments that warm the soul. A bowl of sausage soup brings back memories of gathering around the table with loved ones, laughter echoing as we share stories and savor flavors. I remember chilly evenings when my family huddled in the kitchen, the aroma of sausage soup enticing everyone towards the stove.

The beauty of sausage soup lies in its ability to transform casual ingredients into a comforting meal. As the mild Italian sausage simmers with tomatoes and cream, the flavors meld together, creating a rich and satisfying experience in every bite. This soup represents nourishment, warmth, and home.

While life can get hectic, finding time to cook and share these meals remains essential. Each spoonful of sausage soup speaks to the joy of cooking—the excitement of combining various ingredients into one harmonious dish. It’s not merely about feeding the body but also nurturing relationships through shared culinary experiences. With every bowl, we create memories that last a lifetime.

Sausage Soup Basics

Fundamentals

Creating a delicious sausage soup starts with understanding the key components. The richness of the sausage, paired with the acidity of the tomatoes, sets a flavorful foundation. The addition of cream and cheese elevates this dish into something truly indulgent.

The Italian seasoning brings a touch of classic flavor, making each spoonful delightful. This soup comes together using straightforward techniques, making it accessible for anyone looking to create a comforting meal. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a nourishing dish ready to share with family and friends.

Preparation/setup

Gathering the ingredients is the first step in your sausage soup journey. The fresh vegetables, aromatic garlic, and flavorful sausage all play a crucial role. Prepare your kitchen by setting out everything you need: a large pan, a mixing spoon, and measuring cups for precision.

Chopping the onion and mincing the garlic beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Having everything within reach allows you to focus on the cooking experience, turning this preparation into a joyful ritual.

Ingredients

To make this comforting sausage soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ small white onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

These ingredients harmoniously blend to create a soup that is both hearty and comforting.

Directions

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook them until they become slightly soft, stirring to prevent browning. Next, introduce the minced garlic to the pan, allowing its fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen. Cook the garlic for about one minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

Once the onions and garlic are ready, add the sausage meat to the pan. Use a spatula to break it up, stirring frequently until it turns a nice golden brown and is no longer pink. This step builds the foundation of flavor in your sausage soup.

Next, incorporate the tomato paste and diced tomatoes into the mixture. Season with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper, stirring well to combine. Add cream cheese and chicken broth, allowing the creaminess to blend effectively with the tomato base.

Continue by pouring in the heavy cream and sprinkling the Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until fully incorporated, letting the soup simmer gently under a covered lid for about five minutes. This simmering phase allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Finish the dish by garnishing with chopped parsley and a bit more Parmesan for an extra pop of flavor.

Flavor Variations

Technique

Mastering the technique behind sausage soup is all about timing and temperature. Cooking over medium heat ensures that the sausage browns nicely without burning, enhancing the overall flavor.

Don’t rush the process; letting the soup simmer allows the ingredients to impart their flavors effectively into the broth. Each element has its moment to shine, contributing to a well-rounded dish.

Tips/tricks

• For an added depth of flavor, consider browning your sausage well. This caramelization brings out the natural sugars in the meat, resulting in a deeper taste.
• If you love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions. This simple tweak can elevate the entire dish.
• Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme as a garnish. They add brightness and freshness to each serving, enhancing the soup’s overall flavor profile.

Perfecting the Results

Troubleshooting/variations

Sometimes, the soup may come out a bit thick. If this occurs, simply add more chicken broth or water until you achieve your desired consistency. On the other hand, if your soup ends up thinner than expected, you can thicken it with a little cornstarch slurry or by simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes.

Should you prefer vegetarian fare, consider swapping the sausage for a plant-based alternative or mushrooms. This variation maintains the heartiness of the dish while catering to different dietary preferences.

Serving/presentation

Serving sausage soup is all about presentation. Ladle the soup into deep bowls, allowing the vibrant colors to shine. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only adds color but also a hint of freshness.

Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread for a satisfying meal. The combination of textures—creamy soup and crunchy bread—creates a delightful dining experience.

Pairings/storage

Sausage soup pairs wonderfully with various sides; consider serving it alongside a light salad or some buttery garlic bread.

When storing leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to three days, enjoying the flavors as they meld further over time. If you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the heavy cream to maintain the richest texture.

Conclusion

Sausage soup represents more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt experience that brings people together. Each bite encapsulates the warmth and comfort of home cooking. Prepare this delightful dish during chilly nights or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. Let the aroma fill your kitchen, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. Enjoy this recipe, and let it inspire your culinary adventures.

Sausage Soup

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• Author: cov3
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting sausage soup that combines mild Italian sausage with tomatoes and cream for a rich and satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• ½ small white onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound mild Italian sausage
• 1 can (6 ounces) tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup cream cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until slightly soft.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about one minute.
3. Add sausage meat, breaking it up and cooking until golden brown and no longer pink.
4. Incorporate tomato paste and diced tomatoes, seasoning with Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
5. Add cream cheese and chicken broth, letting the creaminess blend with the tomato base.
6. Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully incorporated.
7. Let simmer under a covered lid for about five minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For added flavor, consider browning the sausage well. Adjust thickness of the soup with more broth or by simmering uncovered.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 500
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: sausage soup, comforting soup, Italian recipe, hearty meal, family recipe