If you are craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe will quickly become your go-to. Packed with rich, savory sausage and tender potatoes swimming in a luscious, velvety broth, this soup perfectly balances creamy texture with bold Italian flavors. It’s the kind of dish that lifts your spirits on chilly days while being incredibly straightforward to prepare, making it a favorite for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in the simplicity and heartiness of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating depth, creaminess, and that irresistible Italian flavor profile you’ll want to savor again and again.
- Italian Sausage, 16 ounces: Choose quality sausage for rich Italian herbs and spices that form the soup’s savory base.
- Butter, 1/4 cup: Adds a silky richness and helps soften the veggies, building the flavor foundation.
- Onion, 1/2 medium, chopped small: Brings sweet aromatic notes that balance the sausage’s robustness.
- Celery, 2 sticks, chopped small: Adds subtle earthiness and a bit of crunch for texture contrast.
- Garlic, 2 cloves, minced: Intensifies the flavor with its signature, aromatic punch.
- Flour, 6 tablespoons: Thickens the broth to that perfectly creamy consistency everyone loves.
- Low Sodium Chicken Broth, 4 cups: Provides a savory liquid base that allows all flavors to meld beautifully.
- Half-and-Half, 2 cups: Creates the luscious creaminess without overpowering richness.
- Worcestershire Sauce, 1 teaspoon: Adds an unexpected depth and umami that elevate the soup.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes, 1/2 teaspoon (optional): Gives a gentle, warming kick to balance the creaminess.
- Russet Potatoes, 1 pound, peeled & diced small: The perfect hearty vegetable that soaks up the flavors while adding body.
- Salt & Pepper, to taste: Essential to brighten and balance the final flavor profile.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by adding the Italian sausage meat to a large soup pot. Cook over medium heat until the sausage is thoroughly browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This process releases the flavorful oils and herbs, which become the heart of your soup. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, keeping the pot ready for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Make the Roux
In the same pot, melt the butter and add the finely chopped onion and celery. Sauté these until they soften and start to turn translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and immediately sprinkle the flour over the mixture. Cooking the flour for about 2 minutes is key—it eliminates any raw flour taste and helps build that silky roux that will thicken the soup beautifully.
Step 3: Add Liquids and Potatoes
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps from forming, then pour in the half-and-half. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and crushed red pepper flakes, if you like a subtle heat. Add the diced potatoes and return the browned sausage to the pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the potatoes to soften and the flavors to meld into a creamy, comforting soup.
Step 4: Season and Serve
After the simmering stage, taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. This final step lets you tailor the flavors perfectly. Serve the soup hot for the best experience—its creamy Italian sausage flavors really shine when enjoyed fresh from the pot.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While the soup is luxurious on its own, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds color and an extra layer of taste that complements the creamy richness perfectly. For a touch of brightness, a squeeze of lemon juice can awaken the flavors delightfully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every last drop of its creamy broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the meal with freshness and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for an inviting, cozy presentation that doubles as an edible dish. You can also ladle it over cooked pasta or rice for an extra hearty twist on the classic Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient and delicious option for leftovers.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to leave some room at the top of your container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or half-and-half to loosen it back up. This step preserves the richness and keeps your Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe tasting fresh.
FAQs
Can I use spicy Italian sausage for this soup?
Absolutely! Using spicy sausage adds an extra kick to the soup, which can be nicely balanced by the creaminess. Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes accordingly to suit your heat preference.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
While the sausage is central to this recipe’s flavor, you can substitute it with hearty plant-based sausage or add mushrooms and extra vegetables to maintain a satisfying texture and depth.
Can I use milk instead of half-and-half?
You can, but the soup will be less rich and creamy. To keep the texture closer to the original, consider using whole milk or adding a little heavy cream.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Add a slurry of flour mixed with cold water or allow the soup to simmer a bit longer so the potatoes break down more, naturally thickening the broth.
Can I prepare this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding half-and-half near the end to maintain creaminess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that fills your home with cozy Italian vibes and satisfies your cravings without any fuss, the Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe is a must-try. Its rich, comforting flavors and simple preparation make it a standout that you’ll want to return to season after season. Give it a whirl—your taste buds will thank you!
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Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Italian sausage soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and a rich, creamy broth flavored with garlic, onion, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce, this soup offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors that will warm you up from the inside out.
Ingredients
Meat
- 16 ounces Italian Sausage
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped small
- 2 celery sticks, chopped small
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled & diced small
Dairy & Fats
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups half-and-half
Liquids & Sauces
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Others
- 6 tablespoons flour
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt & Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage meat to a soup pot over medium heat. Cook it until browned, about 10 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon to crumble the meat. Once browned, transfer it to a paper towel lined plate to drain excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables and Make Roux: In the same pot, add the butter, chopped onion, and celery. Sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and flour, stirring and cooking for 2 more minutes to form a roux that will thicken the soup.
- Add Liquids and Potatoes: Whisk in the chicken broth gradually to avoid lumps, then stir in the half-and-half, Worcestershire sauce, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Add the diced potatoes and return the browned sausage to the pot. Raise heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Serve the soup hot, enjoying the creamy, hearty flavors.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Use low sodium chicken broth to better control the salt content.
- This soup can be made ahead and stored refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot during simmering.
- To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
