Name: Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup: 6 Reasons to Love It
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 8 ounces short pasta (penne or rotini); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; to taste Salt and pepper; for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

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Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup is the ultimate comfort food, especially on chilly evenings. This rich and flavorful soup combines Italian sausage, tender pasta, and creamy goodness, making it a dish that warms your heart and soul. With the addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, you’ll find yourself coming back for more. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into the delicious world of this creamy soup!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup is a delight for various reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying, offering a rich flavor profile that comforts the senses. Second, the use of Italian sausage adds a wonderful depth, making it a hearty meal. Third, it’s a cheesy pasta soup recipe that combines creamy pasta with delicious veggies, making it a healthy option. Fourth, it’s quick to prepare, taking only about 30 minutes! Fifth, it’s versatile; you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Lastly, this soup is a one-pot dish, meaning less cleanup for you!

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

Gather these items:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
8 ounces short pasta (penne or rotini)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
to taste Salt and pepper
for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Step 3: Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Step 4: In the same pot, sauté the diced onion until translucent.
Step 5: Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Stir in chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes (with liquid), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
Step 7: Once boiling, return cooked sausage and add the pasta. Reduce heat and let it simmer until pasta is al dente, about 10 minutes.
Step 8: Gently stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until cheese is melted and the soup is creamy.
Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use spicy or sweet Italian sausage based on your preference.
Fresh garlic yields the best flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended for a healthier option.
Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level.
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the pasta.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

Enjoy this creamy soup with Parmesan and pasta with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread for a comforting side. You can even top it with additional grated Parmesan or fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

To store, simply let the soup cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. This soup is perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup?

The secret lies in using fresh ingredients, especially the garlic and Parmesan cheese. This enhances the flavors significantly and ensures that your soup is both creamy and satisfying. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go!

Can I make Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. Be mindful that the pasta may absorb some broth, so add a bit of water or broth when reheating.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente when added to the soup. Additionally, stir in the cream and cheese at the end to keep the soup creamy and prevent curdling.

Variations of Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup! For a homemade creamy Parmesan soup twist, add in vegetables like spinach or kale. You can also substitute the Italian sausage for chicken or a vegetarian option, making it a creamy pasta soup with vegetables. For a unique flavor profile, try adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or Creamy Potato Soup. You can also explore Last Recipes for more inspiration.