Description
Creamy Sausage and Pasta Soup
Ingredients:
1 lb ground sausage
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup small pasta (such as shell or elbow)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook until tender. Lower the heat, stir in heavy cream, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect soup every time. First, gather all ingredients. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles. Once fully cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until fragrant and translucent. Next, pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat to bring it to a rolling boil. Add the dry pasta and cook according to the package’s “al dente” time, usually 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Once the pasta is tender, reduce the heat to low. This is crucial to prevent the cream from curdling. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, then add the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Allow the soup to simmer gently for 5 minutes—do not boil. Finally, turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Let the soup stand for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette. For a perfect crunch, serve it with warm, crusty garlic bread or breadsticks for dipping. To elevate the presentation, garnish each bowl with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy more heat.
How-to Summary
Brown sausage with onion and garlic. Add broth, bring to a boil, and cook pasta. Reduce heat, stir in cream and seasonings, and simmer. Finish by stirring in Parmesan off the heat. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but milk may make the soup too thin and can separate. Full-fat evaporated milk is a better substitute.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? You can brown the sausage and prepare the base, but add the pasta and cream only when ready to serve to prevent the pasta from becoming mushy and the cream from breaking.
What other pasta shapes work well? Small, sturdy shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small fusilli hold up best. Avoid long, thin pasta like spaghetti.
Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely. Italian sausage (mild or hot) adds great flavor. For a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling after adding cream: This causes the cream to curdle. Always simmer gently on low heat.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cook pasta just to al dente in the broth, as it will continue to soften in the hot soup.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan: These contain anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy. Freshly grate your cheese for a smooth melt.
- Not tasting before serving: Seasoning levels in broth and sausage vary. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage and Pasta Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors in a simple one-pot meal. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Its versatility and satisfying nature make it perfect for any weeknight or cozy weekend dinner.