Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming bowl of Creamy Italian Sausage Soup on a chilly day. This soul-warming, savory one-pot wonder is loaded with hearty Italian sausage, velvety potatoes, and a luscious, pepper-kissed broth that simply begs for a hunk of crusty bread to soak up every last drop.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is how humble and accessible the ingredients are! Just a handful of everyday staples transform into something truly extraordinary, with each component playing a crucial role in making every bite rich, satisfying, and layered with flavor.

• Italian sausage (16 ounces): Choose your favorite—mild or hot for a kick. The sausage is the star, infusing the broth with savory depth and spice.
• Butter (1/4 cup): Adds luxurious texture and helps sauté the veggies until they’re tender and aromatic.
• Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Gives gentle sweetness and earthy base flavor. Dice small so it practically melts into the soup.
• Celery (2 sticks, chopped): Brightens things up with a fresh, slightly peppery crunch.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Aromatic, punchy, and totally essential—don’t be shy!
• Flour (6 tablespoons): Just enough to thicken the soup and give it that gorgeous, creamy body.
• Chicken broth (4 cups, low sodium): Lays the savory foundation without overpowering the other flavors.
• Half-and-half (2 cups): For unmatched creaminess without being overly rich—every spoonful is silky heaven.
• Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds umami and a subtle hint of tang that elevates the whole pot.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For just the right level of cozy, peppery heat (leave it out for a milder soup).
• Russet potatoes (1 pound, peeled & diced): These soak up the broth and become creamy and tender, making every bite hearty.
• Salt & pepper to taste: The finishing touch—taste before seasoning to get it just right.

Variations

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is delightfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to play around and make it your own! Whether you’re working around pantry ingredients, dietary needs, or just a craving for something different, here are a few easy ways to switch things up.

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter (but still flavorful!) twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute full-fat coconut milk for the half-and-half, and vegan butter for a completely dairy-free, creamy experience.
• Add Extra Veggies: Spinach, kale, carrots, or bell peppers make great toss-ins for a nutrient boost and added color.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a satisfying, keto-friendly alternative.

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by adding your Italian sausage to a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Break it up as it cooks—this part is where the magic begins! You want the sausage nicely browned, which usually takes about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving behind about a tablespoon of that flavorful fat for the next step.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Add the butter to your pot. When it’s fully melted and begins to smell buttery and nutty, stir in your chopped onion and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, scraping up all the brown sausage bits from the bottom. This is where the flavor deepens and the kitchen starts to smell incredible!

Step 3: Cook the Garlic and Flour

Add the minced garlic and give it a quick 30-second stir—just until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and keep stirring for about 2 minutes. This helps cook out the raw taste so your Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is silky and not floury.

Step 4: Make the Broth Base

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, making sure you do it slowly so the flour completely dissolves and you avoid lumps. Watch as the base thickens and smooths out—it’s seriously satisfying.

Step 5: Simmer and Finish

Stir in the half-and-half, Worcestershire sauce, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and diced potatoes. Slide the browned sausage back in. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower it and let the soup simmer—lid slightly open—until the potatoes are fork-tender and the broth is creamy, about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep things from sticking and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Garnishes

This soup loves a finishing flourish: a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, some extra crushed red pepper for heat, or even a handful of shaved parmesan for nutty richness. Toasted croutons or a drizzle of good olive oil are also fabulous for that little something extra!

Side Dishes

Think garlic bread, focaccia, or a warm baguette—anything you can use to soak up the creamy broth. For a lighter meal, pair Creamy Italian Sausage Soup with a crisp green salad or simply-steamed veggies to round out the menu.

Creative Ways to Present

Ladle into rustic soup bowls and top with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of parsley for a cozy, homestyle feel. You can even serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a playful, edible presentation—always a crowd favorite at potlucks or family gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Creamy Italian Sausage Soup cool fully, then transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. The flavors melt together even more as it sits, making leftovers even more irresistible!

Freezing

While the soup freezes well, the creaminess may separate slightly after thawing. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for expansion, and store for up to 2 months. Give it a good stir upon reheating to bring it back together.

Reheating

Gently rewarm leftovers on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If reheating from frozen, let the soup thaw in the fridge overnight for best texture, and add a splash of broth or cream if it’s too thick.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cozy, creamy, and bursting with flavor—Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that’s destined to become a regular in your meal rotation. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of sharing a steaming bowl with those you love most!

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