Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

#### Instructions:

1. **Cook the Sausage**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of **olive oil** over medium heat. Add the **Italian sausage** (casings removed if using link sausage) and break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Brown the sausage for about 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In the same pot, add the diced **onion**, **carrot**, and **celery**. Sauté the vegetables in the rendered sausage fat for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften. Add the minced **garlic** and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. **Add the Broth and Potatoes**: Pour in the **chicken broth** and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the diced **potatoes** and let the soup simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

4. **Stir in the Cream and Spinach**: Once the potatoes are soft, reduce the heat and stir in the **heavy cream** and **milk** (if using). Add the **spinach** and let it wilt into the soup, cooking for another 3-5 minutes.

5. **Add the Sausage and Seasonings**: Return the cooked **sausage** to the pot. Stir in the **Parmesan cheese**, **oregano**, and **thyme**. Season the soup with **salt** and **pepper** to taste. Allow everything to simmer together for 5-7 more minutes so the flavors meld.

6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once the soup is hot and the flavors have combined, ladle it into bowls. For an extra touch, sprinkle with additional **Parmesan cheese** and a few **crushed red pepper flakes** for a little heat, if desired. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

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### Tips for the Perfect Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

– **Make it Spicy**: If you love a little heat, use **spicy Italian sausage** or add a pinch of **red pepper flakes** to the soup while it simmers.
– **Use Fresh Parmesan**: For the best flavor, opt for freshly grated **Parmesan cheese** instead of the pre-grated variety. It melts better and adds a richer taste.
– **Make It Lighter**: If you’re looking for a lighter version of this soup, you can replace the heavy cream with **half-and-half** or **milk**. The flavor will still be delicious but with a slightly lighter texture.
– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like **zucchini**, **mushrooms**, or **bell peppers** to make the soup even heartier.
– **Slow Cooker Version**: You can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage, then add all the ingredients (except the cream and spinach) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream and spinach just before serving.

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### Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

This **Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup** is not only perfect for cozy family dinners, but it also makes an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining guests. The creamy, savory flavors are sure to be a hit, and it’s a dish that’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings.

Whether you’re making it for a quiet evening at home or serving it to a crowd at a holiday gathering, this soup offers both flavor and comfort in one bowl. It’s a hearty dish that pairs well with a simple salad or a chunk of your favorite artisan bread.

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### Conclusion: A Bowl of Comfort and Flavor

When you’re in the mood for a delicious, comforting meal that’s both easy and satisfying, **Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup** is a perfect choice. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, this soup will warm you up from the inside out. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, leaving you with more time to enjoy the company of loved ones.

So, next time you’re craving something cozy and flavorful, skip the takeout and make this indulgent yet simple soup instead. You won’t regret it!