This luxuriously creamy soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and rich Parmesan in a velvety broth that’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for cold evenings or when you’re craving something deeply satisfying.

Essential Ingredients

Base Components:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 6 cups chicken stock
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Creamy Roux:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup white wine (optional)

Seasoning Blend:

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme leaves
• Fresh basil for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Building Flavors

1. Brown sausage in Dutch oven, breaking into pieces
2. Remove sausage, leaving fat in pot
3. Add onions, carrots, celery
4. Cook until vegetables soften
5. Add garlic, mushrooms
6. Deglaze with wine if using

Step 2: Creating the Base

1. Return sausage to pot
2. Add stock and seasonings
3. Simmer 15-20 minutes
4. Meanwhile, prepare roux in separate pan:

• Melt butter
• Add flour
• Cook 2-3 minutes
• Set aside

Step 3: Finishing the Soup

1. Whisk roux into simmering soup
2. Add heavy cream
3. Stir in Parmesan
4. Add spinach last
5. Season to taste

Pro Tips

1. For Best Texture:

• Don’t boil after adding cream
• Grate Parmesan fresh
• Add spinach just before serving
• Adjust thickness with stock

1. Make-Ahead Options:

• Prep vegetables day before
• Make base without cream
• Add dairy when reheating

Storage Guidelines

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Freeze dairy-free base only
• Reheat gently on stovetop
• Add fresh herbs when serving

Serving Suggestions

Perfect with:

• Crusty bread
• Garlic bread
• Fresh green salad
• Extra Parmesan for topping

This rich, hearty soup is a complete meal in itself. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Enjoy!

Remember:

• Don’t rush the vegetable softening
• Keep heat low after adding cream
• Taste and adjust seasonings at end
• Garnish with fresh herbs