The Ultimate Comfort Soup for Any Season

Imagine a bowl of rich, creamy soup that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, hearty potatoes, and aromatic seasonings. Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is not just a meal—it’s an experience of warmth and satisfaction. Whether you’re curled up on a chilly evening or looking for a crowd-pleasing dish to share with loved ones, this soup has you covered. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make over and over again.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create this unforgettable soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of half-and-half and buttery roux creates a luxurious texture.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with Italian sausage, potatoes, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level to make it your own.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup is always a hit.

Ingredients for Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Italian sausage (ground)	16 ounces
Butter	1/4 cup (1/2 stick)
Onion (chopped small)	1/2 medium
Celery (chopped small)	2 sticks
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Flour	6 tablespoons
Low sodium chicken broth	4 cups
Half-and-half	2 cups
Worcestershire sauce	1 teaspoon
Crushed red pepper flakes	1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Russet potatoes (diced small)	1 pound
Salt and pepper	To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

• Add the sausage meat to a soup pot. Cook over medium-high heat until browned (about 10 minutes), breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks.
• Transfer the cooked sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about one tablespoon of fat in the pot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

• Add butter to the pot and melt it over medium heat.
• Stir in the chopped onion and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

3. Create the Roux

• Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
• Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

4. Build the Base

• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to dissolve the flour and create a smooth base.
• Stir in the half-and-half, Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes (if using), and diced potatoes.

5. Simmer the Soup

• Return the cooked sausage to the pot and increase the heat to high. Bring the soup to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, and simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Check and Season

• Once the potatoes are tender and the soup has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Success

Use Quality Sausage

Opt for fresh Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can use spicy or mild depending on your preference.

Dice Potatoes Evenly

Cut the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Customize the Heat

If you like a spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage.

Don’t Skip the Roux

Cooking the flour ensures the soup has a creamy texture without a raw flour taste.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	16g
Fat	25g
Carbohydrates	20g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	720mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?

Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage for a lighter or plant-based option.

2. Can I Freeze This Soup?

Yes, but the texture may change slightly due to the dairy content. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.

3. What Other Vegetables Can I Add?

Feel free to add carrots, spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

4. Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?

Absolutely! Replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

5. How Can I Make It Lighter?

Use milk or a non-dairy alternative instead of half-and-half, and opt for lean sausage.

6. What Can I Serve with This Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even garlic breadsticks for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dish	Why It Works
Crusty bread	Perfect for dipping
Caesar salad	Adds freshness
Garlic breadsticks	Enhances the flavors

Bring Comfort to Your Kitchen

Now that you know how to make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a way to create memories and share warmth with the people you love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup is guaranteed to impress.

Ready to add some comfort to your table? Grab your pot and get started today!

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