Creamy Parmesan Sausage Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 2 medium carrots, sliced
06 - 2 celery stalks, chopped
07 - 4 cups chicken broth
08 - 1 cup ditalini pasta
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
11 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
12 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
14 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
02 - In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
03 - Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried oregano and basil. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
04 - Once the broth is boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions or until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
05 - Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, allowing them to melt into the broth for a creamy texture.
06 - Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
07 - Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - For best results, refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.
02 - Freeze the soup base without cream or Parmesan; add them after reheating for a smoother texture.
03 - Substitute spinach with kale or add red pepper flakes for extra spice.