There are those days when you walk into the kitchen, and the familiar rhythmic dance of cooking feels like coming home. This Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup is more than just a dish; it’s wrapped in warmth and comfort, a hug in a bowl for those chilly evenings. Rich, creamy, and with a slight kick from the Italian sausage, it’s a recipe to lean on when you’re craving something heartwarming yet simple—a true go-to for weeknight dinners or cozy family gatherings.
Reasons to try it
What makes this soup a staple worthy of your recipe box? Let’s start with the comforting creaminess that fills you up without weighing you down. It’s a fantastic meld of flavors: the spicy sausage, mellow cream cheese, and bright tomatoes create a symphony that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s utterly straightforward. In about half an hour, you’ll have a phenomenal meal that seems to have taken much longer.
Imagine curling up with a bowl of this soup as the rain taps gently against the window, or serving it to friends gathered around your table, laughing and sharing stories. It checks all the boxes for a family-friendly dish: hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites and subtle enough to please picky eaters. Truly, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting dish on weekends when time allows for a bit of culinary joy.
"This soup is my family’s favorite! Quick to make and packed with flavor—what’s not to love?" – A happy home cook.
How this recipe comes together
Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s the beauty of it: this Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup comes together in a matter of steps. You’ll start by sautéing some spices and sausage goodness, then mix in the tomatoes for that delightful base, followed by the luxurious cream cheese that gives it that creamy consistency we all crave. Lastly, a sprinkle of cheese on top and some fresh parsley elevates the presentation and adds a gorgeous pop of color. Trust me, your kitchen will smell irresistible throughout.
What you’ll need
To whip up this scrumptious soup, gather these ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb uncooked Italian sausage
- 1 small white onion (thinly sliced)
- 2–3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato puree
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1–3 cups chicken broth (adjust to desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 cup cream cheese (chopped and softened)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese (grated)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for serving)
Feel free to substitute the sausage for turkey or plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version, respectively.
Directions to follow
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes.
- Crumble the uncooked Italian sausage into the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spatula until there’s no pink left.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute—that heavenly aroma is coming!
- Pour in the tomato puree and crushed tomatoes, followed by the chicken broth and dried basil. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil, then lower to a simmer and let it bubble for about 10–15 minutes.
- Add the softened cream cheese and half of the grated parmesan. Stir gently until the cream cheese has melted, giving you that sublime, velvety texture. Adjust the consistency with more chicken broth if desired.
- Season with Kosher salt and fresh black pepper to your taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, finishing with the remaining parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that bright, fresh note.
Best ways to enjoy it
How do you serve this bowl of joy? There are no hard rules here—let your creativity shine! Pair it with crusty bread for dipping or perhaps a simple side salad for crunch and freshness. Feel free to elevate it even further with a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you’re craving a bit of heat.
Storage and reheating tips
Have leftovers? Lucky you! This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash more chicken broth if it thickens too much.
If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just portion it out into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top since it will expand when frozen. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
Here’s a little nugget of wisdom from my kitchen to yours: to really enhance the flavors, let your soup simmer just a tad longer if time allows. It deepens the savory notes beautifully. Also, don’t skimp on seasoning! Taste as you go, adjusting the salt and pepper until it’s just right for your palate.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? You could add spinach in the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of greens, or even toss in some chopped bell peppers with the onions for added sweetness. If you like an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning or a touch of smoked paprika.
Your questions answered
How long does this soup take to make?
In total, about 30-40 minutes, depending on how quickly you chop and prep.
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Just be sure to season it well since turkey is milder in flavor.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just be sure the chicken broth and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and mild flavors make it perfect for kids. Just adjust any spice levels according to their tastes.
I hope this Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup becomes a beloved part of your kitchen repertoire, warming hearts and bellies for many cozy nights to come.
