Name: Cozy Up with Hearty Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Or substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.); 1 pound Italian Sausage (Try spicy sausage for extra heat or ground turkey for a lighter option.); 1 large White Onion (Yellow onion can be used if needed.); 3 cloves Garlic (Mince finely to release all those delightful oils.); 1 cup Tomato Puree (Opt for low-sodium varieties for a healthier choice.); 1 can Crushed Tomatoes (Consider fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky finish.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Swap for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Fresh basil can brighten things up even more.); to taste Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste for your ideal flavor.); to taste Black Pepper (Adjust to taste for your ideal flavor.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Room temperature for easy blending.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grate fresh for the best results.); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Feel free to substitute with chives or basil.)

As I stirred the pot, the kitchen was enveloped by the warm, inviting aroma of Italian comfort food. This Creamy Sausage & Tomato Soup with Cream Cheese has quickly become a go-to in my recipe collection, a true celebration of flavor that comes together in a mere 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish combines savory Italian sausage and luscious cream cheese for an extraordinary twist on traditional tomato soup. Not only does it fill you up, but it’s also a lifesaver when you need to impress guests—or simply want a satisfying bowl to cozy up with on a chilly evening. Plus, with endless variations like swapping for ground turkey or tossing in roasted red peppers, you can customize it to your heart’s content. What’s your favorite ingredient to add for a personal touch?

9aee45e2 5287 4a85 86a1 d9b2043fe089tr frvtnr

Why is this soup a must-try?

Hearty, Comforting Bowl: This Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup is the perfect antidote to chilly nights, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.

Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delightful meal, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Creamy Indulgence: The silky cream cheese creates a luscious texture that elevates classic flavors, reminiscent of your favorite Italian dishes.

Versatile Adaptations: Feel free to swap ingredients! Ground turkey or roasted red peppers can easily be added to make it your own.

Impressive Flavor: With robust Italian sausage and vibrant tomatoes, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a favorite at family gatherings.

If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, don’t miss out on the delicious Sausage Stuffed Jalapenos or the creamy Street Corn Soup as perfect pairings!

Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables; substitute with vegetable oil if preferred.
• Italian Sausage – Provides a savory, meaty base; try spicy sausage for extra heat or ground turkey for a lighter option.
• White Onion – Offers sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed; yellow onion can be used if needed.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor with a fragrant aroma; mince finely to release all those delightful oils.
• Tomato Puree – Contributes a thick, rich tomato base; opt for low-sodium varieties for a healthier choice.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Adds texture and sweetness; consider fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky finish.
• Chicken Broth – Provides liquid and flavor; swap for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.

For Flavor
• Dried Basil – Adds herbal flavor; fresh basil can brighten things up even more.
• Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings; adjust to taste for your ideal flavor.

For Creaminess
• Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy texture and thickens the soup; mascarpone can be a more decadent substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese – Enhances flavor and adds umami; remember to grate fresh for the best results.

For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Adds brightness and a touch of freshness; feel free to substitute with chives or basil.

Each of these ingredients contributes to the delightful Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup experience, making it rich, hearty, and comforting!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced white onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. This aromatic base is essential for your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup, creating a deliciously rich flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. The sausage should have a savory aroma, combining beautifully with the sautéed onions, which enhances the flavor of the soup.

Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and continue cooking for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should become aromatic and slightly golden. This step elevates your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup, adding depth and richness to the flavor profile.

Step 4: Mix Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in 1 cup of tomato puree and 1 can of crushed tomatoes along with 4 cups of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot, allowing the soup to thicken for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Cheese
After simmering, remove the pot from heat and stir in 8 ounces of room temperature cream cheese until fully melted and creamy. If the soup seems too thick, feel free to add more chicken broth until desired consistency is reached. This step transforms the soup into a velvety bowl of comfort, highlighting the Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup’s delightful creaminess.

Step 6: Taste and Season
Season your soup with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, stirring well to combine all the flavors. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving to meld the tastes together. This is your final chance to adjust seasoning for the perfect balance in your hearty Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup!

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast on the side. Your homemade Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup is ready to be enjoyed, offering a comforting and satisfying experience for every spoonful.

9aee45e2 5287 4a85 86a1

What to Serve with Creamy Sausage & Tomato Soup

A warm bowl of rich and creamy soup can inspire the perfect ensemble for a cozy dinner with loved ones.

Crusty Garlic Bread: The crusty, buttery texture and garlic flavor perfectly complement the creamy soup, making every spoonful even more satisfying.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing out the richness of the soup beautifully.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft, cheesy bites bring fun and flavor to the table, inviting everyone to enjoy a delightful dunk into the soup.
Parmesan Risotto: The creamy consistency of risotto mirrors the soup while the parmesan adds a lovely umami note, creating a luxurious dining experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a delicious, caramelized sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti, matches the savory notes of the soup while elevating the dining experience, perfect for a cozy evening in.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm chocolate lava cake. Its gooey center creates a lovely end to a hearty meal, enticing everyone to linger a little longer at the table.

Expert Tips for Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup

Properly Heat Oil: Begin with medium-high heat! If the oil isn’t hot enough, your onions won’t sauté properly, affecting the soup’s flavor.
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Always use room temperature cream cheese to ensure it blends smoothly into the soup, avoiding any pesky clumps.
Adjust Consistency Thoughtfully: If the soup is too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency—this allows for the perfect creamy texture in your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup.
Taste as You Go: Always taste your soup before serving! Adjust seasonings to suit your preferences, especially the salt and pepper, for that perfect flavor balance.
Add Veggies: For added nutrition, consider incorporating fresh spinach or kale when simmering—it’s a subtle way to introduce extra greens into the dish.
Simmering Magic: Allow the soup to simmer adequately to deepen the flavors; this is where the magic happens, bringing out the best in each ingredient!

Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Variations

Feel free to put your spin on this delicious soup—there are so many ways to make it truly your own!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cream cheese with coconut cream for a rich texture without dairy. It adds a touch of exotic sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tomatoes.
Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage instead of mild for a kick of heat. You could even add some red pepper flakes to ramp up the spice level!
Vegetarian Delight: Swap sausage for lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option. This change not only boosts protein but also keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate roasted red peppers for a smoky flavor addition. They add a beautiful layer of sweetness that complements the tomatoes wonderfully.
Greek-Inspired: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. This keeps the creaminess while lightening up the dish—a perfect option for a refreshing change.
Herbaceous Freshness: Use fresh basil instead of dried for a burst of vibrant flavor. Toss in some chopped parsley or oregano to enhance the Italian flair!
Texture Variation: Add diced potatoes to the soup for additional heartiness. They will cook down and thicken your soup while providing a comforting texture.
Smoky Flavor: Enhance the soup with a splash of smoked paprika. It adds a depth of flavor and rounds out the tomato base beautifully.

If you’re interested in more delectable ideas, don’t forget to explore our creamy Decadent Carrot Frosting or our indulgent Brownie Ice Cream Cake for an exciting finish to your meal!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup

Fridge: Store your soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before refrigerating to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Separate into single servings for easy reheating later on.

Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth if the soup has thickened upon thawing.

Texture Note: Be aware that freezing may slightly alter the texture of cream cheese in the soup, but the flavor will remain delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the onions and garlic, and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can combine the tomato puree, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth ahead of time. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, heat everything in a pot, stir in the cream cheese until creamy, and season to taste. This method ensures your soup will be just as delicious and satisfying, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!

9aee45e2 5287 4a85 86a1 d9b2043fe089br ayehdy

Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right Italian sausage?
Absolutely! When selecting Italian sausage for your soup, look for a brand that uses high-quality meat and doesn’t contain excessive fillers. You can opt for sweet or spicy based on your preference. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using turkey sausage, which offers a leaner alternative while still packing a ton of flavors.

What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Very good question! Store your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup in an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing it up to maintain its rich flavors. If you’re planning to enjoy it later, you can also freeze it!

Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely and then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes. You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to restore its creaminess!

Why is my cream cheese clumping in the soup?
Ah, that can be quite common! Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the soup. If it’s too cold, it may clump instead of blending smoothly. Another tip is to stir it in gradually and use a whisk to help break up any stubborn clumps, allowing it to melt evenly into the soup.

Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Of course! This soup is very versatile. For a vegetarian version, simply swap the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you’re keeping an eye on calories, you can substitute the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, yet still creamy texture.

Is this soup safe for pets?
It’s best to keep this soup away from your furry friends. Ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful to pets, so it’s wise to stick to pet-friendly foods if you want to share a bit of your delicious meal with them!