Name: Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup: Comfort in Every Spoonful
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Feel free to use any mild oil as a substitute.); 1 pound Italian Sausage (Can be replaced with ground turkey sausage for a lighter option.); 1 medium White Onion (Yellow or red onion can be used.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh is preferred, but garlic powder works in a pinch.); 1 cup Tomato Puree (Canned crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute.); 1 can Crushed Tomatoes (Fresh tomatoes can also be used.); 4 cups Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth serves as a lighter alternative.); 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (Fresh basil can enhance flavor.); 8 ounces Cream Cheese (Mascarpone can be used for richer taste.); 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free alternative.); Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste.); Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.); Fresh Parsley (Can be substituted for basil or cilantro.)

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On a chilly evening when the wind howls outside, there’s nothing more inviting than the aroma of a bubbling pot of soup. That’s how my Hearty Creamy Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup came to life. Packed with juicy Italian sausage, zesty tomatoes, and velvety cream cheese, this comforting recipe is the perfect warm hug after a long day. What I adore about it is how quick it comes together—ready in just 30 minutes—as well as its hearty nature that makes it a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or gathering loved ones around the table, this soup is versatile enough to allow for fun variations, like using ground turkey sausage or tossing in roasted red peppers for an extra flavor kick. Curious to find out how to whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive in!

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Why Is This Soup So Irresistible?

Creamy Comfort: The rich cream cheese adds a silky texture that envelops you with warmth, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is your go-to for a fast home-cooked meal, perfect for busy evenings.

Versatile Variations: Elevate your soup by swapping in ground turkey sausage or adding roasted red peppers for a unique twist that keeps things exciting.

Hearty Ingredients: With juicy Italian sausage and zesty tomatoes, it combines flavors that resonate with your favorite comfort foods, making it a family favorite.

Perfect Pairings: Enjoy it with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal that satisfies every craving, just like my Chicken Gnocchi Soup does!

Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables; feel free to use any mild oil as a substitute.
• Italian Sausage – The main protein that gives depth and flavor; you can easily swap this for ground turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• White Onion – Builds the foundational flavor; try using yellow or red onion if desired.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic notes; should you be in a pinch, garlic powder works but fresh is always better for taste.

For the Tomato Mixture
• Tomato Puree – Amplifies the tomato flavor and ensures a smooth texture; canned crushed tomatoes can step in if needed.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Adds acidity and body to the soup; if fresh tomatoes are available, they work beautifully, too.
• Chicken Broth – Loosens the soup and adds flavor; vegetable broth serves as a lighter alternative. Adjust the amount for your preferred consistency.

For Seasoning and Creaminess
• Dried Basil – Infuses a lovely herbaceous note; fresh basil can take this up a notch for a vibrant flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Gives that creamy texture to the soup; mascarpone can also be used here for a richer option.
• Parmesan Cheese – Elevates flavor and richness; use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free alternative.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust these according to your taste.

For the Finishing Touch
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of freshness for garnishing; consider swapping for basil or cilantro if you prefer.

Dive into your kitchen and gather these ingredients, and soon, you’ll experience the delightful embrace of my Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup!

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

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add 1 finely chopped white onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion softens and begins to slightly caramelize, filling your kitchen with its savory aroma.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is no longer pink and has browned slightly. The color should shift to a lovely golden-brown, signaling it’s time for the next step.

Step 3: Infuse the Flavors
Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant. Next, pour in 1 cup of tomato puree and 1 can of crushed tomatoes, followed by 4 cups of chicken broth. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Creaminess
Once the soup has simmered, lower the heat and stir in 8 ounces of cream cheese and half of 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the cream cheese to melt completely, creating a luxurious, creamy texture that envelops the soup. If you prefer a thinner consistency, feel free to add more chicken broth at this point.

Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnishing with the remaining Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color. Your comforting soup is now ready to be enjoyed with crusty bread or a fresh side salad!

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Expert Tips for Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup

Soft Cream Cheese: Let cream cheese soften before adding; this prevents clumping and ensures a smooth blend with the soup.

Flavor Boost: Add a splash of red wine during simmering for a richer depth of flavor in your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup.

Greens Addition: Stir in fresh spinach or kale for extra nutrients; they cook quickly and create a vibrant twist in the dish.

Perfect Seasoning: Always taste your soup before serving; adjusting the salt and pepper enhances the overall flavor profile significantly.

Avoid Boiling: Once cream cheese is added, keep the soup on low heat and do not boil; this preserves that creamy texture we all love.

Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Variations

Feel free to personalize this comforting soup to suit your taste and dietary needs—it’s all about making it your own!

Turkey Sausage: Swap out Italian sausage for ground turkey for a leaner option, without sacrificing flavor or texture. This not only lightens the dish but also provides a delicious twist.
Roasted Red Peppers: Incorporate diced roasted red peppers for an added layer of smokiness that complements the tomatoes beautifully. You might find the depth of flavor is just what your soup needs!
Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil leaves instead of dried to elevate the dish with a vibrant flavor profile. Add it in at the end for a bright, herbaceous finish that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
White Beans: For extra protein and heartiness, stir in a can of rinsed and drained white beans. They not only boost nutritional value but also give a delightful texture that pairs well with the creaminess of the soup.
Spicy Kick: If you’re craving heat, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste. This will spice things up and awaken your taste buds in the most wonderful way.
Mascarpone: Replace cream cheese with mascarpone for an even richer, creamier taste. It’s an indulgent twist that takes your soup to a whole new level of decadence.
Vegetable Broth: To keep it vegetarian-friendly, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This simple swap doesn’t compromise the flavor and makes it suitable for your herbivorous friends.
Lemon Zest: Add a touch of lemon zest right before serving for a refreshing brightness. This unexpected twist will brighten the flavors and add an invigorating contrast to the creamy base.

Explore these variations to make each bowl of your Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup even more special, and for more delicious comfort food inspiration, check out my Biscoff Cheesecake Indulge and Peach Cream Cheese recipes!

Make Ahead Options

These Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup preparations are a fantastic time-saver for busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion and garlic) and brown the sausage up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. The tomato mixture can also be made ahead, so after stirring in the cream cheese, simply refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, reheat gently on the stove but avoid boiling. When you’re ready to serve, just give it a good stir, add any fresh herbs, and enjoy a comforting, homemade soup that tastes just as delicious as if you made it that day!

How to Store and Freeze Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup

Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion during freezing.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to avoid curdling the cream cheese.

Serving Tip: If the soup thickens after freezing, simply add a splash of broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

What to Serve with Hearty Creamy Sausage & Tomato Soup

Get ready to elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement this rich and comforting soup.

Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for sopping up every last drop of delicious soup, crusty bread adds a crunchy texture that balances the creaminess.
Garlic Toast: Crispy, buttery slices infused with garlic flavor enhance the meal, making each bite more indulgent and savory.
Fresh Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with arugula and vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the hearty soup, refreshing your palate with every forkful.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies add depth and color, providing a warm, earthy counterpoint to the rich flavors of the soup. The caramelization enhances their natural sweetness, creating a delightful harmony.
Cheesy Grilled Sandwiches: Grilled cheese sandwiches, gooey and warm, make a classic pairing with soup. The melty cheese and toasted bread create a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.
Wine Pairing: A glass of light, fruity red wine, like a Chianti, complements the savory aspects of the soup while adding a touch of sophistication to your meal.

Each of these accompaniments makes for a complete dining experience, transforming your Hearty Creamy Sausage & Tomato Soup into a full-fledged feast. Enjoy!

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Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup Recipe FAQs

What kind of sausage should I use for this soup?
Absolutely! Using Italian sausage gives the soup a robust flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey sausage works beautifully as a substitute while still providing a delicious taste.

How should I store leftover Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup?
For best results, store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.

Can I freeze Sausage & Tomato Cream Cheese Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stove over low heat.

What if the cream cheese clumps while cooking?
To avoid clumpy cream cheese, let it soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding it to the soup. Stir it in once the heat is low to help it blend smoothly. If you encounter clumps, whisk vigorously until everything is combined and creamy.

Are there any dietary considerations for this soup?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can make this soup gluten-free by using gluten-free sausage and broth. For a dairy-free option, substituting cream cheese with cashew cream or a dairy-free cheese alternative will still yield a creamy texture. Always check ingredient labels to accommodate allergies.

How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you find the soup is too thick for your liking, simply add more chicken broth or water while it simmers until you reach your desired consistency. Start with half a cup and adjust from there, stirring well for an even texture.