When it comes to cozy, satisfying meals that are perfect for any time of year, WW Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is the ultimate comfort food. This creamy, flavorful soup is packed with savory Italian sausage, rich Parmesan, and a medley of vegetables—all simmered to perfection. Ideal for anyone following the Weight Watchers (WW) program or a low-carb lifestyle, this soup delivers both flavor and nutrition without derailing your health goals. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a hearty dinner, or a meal-prep option, this soup is perfect for satisfying cravings while staying on track.

This WW Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, with simple ingredients that come together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. The hearty sausage and creamy Parmesan broth provide a satisfying base, while the addition of spinach and cauliflower adds a nutritious boost, making this soup an excellent source of fiber, protein, and vitamins. You’ll feel full and content, all while keeping your meal light and balanced.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, including measurements, ingredients, instructions, and everything you need to know to create this flavorful soup, along with its nutritional breakdown and Weight Watchers SmartPoints.

Ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 lb (16 oz) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference; use lean or turkey sausage for a lower-fat option)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and sliced
  • 2 medium celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 small head cauliflower (about 2 cups, cut into florets)
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or kale for a more hearty option)
  • ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

For Garnish (Optional):

  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, or thyme) for garnish

Equipment Needed:

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Stirring spoon or spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Ladle
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Grater (if using fresh Parmesan)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

  • Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cut the cauliflower into small florets. Grate the Parmesan cheese, if using a block, and set aside.
  • Wash and chop the spinach (or kale) into smaller pieces. Having everything prepped ensures the cooking process goes smoothly without unnecessary delays.

2. Cook the Sausage:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a spatula or spoon as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
  • Once cooked, remove any excess fat from the sausage by draining it, if necessary. Leave the sausage in the pot for the next step.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

  • To the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Stir frequently, allowing the vegetables to soften for about 4-5 minutes.
  • Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt, pepper, and the dried oregano, basil, and onion powder. These herbs add a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the sausage and broth.

4. Add the Cauliflower and Broth:

  • Once the vegetables have softened, add the cauliflower florets to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the cauliflower to mix with the other ingredients.
  • Pour in the 6 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  • Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally, ensuring that the cauliflower doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

5. Add the Cream and Parmesan:

  • After the cauliflower has cooked through, reduce the heat to low and add the ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the cream to fully incorporate into the broth for a creamy texture.
  • Add the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts into the soup, further enriching the flavor and creating a velvety smooth texture.
  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. For extra creaminess, you can add an additional splash of cream.

6. Add the Greens:

  • Stir in the chopped spinach (or kale) and allow it to wilt in the hot broth for 2-3 minutes. The greens will add a vibrant color and extra nutrients to the soup, enhancing both the texture and nutritional profile.

7. Simmer and Serve:

  • Once everything is combined, allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to ensure that all the flavors are well-integrated.
  • Ladle the soup into bowls, topping with a little more freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
  • Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, or thyme, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this hearty, creamy, and comforting soup.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving – based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 290
  • Fat: 20g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Total Carbs: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 6g
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 750mg

Weight Watchers (WW) SmartPoints:

  • Freestyle Points: 5 points per serving
  • Blue Plan: 4 points per serving
  • Green Plan: 4 points per serving
  • Purple Plan: 5 points per serving

This creamy soup offers a great balance of fat, protein, and low carbs, making it a smart choice for those following WW and looking to indulge in a savory, comforting meal without overloading on SmartPoints.

Useful Information and Tips:

  1. Make it Low-Carb: This soup is naturally low-carb due to the use of cauliflower as a substitute for potatoes or other starchy vegetables. The cauliflower adds texture while keeping the soup light and keto-friendly.
  2. Swap the Sausage: For a leaner option, try using turkey or chicken sausage instead of traditional pork sausage. These variations will lower the fat content without compromising flavor. Make sure to use a sausage that is not too lean, as fat plays an important role in the richness of the soup.
  3. Add More Veggies: This recipe is highly adaptable, and you can add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so the veggies are tender but not overcooked.
  4. Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level based on your preference. Spicy sausage can also be used in place of regular sausage for a more flavorful kick.
  5. Prepare Ahead of Time: This soup is a great option for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and the flavors continue to develop as it sits. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months—just leave out the cream until reheating.
  6. Substitute Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, simply omit the cream and Parmesan cheese. You can substitute coconut milk for the cream to keep the soup rich and creamy without the dairy.

Why This Recipe Works for Weight Watchers and Low-Carb Diets:

This WW Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup works wonderfully for those following the Weight Watchers (WW) program, especially with its low SmartPoints. The Italian sausage provides a rich flavor while the cauliflower keeps the soup low-carb and filling without the extra calories. By using low-sodium chicken broth and limiting the use of cream, this recipe is not only lighter but also full of savory goodness.

With only 6 net carbs per serving, this recipe is perfect for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet. It’s rich in healthy fats and proteins, helping to keep you full for longer periods. Additionally, the combination of hearty vegetables and creamy broth ensures that you won’t miss traditional starchy soups.

The soup is easy to prepare and makes a great weeknight dinner or meal-prep option. Plus, the versatility of the recipe allows for customization based on dietary preferences and available ingredients, ensuring that everyone can enjoy it.

Conclusion:

The WW Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is a perfect blend of flavor, comfort, and nutritional balance. It’s creamy without being overly heavy, packed with protein, and low in carbs, making it ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a hearty meal. With simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and the ability to make it your own, this soup will quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re looking for a filling lunch, a satisfying dinner, or an easy meal-prep option, this soup is sure to please both your taste buds and your health goals.

Enjoy this delicious, creamy, and comforting bowl of soup while keeping your diet on track with minimal SmartPoints—because healthy eating doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor!