A heartwarming bowl of Tuscan Parmesan Cream Soup, perfect for cozy evenings or entertaining guests with its rich and creamy texture and delightful flavors.
4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for vegetarian option
1 cup Whole Milk Contributes creaminess
1 cup Heavy Cream Provides rich flavor
1 cup Grated Aged Parmesan Cheese Freshly grated melts best
1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Enhances herbiness
1 teaspoon Dried Basil Enhances herbiness
1 pinch Red Pepper Flakes Optional for a kick
1 pinch Nutmeg Optional enhancer
2 cups Baby Spinach or Tuscan Kale Add nutrients and color
2 cups Diced Cooked Chicken or Italian Sausage For added heartiness
1 medium Potato Diced
1/4 cup Fresh Basil or Parsley Elevates presentation and flavor
optional Croutons or Truffle Oil Optional for texture
Instructions
Melt butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion carrots and celery; sauté for 6-8 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Sprinkle flour over sautéed vegetables and stir to coat; cook for 2-3 minutes until light golden.
Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking. Bring to a simmer for 10-12 minutes stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to low; mix in milk and cream. Gradually add Parmesan stirring until melted and smooth.
Stir in thyme basil red pepper flakes and nutmeg. Optionally add chicken or sausage and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Use an immersion blender for a smoother texture or leave as is for a chunkier soup.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Thin with more broth or cream if too thick.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor
avoid boiling the soup after adding cream to prevent curdling