Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Ingredients :

1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed

1 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, chopped

1/2 teaspoon ground fennel (optional)

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

4 cups chicken broth

1 (14.5 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes

8 ounces pasta such as ditalini (gluten-free for gluten-free)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated

4 ounces cream cheese (warmed)

1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream

salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions: