Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup

Name: Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: European, Italian, Mediterranean
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 (or oregano); 1/2 cup parmigiano reggiano (parmesan), grated; 4 ounces cream cheese (warmed); 1/2 cup heavy cream (whipping cream); salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)