Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that brings the family together, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is my go-to comfort food, especially on chilly evenings. The combination of savory Italian sausage and creamy Parmesan broth makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, so it’s great for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

What I love most about this soup is how it effortlessly balances rich flavors with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or alongside some crusty bread, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: It stores well in the fridge, so you can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Comforting Flavors: The blend of Italian sausage and Parmesan creates a rich taste that warms your soul.
• Adaptable Recipe: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that the ingredients for this soup are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a dish full of flavor that everyone will love!

Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
– 2 quarts chicken stock
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.

How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the sausage adds depth of flavor that enhances the entire soup. Once it’s cooked through and nicely browned, remove it from the pot but leave those tasty drippings—trust me!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. This step is crucial because cooking these aromatics brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Build Your Broth

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, chicken stock, dried basil, and oregano. Return the browned sausage to the pot and bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add ditalini pasta to your simmering soup and cook until al dente, which should take about 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want that perfect bite! Cooking it directly in the broth means it absorbs all those delicious flavors.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Reduce heat slightly before stirring in heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is melted together into a creamy delight. This step transforms your hearty broth into an indulgent soup that feels like pure comfort in a bowl.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish each bowl with fresh parsley before serving hot. Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your delicious Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making this comforting soup is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate it even further!

• Choose the right sausage: Using either sweet or spicy Italian sausage will give your soup a unique flavor profile. Sweet sausage offers a milder taste, while spicy sausage adds a kick, so choose based on your personal preference.

• Sauté until fragrant: When cooking the onion and garlic, ensure they are sautéed until they are soft and aromatic. This step enhances the overall flavor of the soup and builds a beautiful foundation for the broth.

• Cook pasta separately (optional): If you prefer your ditalini pasta to maintain its texture, consider cooking it separately. This prevents overcooking in the soup and allows you to control the pasta’s doneness better.

• Adjust creaminess: Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream according to your taste. For a lighter version, reduce the cream or substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative that suits your diet.

• Fresh herbs make a difference: Adding fresh parsley as a garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds a fresh burst of flavor. You can also add basil or oregano for extra herbal notes.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving this delicious soup is all about presentation and complementary flavors that enhance your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of additional cheese on top brings richness and an appealing finish.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, adding these flakes can elevate the flavor while giving it a nice pop of color.
• Chopped green onions: These add a bit of crunch and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into this hearty soup. The crunchy exterior and soft interior complement the creamy broth wonderfully.
• Caesar salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, making it a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots introduce another layer of flavor while adding nutritional value.
• Caprese skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for delightful bites that pair excellently with soup.

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not just a dish; it’s an experience meant to be savored with loved ones. Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for meal prep! Making a big batch allows you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For best flavor, consider adding extra Parmesan just before serving.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down fully before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.

Can I use other types of sausage in Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version while still enjoying those robust flavors.

How long does Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this delicious soup will last for 3-4 days in your refrigerator. Just make sure to check for freshness before serving!

Can I make this soup without heavy cream?

Yes! You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option or need a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple salad, or even some garlic knots for dipping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to whip up this cozy bowl of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup! It’s not only comforting but also packed with flavor that warms the soul. Whether you’re feeding family or enjoying a quiet evening alone, this recipe promises satisfaction in every spoonful. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones!