Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms both the heart and the soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is one of my all-time favorites. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings. There’s something magical about the combination of tender pasta, rich sausage, and silky Parmesan broth that brings everyone together around the table.

This soup not only satisfies those comfort food cravings but also fills the kitchen with an inviting aroma that will have your loved ones eagerly awaiting dinner. Trust me; once you try this recipe, it will become a cherished staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for those hectic days when you need a delicious meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this creamy sausage soup—it’s a hit for everyone!
• Make-Ahead Delight: This soup keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, so feel free to whip up a big batch!
• Flavorful Comfort: Each spoonful is packed with rich flavors that make every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this delightful soup. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

For the Soup Base

• 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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage alternative if you want a lighter version.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Change up the pasta: If ditalini isn’t available, any small pasta shape works wonderfully here.
• Spice it up: For those who enjoy heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes during cooking to give it an extra kick!

How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. You’ll want it browned nicely; this adds depth to your soup’s flavor. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot but leave those flavorful drippings behind!

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds a solid flavor base for your soup.

Step 3: Build Your Soup Base

Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, and oregano. Return your cooked 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: Add Pasta

Once your soup has simmered nicely, it’s time to add ditalini pasta! Cook until al dente—around 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft; we want that perfect bite!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat and gently stir in heavy cream along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts completely into your soup creating that luxurious creamy texture we adore.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Now grab a bowl (or two) because this hearty soup is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, especially with these handy tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh Italian sausage from your local butcher or grocery store. This enhances the flavor of the soup tremendously, making it rich and hearty.

• Don’t Skip the Cream: The heavy cream adds a luxurious texture that balances the acidity from the tomatoes. It turns your broth into a velvety delight that everyone will love.

• Cook Pasta Separately (Optional): If you prefer your pasta less soft, consider cooking the ditalini pasta separately and adding it to each bowl before serving. This keeps the pasta perfectly al dente and prevents it from absorbing too much broth.

• Adjust Seasoning as Needed: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as necessary. Everyone’s palate is different, so adding more salt or pepper can really personalize the flavor.

• Let It Sit: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld all flavors together beautifully. You’ll be amazed at how much better it tastes after just a short rest!

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Presenting this delicious soup can make mealtime even more inviting. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds color and freshness, brightening up the dish visually and flavor-wise.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Offer additional grated Parmesan on the side so everyone can add their preferred amount for that extra cheesy goodness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with this soup, perfect for dipping into that creamy broth.
• Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad provides a nice contrast to the hearty soup. The crunchiness of romaine along with creamy dressing complements every spoonful.
• Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted seasonal vegetables add a delightful sweetness and earthiness that balances out the richness of the soup.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft and cheesy breadsticks are always a hit! They’re great for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everyone at your table asking for seconds! Enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup has thickened during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use different pasta instead of ditalini?

Absolutely! While ditalini is perfect for this soup, other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells will work just as well.

How can I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup stores well in the fridge and can be frozen for later. Just follow the storage tips above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that warms both body and soul, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a cozy night in. Don’t hesitate to try it out; I’m sure you’ll love every creamy, savory spoonful. Happy cooking!

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