Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a soul-warming dish that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, look no further! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a family favorite in my home. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a gathering with friends, this soup makes everyone feel cozy and satisfied. Plus, it’s an absolute delight to watch your loved ones enjoy each spoonful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes.
• Family-friendly: The rich flavors of the sausage and creamy broth will please even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.
• Make-ahead friendly: This soup holds well in the fridge, so feel free to make it ahead of time for those hectic days.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• Rich flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and Parmesan creates an unforgettable taste experience!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this soup. You’ll find everything you need right here!

• 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

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

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta shape: If you don’t have ditalini, any small pasta shape like couscous or mini shells works well too!
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous.

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 sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks until browned. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor that makes this soup truly delicious. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot but leave those tasty drippings behind.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they are soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. This brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Stock

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

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook until al dente, which takes about 8–10 minutes. Be sure not to overcook it; you want that perfect bite!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat slightly before stirring in heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted together into a creamy delight. This is where your soup transforms into something truly special!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Each bowl will warm your heart and fill your belly—perfect for sharing with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but a few pro tips can enhance the experience and flavor!

• Choose your sausage wisely: Opt for sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your taste preference. This choice will significantly influence the overall flavor profile of the soup.
• Don’t rush the sauté: Taking the time to properly sauté the onion and garlic allows their natural sweetness to develop, enhancing the soup’s depth of flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: Keep an eye on your ditalini pasta while it cooks. You want it to be tender but still have a bit of bite; this helps prevent it from becoming mushy once added to the soup.
• Adjust the creaminess: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese according to how rich you like your soups. Adding more creates a velvety texture that’s hard to resist!
• Save some cheese for topping: Sprinkle additional freshly grated Parmesan on top just before serving for an extra cheesy finish that adds flavor and a lovely presentation.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving this creamy, hearty soup is as enjoyable as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can create a delightful dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley not only adds a vibrant color contrast but also brings a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread on top or alongside for dipping. It soaks up all that delicious broth and makes each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing is perfect for mopping up every drop of soup. The buttery, garlicky flavors complement the richness beautifully.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the creamy soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition, making them an excellent side that enhances your meal’s overall appeal.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft, cheesy breadsticks are always a hit! Their gooey texture pairs perfectly with the soup’s creaminess.

Enjoy your warm bowl of comfort with these presentation ideas!

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 store it for later, ensuring you always have a comforting bowl of soup ready whenever you need it.

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.
• Label and date the container so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Add a splash of cream or broth if needed to restore creaminess.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary based on what you choose.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, simply omit the sausage and replace it with your favorite plant-based protein, such as lentils or chickpeas. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

Can I use different pasta instead of ditalini?

Yes! While ditalini pasta is traditionally used, feel free to swap it out with small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pasta types may require adjustments.

What can I serve alongside this soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Consider serving it with garlic breadsticks or a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this cozy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup as much as I do! It’s special not just because it’s packed with flavors but also because it brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!