This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is hearty, comforting, and bursting with Italian flavors. With tender ditalini pasta, juicy sausage, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, and you’ve got a bowl of pure comfort!
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The Parmesan and heavy cream make the broth indulgent and flavorful.
- Easy to Make: Comes together in under 40 minutes with simple steps.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with pasta, sausage, and greens for a filling meal.
- Customizable: Swap kale for spinach or adjust the spice level with mild or spicy sausage.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and uncooked ditalini pasta. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Add Cream and Parmesan
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and the cooked sausage.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the broth.
5. Add the Greens
- Stir in the fresh spinach (or kale) and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or red pepper flakes for a little heat. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh Caesar or mixed green salad.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Add a little extra indulgence to your meal.
Tips for the Best Ditalini Soup
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: The pasta will continue to soften in the soup, so cook it until just al dente.
- Freshly Grated Parmesan: Use high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor and creamy texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: Use mild, sweet, or spicy sausage based on your preference.
- Thicker Soup: Add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan or let the soup simmer longer to thicken.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 2 months. Add freshly cooked pasta after reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is comfort food at its finest, combining creamy, savory, and hearty flavors into one delicious bowl. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, it’s a dish that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Let me know how yours turns out—and don’t forget to share your favorite toppings or twists! 🍲🧀✨