Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings the family together, you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly day. The rich flavors of Italian sausage and creamy Parmesan broth will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas as it simmers. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with loved ones, this soup is sure to be a hit!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and heartiness. You can whip it up in about 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for any occasion. Plus, it’s jam-packed with flavor and nutrients, so everyone will leave the table satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 40 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve!
• Family-friendly: With its creamy texture and savory taste, even picky eaters will love this dish.
• Make-ahead friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
• Comfort in a bowl: Every spoonful is like a warm hug that brings comfort and joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! For this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 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 soup is its flexibility! You can customize it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Change the pasta: If ditalini isn’t available, try using small shells or elbow macaroni instead.
• Kick up the heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice in your soup.

How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor to your soup. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside while leaving those flavorful drippings behind.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This step not only builds the base for your soup but also enhances its flavor profile beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next, stir in those drained tomatoes along with chicken stock, basil, and oregano. Return the browned sausage back into the pot too! Bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together perfectly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add in your ditalini pasta! Cook it according to package instructions until al dente—about 8–10 minutes should do the trick. Cooking it just right ensures that every bite is pleasantly chewy without being mushy.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once your pasta is perfectly cooked, reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted together into a creamy dream of deliciousness! This is where your soup transforms into something truly indulgent.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley before serving hot. Watching everyone enjoy their steaming bowls of soup will warm your heart!

Now that you have this delightful recipe tucked away, I hope you enjoy making this comforting dish for yourself and loved ones! Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making a delicious soup is all about the little details, and I’ve got some tips to ensure your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect every time!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil and oregano can amplify the flavor of your soup significantly. If you can, opt for fresh over dried to make your dish pop with aromatic goodness.
• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the sausage adds depth and richness to the broth. This step enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup by developing those beautiful caramelized notes.
• Adjust creaminess to taste: If you prefer a lighter soup, feel free to reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or plant-based cream alternatives. It allows you to customize the richness based on your preference.
• Cook pasta separately if storing leftovers: If you plan on enjoying the soup over several days, consider cooking the ditalini pasta separately and adding it only when serving. This helps prevent it from becoming mushy as it absorbs broth over time.
• Experiment with spice levels: If you like a kick in your soup, add red pepper flakes while sautéing or toss in some sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat. Adjusting spice levels makes this recipe adaptable to your taste buds!

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving your soup can be just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Extra Parmesan cheese: A light grating of additional Parmesan on top just before serving enhances that cheesy flavor and gives a lovely texture.
• Cracked black pepper: A few twists of freshly cracked black pepper not only looks elegant but also adds a slight kick that complements the creamy broth.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the hearty broth, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Caesar salad: A refreshing Caesar salad balances out the richness of the soup with its crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious side that pairs wonderfully with the warm flavors of your soup.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette brings a nutty flavor to your meal and is a fantastic way to incorporate whole grains into your dinner.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this heartwarming Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create a meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for meal prep. You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy delicious, comforting meals throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, consider freezing as outlined below.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• 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 you might have about this recipe.

Can I use different pasta instead of ditalini in Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or even gluten-free options like quinoa pasta.

How do I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup healthier?

To lighten up this soup, consider using lean turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage and replace heavy cream with a plant-based cream alternative or additional chicken stock.

Can I freeze Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Yes! This soup freezes well. Just ensure it’s cooled and stored in airtight containers. Follow reheating instructions for best results.

What can I serve with Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this warm and hearty Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl that brings family together. Enjoy every spoonful, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or ask any questions along the way. Happy cooking!