If you are on the hunt for a comforting bowl that combines heartiness with creamy richness, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe. This soup wraps up succulent Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and fresh spinach in a luscious Parmesan-infused broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s a perfect one-pot wonder that manages to be both rustic and elegant, making it an instant favorite for cozy dinners or casual gatherings. Every spoonful delivers depth of flavor and satisfying texture, truly showcasing how simple ingredients can come together to create something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential for achieving the signature flavors and texture of our Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the savory sausage and fresh veggies to the creamy Parmesan finish that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Italian sausage: Using either traditional pork or turkey/chicken versions adds the perfect savory depth and a bit of spice.
- Olive oil: Just a splash for sautéing the sausage and veggies, bringing out rich, mellow undertones.
- Small onion, diced: Offers a sweet and aromatic base that gently softens and deepens flavor during cooking.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Adds that unmistakable punch of warmth and fragrance.
- Carrots, sliced: For a subtle natural sweetness and vibrant color throughout the soup.
- Celery stalks, chopped: Enhances the savory character and provides a lovely crunch.
- Chicken broth: The foundation of the soup’s flavor, bringing everything together with a savory, comforting liquid base.
- Ditalini pasta: Small, tubular pasta that soaks up the broth and creates a satisfying bite in every spoonful.
- Dried oregano: Brings a touch of earthy, Mediterranean warmth.
- Dried basil: Adds a sweet herbal note that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Heavy cream: Provides the silky, luscious texture that makes this soup creamy without overpowering the other flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses the soup with a sharp, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible.
- Fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a pop of green freshness and delicate texture to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing and rounding out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the final presentation with a fresh, herbal note.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Crumble in your Italian sausage and cook it until all those savory bits are gorgeously browned. This step is key because it develops a base flavor that sets the tone for the entire soup. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside – your pot is ready for the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, toss in diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Stir and sauté for about five minutes until the vegetables soften and release their aromas. This builds layers of flavor and adds texture that will elevate the soup.
Step 3: Add Broth and Herbs
Pour in four cups of chicken broth, then sprinkle in dried oregano and basil. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil. The herbs infuse the broth with warmth and earthiness, tying the sausage and veggies beautifully together.
Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta
Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Cook for about eight minutes, just until the pasta is al dente—tender but with a bite. This pasta is perfect because it holds onto the creamy broth without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Combine Sausage, Cream, and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer everything together for about five minutes, letting the soup thicken slightly and the flavors marry. This is where the magic happens — creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting.
Step 6: Add Spinach and Season
Lastly, stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the soup, adding a bright green pop and a tender, fresh bite. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to balance out all the flavors perfectly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to give it a lovely herbal finish. Now you have a warming, delicious bowl of the Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe ready to savor!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh parsley is a simple but delightful garnish, you can also try a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat, or even some extra grated Parmesan on top. These touches not only add visual appeal but also a flavor boost that can make each bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a fresh, crisp salad. The bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop, while a salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the creamy richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple cheese platter.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve individual portions in mini Dutch ovens or rustic bowls. You can also ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls for a cozy, edible container experience. Adding a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers on top makes it an elegant option for entertaining guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid, so the soup may thicken over time.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but it’s best to freeze it before adding the cream and Parmesan cheese to maintain the best texture. After thawing, simply reheat and stir in the cream and cheese just before serving for that fresh, creamy finish.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup in a saucepan over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent the cream from curdling and add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. Heating slowly preserves the soup’s creamy texture and ensures every ingredient shines once again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is ideal for soaking up the broth, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells will work nicely too. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
You can swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or use hearty mushrooms instead for a vegetarian version. Using vegetable broth in place of chicken broth keeps the flavors rich and satisfying.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How spicy is this soup?
The spice level depends on the sausage you choose. Mild Italian sausage keeps the heat gentle, but you can opt for spicy sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
What’s the best way to reheat without making the pasta mushy?
Reheat the soup gently and add a bit of liquid to loosen it up. If possible, cook the pasta separately and add it in after reheating to keep that perfect al dente texture.
Final Thoughts
If you want a soup that feels like a warm embrace but with a gourmet twist, you simply must try the Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that’s incredibly satisfying yet easy enough to whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you’ve had a bowl, it will quickly become a go-to comfort food that delights your whole family. So grab your pot, gather those ingredients, and dive into a hearty, creamy bowl of deliciousness!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a luscious blend of cream and Parmesan cheese, all simmered with fresh vegetables and spinach for a flavorful meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (turkey or chicken sausage as a pork alternative)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Ditalini pasta
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles, and cook until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the dried oregano and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the Ditalini pasta to the boiling broth. Cook for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm.
- Combine and Simmer: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
- Add Spinach and Season: Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy warm!
Notes
- For a leaner option, use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a firm texture in the soup.
- You can substitute fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- If the soup is too thick, add extra chicken broth or water to adjust consistency.
- Parmesan cheese adds saltiness; adjust additional salt accordingly.
