If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, flavor-packed bowl that feels like a warm hug, then this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend. It’s a hearty, soul-satisfying soup loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and creamy richness all mingled with bright tomato and fresh pesto notes that swirl together beautifully in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly night or you just want something comforting with a little Italian flair, this soup delivers on taste, texture, and aroma like a dream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe shines because it uses a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. Every element, from the spicy Italian sausage to the creamy parmesan, works perfectly together to create that comforting, rich broth you’ll crave.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): Choose a quality sausage for the best meaty, spicy flavor that forms the soup’s hearty base.
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste: This adds concentrated tomato depth and a lovely richness to the broth.
- ¼ cup pesto: Fresh basil and garlic pesto bring a bright herbal lift and complexity to the soup.
- ½ tsp onion powder: A subtle background flavor that enhances the overall savory profile.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Boosts garlic flavor alongside fresh minced garlic for a truly aromatic experience.
- 3 cloves minced garlic: Provides essential aromatic pungency and warmth.
- 8 oz ditalini pasta: Small tubular pasta that cooks perfectly and adds satisfying bite.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The soup’s flavorful liquid foundation, best if homemade or high quality.
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds body, freshness, and acidity to balance the creaminess.
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes: Just a touch of heat to brighten and enliven the soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The magic ingredient that brings luscious creaminess and smoothness.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts seamlessly into the soup.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté Garlic
Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned and fragrant, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily. Immediately add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté until you can smell that wonderful garlic aroma filling your kitchen—this infuses every bite with flavor.
Step 2: Add Tomato Paste, Pesto, and Spices
Next, stir in the tomato paste and pesto along with onion powder, garlic powder, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. These fresh and vibrant ingredients build the broth’s character, marrying the savory sausage with delightful herbal and tomato notes that set the stage for the soup’s creaminess.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta in the Broth
Bring the soup mixture to a rolling boil before adding the uncooked ditalini pasta. Reduce the heat to medium, allowing the pasta to cook gently in the savory broth until it is perfectly al dente, soaking up those delicious flavors. This step ensures your pasta is tender but still has a satisfying bite.
Step 4: Stir in Cream and Parmesan, Season to Perfection
Finally, pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, then let the soup cook for another 10 to 15 minutes until heated through and decadently creamy. This step transforms the broth into that luscious, velvety texture that makes this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are the perfect garnish for this soup, adding a pop of color and herbal brightness that complements the rich, creamy flavors. For an extra touch, a light sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also balances the richness of the soup, making your meal complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in small bread bowls that soak up the luscious broth — ideal for gatherings. You can also top it with crispy fried sage or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts to add surprising texture contrasts. Presentation with colorful bowls or rustic serving dishes makes it feel even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen after sitting, making your next bowl even better, though the pasta may absorb some broth if left too long.
Freezing
While you can freeze this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe, be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly—consider freezing the soup without the pasta and cooking fresh pasta when reheating. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it back to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and will still deliver good flavor. Just be sure to adjust seasoning if needed, as turkey sausage can be milder than traditional Italian sausage.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can swap the Italian sausage for hearty plant-based sausage or even sautéed mushrooms and add extra beans or vegetables for protein and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it fully vegetarian.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to substitute small shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or even small shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pastas cook at different rates.
How spicy is this soup?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick without overpowering the creaminess. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less depending on your spice preference.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use a dairy-free parmesan alternative. This will slightly change the flavor but still offer a lovely creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone craving a cozy, comforting meal that comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Its rich, creamy texture combined with savory sausage and fresh herbs creates a bowlful of joy that feels homemade and special in every sip. Trust me, once you’ve made this soup, it will quickly become a go-to recipe that warms your heart and your table alike. Give it a try and share the deliciousness with friends and family — you’ll be so glad you did!
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Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy Italian sausage soup is a hearty and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring savory Italian sausage, aromatic garlic, creamy parmesan, and rich pesto, all simmered with tender ditalini pasta in a flavorful tomato broth. Perfect for a family meal, this soup combines robust flavors and smooth textures, offering a delicious warming bowl ideal for any season.
Ingredients
Sausage and Base
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- ¼ cup pesto
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Soup and Pasta
- 8 oz ditalini pasta
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-oz) can diced tomatoes
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
Finishing Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large Dutch oven, heat over medium-high and cook the Italian sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess grease to keep the soup rich but not greasy. Then add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant, building the base flavor.
- Add Flavorings and Liquids: Stir in tomato paste, pesto, onion powder, garlic powder, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and red pepper flakes. These ingredients create the rich, layered broth of the soup.
- Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked ditalini pasta. Reduce heat to medium and allow the soup to simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- Finish the Soup: Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese to add a luscious creamy texture and cheesy depth. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue cooking over low heat for 10-15 minutes to blend all flavors and heat through thoroughly. Garnish with fresh basil if desired before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- If you prefer a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Fresh basil makes a perfect garnish but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Drain excess grease well from the sausage to avoid a greasy soup.
- Use high-quality Italian sausage for best flavor.
