Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the soul, you’ve found it! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a favorite in my home, especially on chilly evenings when we crave something hearty and comforting. The combination of creamy broth, tender pasta, and flavorful sausage creates a delightful bowl of goodness that my family can’t get enough of. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or even as a centerpiece at family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become a staple in your kitchen too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this delicious soup even on your busiest days.
• Kid-friendly appeal: The creamy broth and pasta make it a hit with kids—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a big batch for leftovers.
• Rich flavors: The combination of Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese infuses each spoonful with robust flavor that feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be happy to know that the ingredients for this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup are simple and wholesome. They come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that you’ll love.

Ingredients:
– 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra dose of nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your soup.
• Go vegetarian: Replace the sausage with mushrooms for a meaty texture without the meat.

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, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving those tasty drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. This not only enhances the flavor base but also fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

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 simmering allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Now it’s time to add ditalini pasta! Cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8–10 minutes. Be sure not to overcook since you’ll want that perfect bite in every spoonful.

Step 5: Create Creamy Goodness

Reduce the heat and stir in heavy cream along with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until everything is melted and combined into a creamy delight. This step is crucial because it transforms your soup into an irresistible comfort food experience.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot. Each bowl should look vibrant and inviting—ready to warm hearts at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making this comforting soup is a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Choose Quality Sausage: Using high-quality Italian sausage will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Look for fresh or artisan varieties that are free from artificial additives.

• Sauté the Aromatics Well: Taking the time to properly sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant builds a rich base for your soup. This step infuses the broth with deep, savory flavors.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta just until al dente ensures it retains a slight bite, adding texture to your soup. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its charm.

• Adjust Creaminess to Taste: Feel free to modify the amount of heavy cream based on your preference for creaminess. You can reduce it for a lighter version or increase it for an ultra-rich soup.

• Experiment with Fresh Herbs: While parsley is a lovely garnish, consider adding fresh basil or thyme as well. Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch that complements the hearty flavors.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving this delicious soup is as enjoyable as making it! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A few fresh basil leaves can add a pop of color and aromatic flavor.
• Crusty Bread Crumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs sprinkled on top provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a pinch of chili flakes adds both flavor and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic pairing provides a crispy complement to your creamy soup. The buttery, garlicky flavor makes every bite delightful.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and a light dressing adds freshness and balances out the richness of the soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots offer vibrant colors and textures to round out your meal perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with this comforting bowl of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup! Enjoy every delicious spoonful.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty, comforting bowl of goodness throughout the week. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it stores beautifully!

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.
• When ready to eat, check for freshness and give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

• Cool the soup entirely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating

• For stovetop: Pour the desired amount into a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• For microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
• You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful soup.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of ditalini?

Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, feel free to substitute with small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or shells. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How can I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a fully vegetarian option!

Can I prepare Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup as much as I do! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that’s perfect any day of the week. Enjoy every creamy spoonful, share with loved ones, and savor those cozy moments. Happy cooking!

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