Written by Clara Rose
why make this recipe
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish. It combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and tender pasta, making it perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s easy to make and can feed a crowd, making it great for family gatherings or a quiet night at home.
Table of Contents
how to make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 ½ cups ditalini pasta (uncooked)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Italian Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables in the remaining sausage drippings for about 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Once simmering, add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked ditalini pasta to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly in the broth. Reduce heat to medium and continue to simmer for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add the Cream and Parmesan: Once the pasta is cooked, reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream until the soup is creamy. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted and incorporated.
Finish and Serve: Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pot and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a green salad.
how to serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Serve this soup hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a lightly dressed salad for a complete meal.
how to store Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Let the soup cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
tips to make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- For a thicker soup, add a little more Parmesan cheese.
- If you want more veggies, add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasonings at the end to suit your preference.
variation
You can make this soup lighter by using ground turkey instead of Italian sausage. For a vegetarian option, skip the sausage and use vegetable broth along with more veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can substitute ditalini pasta with any small pasta shape like elbows or shells.
Q: Is this soup spicy?
A: The soup’s spice level depends on whether you choose mild or spicy Italian sausage. You can also adjust the spices to your liking.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is great for meal prep. Just store it in the fridge or freezer, and it will still taste delicious when you reheat it.
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