This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with tender pasta, savory Italian sausage, and a rich, creamy broth infused with Parmesan cheese, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for chilly days. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this soup is destined to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavor-Packed: Italian sausage and Parmesan cheese bring a savory richness to every spoonful.
- Hearty and Comforting: Filled with pasta and creamy goodness for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasoning
Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, about 8–10 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until fully combined and the cheese has melted.
Step 6: Add the Sausage
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for 2–3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Cooking Notes
- Sausage Options: For a leaner option, use turkey or chicken sausage.
- Broth Substitution: Vegetable broth can be used for a lighter flavor.
- Cream Alternatives: Half-and-half or whole milk can replace heavy cream, but the soup will be slightly less rich.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for more veggies.
Low-Carb Version: Replace ditalini pasta with cauliflower rice or omit it entirely.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the pasta separate to prevent it from absorbing too much broth. Add it when reheating the soup.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup?
Cream-based soups can separate when frozen. If you plan to freeze it, omit the cream and Parmesan, and add them when reheating.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. With its rich, creamy broth and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup is both delicious and filling. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep option to enjoy throughout the week. Give this recipe a try, and let the warm, comforting flavors make your day a little brighter!
