Hello, soup enthusiasts! When the weather calls for comfort and warmth, there’s nothing better than a hearty bowl of homemade soup. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is loaded with bold flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients. It’s a perfect dish to warm your soul, whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests. Let’s get cooking and savor every spoonful of this delightful meal!
Introduction
Few dishes capture the comfort of home cooking like a bowl of hearty soup. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy Parmesan, and tender ditalini pasta into one irresistible dish. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a dish to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, the combination of protein, vegetables, and pasta makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
This soup is inspired by classic Italian flavors, elevated with the addition of cream and cheese for a luxurious finish. The balance of savory sausage, aromatic garlic, and tangy tomatoes is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
To make this comforting Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a soup that’s as flavorful as it is comforting.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s fully browned. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. - Combine Ingredients
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of spice). Mix well and bring the pot to a gentle simmer. - Cook the Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to the package directions, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. - Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a creamy consistency. - Return the Sausage
Add the cooked sausage back to the pot, stirring to combine it with the creamy soup base. Let it heat through for a few minutes. - Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top, if desired.
This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors deepen even further if left overnight in the refrigerator.
Helpful Tips
- Pasta Cooking Tip: To avoid mushy pasta, cook the ditalini separately and add it to individual bowls before serving. This helps maintain the perfect texture.
- Cheese Substitution: If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese makes a great substitute for a similar sharp and nutty flavor.
- Spice Level: Customize the spice level by adding more red pepper flakes or omitting them altogether for a milder version.
Cooking Tips
- Use a large pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and space for all the ingredients.
- For an extra burst of flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of white wine after browning the sausage.
- To lighten the dish, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping. Serve it with a side salad, such as Caesar salad or mixed greens, to create a balanced meal. For a special touch, garnish the soup with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content of this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup:
- Calories: 430
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Potassium: 750mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 12%
- Vitamin C: 10%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 12%
This soup is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for a filling lunch or dinner.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any small pasta like macaroni, orzo, or even shells can work in place of ditalini.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! The flavors develop beautifully when the soup is made a day in advance. Just wait to cook the pasta until right before serving.
Related Recipes
Here are some delicious recipes you might also enjoy:
- Crispy Bang Bang Salmon Bites Recipe
- Iowa Party Bites Recipe
- Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs Recipe
- Honey Glazed Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The creamy broth, tender pasta, and savory sausage make it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s for a cozy dinner or a family gathering, this soup is guaranteed to please. Try it today and experience the magic of homemade comfort food!