Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a heartwarming bowl that feels like a cozy hug, then this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a creamy Parmesan-infused broth that comes together in pure harmony. Every spoonful bursts with the comforting flavors of fragrant herbs and rich cheese, making it a perfect meal for any day you want something both satisfying and soul-soothing. This recipe is a personal favorite that’s simple to make but feels like a special treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this soup is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the flavor base, adding texture, or giving the dish its characteristic creamy finish. Having the right essentials ensures your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup hits all the right notes.

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy): Brings a savory and slightly spicy foundation that defines the soup’s hearty character.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to brown the sausage and soften the veggies, adding a subtle richness.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth that Italian cooking is known for.
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained: Provides a hint of acidity and brightens the broth.
• 2 quarts chicken stock: The heart of the soup, offering a flavorful, savory base to everything.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1 cup ditalini pasta: Tiny tube-shaped pasta that adds a fun bite without overpowering the soup.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in to bring that signature nutty, salty essence.
• 1/2 tsp dried basil: Adds an herby, slightly sweet aroma that ties the flavors together.
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Offers an earthy, slightly peppery note classic to Italian dishes.
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A splash of fresh green that brightens each bowl both visually and flavor-wise.

How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks to ensure even browning. Cooking the sausage thoroughly and allowing it to crisp a little develops a rich, meaty flavor, which becomes the star of this soup. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot but don’t discard the drippings—they hold tons of flavor!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In the same pot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them slowly until the onion becomes translucent and soft, and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. This step layers your soup with sweetness and aromatic complexity that will marry perfectly with the sausage’s savoriness.

Step 3: Combine Tomatoes and Broth

Next, add the drained diced tomatoes to the pot along with the chicken stock, dried basil, and oregano. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and gently bring everything to a simmer. Letting it simmer for about 10 minutes helps the flavors mingle beautifully while the herbs infuse the broth with their distinct Italian character.

Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta

Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook until it’s al dente, typically around 8 to 10 minutes. The pasta becomes delightfully tender but still holds its shape, offering the perfect chewy contrast in each spoonful of soup. Keep an eye on it so the pasta doesn’t overcook and turn mushy.

Step 5: Add Cream and Parmesan

Lower the heat, then stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup, creating that irresistibly creamy texture. This is what transforms the soup from good to absolutely comforting and indulgent.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Finally, season the soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to suit your taste. The seasoning enhances all the flavors and brings everything into balance. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic finish, but you can also sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top just before serving for a cheesy flourish. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes makes an exciting addition. These simple touches elevate the soup’s appearance and taste instantly.

Side Dishes

Serve this hearty soup alongside crusty Italian bread or garlic knots to soak up every last drop of that creamy broth. A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, cutting through the richness of the soup for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls, turning each serving into a delightful edible experience. Another idea is to layer the soup over sautéed greens in a shallow bowl and top with toasted breadcrumbs for added crunch. Simple presentation changes make your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup feel extra special when entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep beautifully for up to 3 days without losing its flavor or creamy consistency.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the pasta may soften slightly upon thawing, so you might want to undercook it slightly if you plan to freeze large batches.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent scorching. Stir frequently until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup thickens too much. Avoid microwaving at high heat otherwise the cream could separate.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage can be a leaner alternative. Just choose a flavorful variety to maintain the rich taste of the soup.

Is there a vegetarian version of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

You can omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it satisfying.

What’s the best pasta substitute if I can’t find ditalini?

Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo work well as substitutes, offering similar texture to ditalini.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream for canned coconut milk or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for that cheesy depth.

How spicy is this soup if I use sweet Italian sausage?

Using sweet Italian sausage makes the soup mild and more subtle in spice. For a kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or opt for spicy Italian sausage instead.

Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup truly feels like a warm embrace on chilly days or whenever you crave something that’s both comforting and flavorful. Its blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements makes it a standout favorite to keep in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try and see why it’s become such a cherished dish in my kitchen!

Print