Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and soul, you’ve come to the right place! This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Every spoonful brings comfort, making it an instant favorite around my table.

What I love most about this soup is how easy it comes together. You can have it simmering on the stove while you enjoy some quality time with your loved ones. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making every batch uniquely yours!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just 40 minutes, you can serve a delicious homemade soup.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the creamy texture and savory flavors.
• Perfect for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have available.
• Comfort in a bowl: The combination of ditalini pasta, sausage, and Parmesan creates a truly comforting dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to create this delightful soup. Each one adds its own special touch, contributing to the rich flavor profile 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 Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is quite flexible! You can easily tailor it to suit your tastes or make use of what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.
• Change the pasta type: Substitute ditalini with any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or shells.

How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. This step is crucial because browning enhances the flavor through caramelization. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot but leave those flavorful drippings behind!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant—this usually takes about 3–4 minutes. Cooking these aromatics first builds a tasty base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Stock

Now it’s time to stir in those drained tomatoes along with two quarts of chicken stock, basil, and oregano. Return that cooked sausage back into the pot as well. Bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Add your ditalini pasta next! Let it cook until al dente—usually around 8–10 minutes—keeping an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft. The pasta should still have a bit of bite when it’s done; this adds texture to your soup.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Lower the heat and gently stir in heavy cream along with the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This step transforms your soup into a creamy delight. Stir until everything is melted together beautifully; this is where your soup becomes luxurious!

Step 6: Season & Serve

Finally, season your soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your taste preferences. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot—you deserve every bit of that warmth! Enjoy this scrumptious Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup with bread or just by itself; either way, it’s bound to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Making this soup is a breeze with these helpful tips to ensure the best flavors and textures in your bowl.

• Use quality sausage: Opt for fresh Italian sausage from your local butcher or grocery store. The flavor of the sausage significantly enhances the overall taste of the soup.

• Don’t skip on sautéing: Sautéing the onions and garlic until soft releases their natural sweetness, providing a solid flavor base for your soup.

• Add cheese gradually: Stir in the Parmesan cheese slowly to allow it to melt evenly, which helps create that rich, creamy texture you crave.

• Cook pasta separately if desired: If you prefer your pasta less soft, consider cooking it separately and adding it to each bowl just before serving. This keeps the pasta al dente and prevents it from absorbing too much broth.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your soup before serving. Depending on the sausage and stock used, you may want to adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to perfect the flavor.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving this comforting soup can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully and enhance the dining experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Extra Parmesan: Offer extra grated Parmesan on the side for guests who love that cheesy goodness. It’s an inviting touch!
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only adds flavor but also gives a lovely visual contrast against the creamy soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. Its buttery, garlicky flavor complements every spoonful.
• Caesar salad: A light Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and tangy dressing balances out the richness of the soup while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and earthiness that pair wonderfully with your savory soup.
• Cheesy quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas provide a satisfying cheesy bite that kids and adults alike will enjoy alongside their warm bowls of soup.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup will become a cherished meal in your home. Enjoy every warm, comforting bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for meal prep! It keeps well in the fridge, making it a great option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate the soup for up to 3–4 days.
• If you have leftover pasta, consider storing it separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, warm the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Be sure to check seasoning after reheating and adjust if necessary!

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’ve come to the right place!

Can I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version. The flavors will still be delicious!

How long does Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup last in the fridge?

This flavorful soup can last in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I use another type of pasta instead of ditalini?

Absolutely! Any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni or shells would be a great alternative if you can’t find ditalini.

What can I serve with Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warmth and joy during mealtime. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, this dish is sure to bring smiles all around. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!