Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends. With tender pasta, rich Italian sausage, and a silky Parmesan broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress at a dinner party, this soup has you covered. Its standout qualities include ease of preparation and a flavor profile that will satisfy any palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Hearty and Comforting: Packed with Italian sausage and creamy broth, it warms you up from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up sausage evenly.

Ingredients

Creamy, hearty, and full of flavor, this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup combines tender pasta, rich Italian sausage, and a silky Parmesan broth for the ultimate comfort food experience.

For the Soup Base

• 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

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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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, breaking it up with a spoon.
* Cook until browned.
* Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add diced onion and garlic to the pot.
* Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, and oregano.
* Return sausage to the pot.
* Bring to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add Pasta

Add ditalini pasta to the pot.
* Cook until al dente, approximately 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Reduce heat.
* Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
* Continue stirring until cheese is melted and soup becomes creamy.

Step 6: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste.
* Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a delightful experience for both the eyes and taste buds. This hearty soup pairs well with various sides and garnishes that enhance its creamy richness.

With Crusty Bread

• Baguette: Slice and toast a fresh baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Spread garlic butter on slices and bake until golden.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft and fluffy rolls are perfect for soaking up the broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil: Add fresh basil leaves to elevate the Italian flavors.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons make a refreshing side.
• Caprese Salad: Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light contrast.

How to Perfect Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

To achieve the best version of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is both flavorful and satisfying.

• Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for richer flavor.
• Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream.
• Customize Seasonings: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your taste.
• Simmer Longer: Let the soup simmer longer for deeper flavor development.
• Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooking, try cooking ditalini pasta separately and adding it just before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing sides with your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Doughy sticks brushed with garlic butter and topped with Parmesan make an irresistible addition.
2. House Salad: A mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables complements the flavors nicely.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil add a healthy crunch.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushroom caps filled with cheese and herbs offer a delightful bite-sized treat.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Using low-quality sausage: The flavor of the soup relies heavily on the sausage. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best taste.
• Not sautéing vegetables long enough: Sautéing the onion and garlic properly enhances their flavors. Make sure they are soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the simmering step: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld the flavors together. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer for at least 10 minutes.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta should be cooked al dente for the best texture. Keep an eye on it, as it can become mushy if overcooked.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient has its own flavor profile. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup so comforting?

The creamy texture combined with rich flavors from the sausage and Parmesan cheese makes this soup incredibly comforting, perfect for chilly days.

Can I customize this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrients or substitute different pasta shapes based on your preference.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version while keeping the flavor profile intact.

How can I enhance the flavor of my soup?

Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during cooking. A splash of lemon juice just before serving can also brighten up the flavors nicely.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not just hearty but also versatile, allowing numerous customization options to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for comfort food on a cold day or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers on all fronts. We encourage you to give it a try and explore different variations!

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Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a cozy, creamy delight perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings. Bursting with rich flavors from Italian sausage and a silky Parmesan broth, this hearty soup features tender ditalini pasta that makes it a filling choice for any meal. Quick to prepare in just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. With its comforting qualities and customizable ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• Seasonings: dried basil, dried oregano, salt, pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, oregano, and return the sausage to the pot. Simmer gently for about 10 minutes.
4. Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–10 minutes).
5. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste; garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 355
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating spinach or kale into the mix. If you're looking for a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half.