Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe delightful aroma of simmering garlic and savory herbs transports me to an Italian kitchen, filled with warmth and togetherness. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a true comfort food classic that embodies everything cozy about fall and winter dining. This hearty soup not only serves as the perfect antidote to chilly evenings but also shines with its adaptability—making it easy to cater to lighter dietary preferences without sacrificing that rich flavor we all crave. Imagine a bowl brimming with crumbled Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a luscious Parmesan-infused broth, each spoonful inviting you to linger a little longer at the table. So, what will you pair it with: warm crusty bread or a fresh side salad? Let’s dive in! Why is this soup a must-try? Comforting warmth: This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for chilly nights. Flavor-packed broth: The savory richness of sausage and earthy herbs create a taste that sings of Italy. Easy to customize: It’s a breeze to adapt for lighter diets—swap in turkey sausage or reduce cream! Hearty texture: Ditalini pasta adds a satisfying bite, ensuring every bowl is fulfilling. Crowd-pleaser: Serve it to family or friends, and watch them gather around the table, savoring each spoonful. This recipe pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread or a fresh side salad, making it a complete meal! Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Ingredients • All the essentials for a cozy meal. For the Soup Base Italian Sausage – Fresh sausage delivers rich flavor; consider turkey sausage for a leaner option. Chicken Stock – A flavorful base; homemade stock enhances richness, but low-sodium varieties are also great. Diced Tomatoes – Provides acidity and sweetness; drain the liquid beforehand to prevent a watery soup. For the Pasta and Creaminess Ditalini Pasta – The perfect small pasta for this soup; substitutes like elbow macaroni work well if needed. Heavy Cream – For a luscious texture; swap with half-and-half for a lighter touch. Fresh Parmesan Cheese – Adds creaminess and a nutty flavor; freshly grated is always best for melting. For the Aromatics and Seasoning Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; use minced garlic for a robust taste. Onion – Sweetens and builds flavor when sautéed; diced onion is the ideal choice. Dried Basil and Oregano – Key herbs that impart Italian flavor; fresh herbs can elevate the dish, especially in summer. Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish as a garnish; adds a lovely pop of color. Enjoy making this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, and let its heartiness and warmth bring joy to your dining table! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Step 1: Brown the Sausage In a large soup pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. The sausage should be crispy and golden, releasing savory aromas. Once done, remove it from the pot and set aside, making sure to keep the flavorful drippings in the pot. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics Using the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning. This step sets the rich foundation for your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, creating a mouthwatering aroma in your kitchen. Step 3: Create the Broth Next, stir in the drained diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and the dried basil and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the browned sausage back into the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes on medium-low heat, letting all the flavors meld together beautifully while the aromatic herbs infuse the soup. Step 4: Add the Pasta After simmering, stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s tender but still has a slight bite, adding that perfect texture to your hearty Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. Step 5: Finish with Cream Lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to mix until everything is well combined and the cheese melts smoothly into the soup. This creates a rich and creamy broth that envelops the pasta and sausage, making each bowl an indulgent delight. Step 6: Season and Serve Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this crowd-pleasing dish on a cozy night! Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine and adapt this comforting dish to your family’s preferences! Turkey Sausage: Swap traditional Italian sausage for lean turkey sausage to lighten the dish while still keeping that savory flavor. Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free ditalini or your favorite small pasta for a tasty version that meets dietary needs. It’s just as hearty! Extra Veggies: Add fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed boost. This way, you’ll enjoy extra color and health benefits with every bowl. Creamy Alternatives: If you prefer a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a different but equally creamy texture. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pot while sautéing the aromatics. The warmth beautifully enhances the overall flavor, making each spoonful exciting. Cheesy Twist: Try mixing in different cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a unique cheesy experience. They melt beautifully and add a delightful richness to the soup. Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. These herbs complement the Italian flavors beautifully and bring a fresh touch to the comforting broth. Beans Added: Stir in canned white beans or chickpeas for added protein and texture. This not only enriches the soup but also makes it heartier and satisfying. Excited to customize your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup? These options let you tailor it to your taste, whether you’re craving something lighter or with an extra burst of flavor! If you’re looking for something light and refreshing to accompany your soup, why not try a zesty Italian Cream Soda? Or pair it with a side of hearty Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi for a complete Italian feast! Helpful Tricks for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Fresh Herbs Only: Use fresh herbs when possible for a more vibrant flavor in your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup; dried herbs can lack depth. Avoid Watery Soup: Drain diced tomatoes before adding them to avoid excessive liquid; this keeps your soup at the perfect consistency. Cook Pasta Right: Add ditalini directly to the soup; cooking it separately may cause it to become mushy if reheated. Savory Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor profile; lower-fat versions can be used, but select ones with robust seasoning. Taste and Adjust: Always taste your soup before serving; adjusting salt and pepper can enhance the final flavor beautifully. What to Serve with Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Warm, hearty dishes bring families together, and this comforting soup deserves delicious companions. Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy broth, a slice of fresh baguette complements every spoonful beautifully. Light Side Salad: A mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup and adds a vibrant pop of color. Garlic Breadsticks: Crunchy on the outside and soft within, these breadsticks enhance the meal with delicious garlic flavors, ideal for dipping! Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and caramelized veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts not only add nutrients but also a delightful earthy sweetness that pairs well with the savory soup. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Flaky and buttery, these biscuits bring a comforting softness perfect for mopping up the creamy soup. Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the richness of the dish, balancing the flavors with its crisp acidity and fruity notes. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note. Warm cookies offer a delightful treat that echoes the comfort of home. Make Ahead Options This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the soup base—browning the sausage, sautéing the onion and garlic, and simmering the broth—up to 24 hours ahead. Simply refrigerate it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the broth on the stove and stir in the freshly cooked ditalini pasta and cream right before serving to retain that creamy, luscious texture. For those who want to enjoy it later, this soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days with excellent flavor, ensuring that it’s just as delicious the next day! How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Fridge: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This helps prevent mushy pasta when reheated. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the thawed soup on the stove over low heat, adding freshly cooked pasta for the best texture just before serving. Serving Tips: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the soup hot, paired with warm crusty bread for a delightful meal. Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe FAQs What type of Italian sausage should I use? Absolutely, fresh Italian sausage is preferred for its rich flavor. If you’re looking to lighten things up, turkey sausage makes a fantastic substitute without sacrificing taste. Look for sausages with herbs and spices to enhance the overall flavor profile of your soup. How long can I store leftovers of this soup? Leftovers of your delicious Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it up, which will help lock in the flavors and maintain its freshness. Can I freeze Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup? Definitely! For longer storage, freeze the soup without the pasta in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. This method prevents the pasta from getting mushy during reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked pasta right before serving for that perfect texture. What should I do if my soup is too watery? If your soup turns out too watery, it’s likely due to excess liquid from the diced tomatoes. To fix this, you can let the soup simmer uncovered for a few minutes; this will help reduce the liquid. You could also create a slurry using cornstarch and water, then stir it into the soup until it thickens to your liking. It’s all about adjusting to achieve that creamy consistency! Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried for this recipe? Very! Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup wonderfully. I recommend using about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried; for instance, use about 1 tablespoon of fresh basil or oregano instead of 1 teaspoon of dried. Just remember to add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavors. Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets? Absolutely! To make this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup gluten-free, simply replace the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta option. There are many great varieties available that mimic the texture and taste of traditional pasta, so you’ll still enjoy all the comforting flavors without the gluten! Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup for Cozy Nights This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting dish for chilly nights, celebrating rich flavors and hearty textures. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 35 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 6 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 lb Italian Sausage Fresh sausage delivers rich flavor; consider turkey sausage for a leaner option.4 cups Chicken Stock A flavorful base; homemade stock enhances richness, but low-sodium varieties are also great.15 oz Diced Tomatoes Provides acidity and sweetness; drain the liquid beforehand to prevent a watery soup.For the Pasta and Creaminess1 cup Ditalini Pasta The perfect small pasta for this soup; substitutes like elbow macaroni work well if needed.1 cup Heavy Cream For a luscious texture; swap with half-and-half for a lighter touch.1 cup Fresh Parmesan Cheese Adds creaminess and a nutty flavor; freshly grated is always best for melting.For the Aromatics and Seasoning3 cloves Garlic Essential for depth of flavor; use minced garlic for a robust taste.1 medium Onion Sweetens and builds flavor when sautéed; diced onion is the ideal choice.1 tbsp Dried Basil Key herbs that impart Italian flavor.1 tbsp Dried Oregano Key herbs that impart Italian flavor.¼ cup Fresh Parsley Brightens the dish as a garnish; adds a lovely pop of color. Equipment large soup pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large soup pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the crumbled Italian sausage, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally. Once done, remove it from the pot and set aside, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pot.Using the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, chicken stock, and the dried basil and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the browned sausage back into the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes.After simmering, stir in the ditalini pasta. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.Lower the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to mix until everything is well combined.Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesChoose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor profile. Use fresh herbs when possible for a more vibrant flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
