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. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or need a quick meal for your family, this soup is versatile enough to fit any occasion. With its irresistible flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Warmth: This soup offers a comforting embrace on chilly days, making it perfect for cold evenings or rainy afternoons.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy Parmesan creates a depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds.
- Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this hearty soup without spending all day in the kitchen.
- Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home. Use different pasta types or add seasonal veggies!
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the tender ditalini pasta and flavorful broth, making it an easy choice for family meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for making soups as it allows ample space for ingredients to simmer together.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware surface while ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup:
Meat & Dairy
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pantry Staples
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 quarts chicken stock
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Step 1: Brown 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 sausage and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Onion 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 the sausage to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta
Add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
Step 5: Make it Creamy
Reduce heat. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until cheese is melted and soup is creamy.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Enjoy your flavorful bowl of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!
How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Serving Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting flavors. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or enjoying a meal with family, consider these serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Spread butter and minced garlic on slices of French bread, then toast until golden for a delicious accompaniment.
- Ciabatta Rolls: Soft rolls with a crispy crust are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Add Fresh Toppings
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top not only for color but also for added freshness.
- Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese for those who love an extra cheesy flavor.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Personalized Bowls: Use rustic or colorful bowls to serve individual portions, making the meal feel special and inviting.
- Soup Mugs: For a casual touch, consider using soup mugs for easy handling and warmth.
Offer a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the soup, adding crispness to your meal.
- Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette can balance the creaminess of the soup.
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 enhance the depth of flavor and texture in your dish.
- Use Quality Sausage: Opt for fresh Italian sausage from a local butcher or grocery store for maximum flavor.
- Sauté Vegetables Properly: Take your time to sauté onions and garlic until fragrant; this builds a solid flavor base.
- Adjust Creaminess: Control how creamy you want your soup by adding more or less heavy cream according to your preference.
- Customize Herbs: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary alongside basil and oregano for added complexity.
- Cook Pasta Separately: For optimal texture, cook ditalini pasta separately and add it just before serving if you prefer less starchy broth.
- Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Knots: These fluffy, buttery knots are perfect for soaking up every drop of soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze complement the soup’s flavors well.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds variety and richness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring in extra nutrients and flavor while balancing the creaminess of the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Filled with rice or quinoa, these peppers are hearty enough to stand alongside your comforting soup.
- Pasta Primavera: Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables tossed with olive oil offer a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
- Focaccia Bread: This soft bread topped with herbs is excellent for dipping into your flavorful soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies is nutritious and provides a nice textural contrast.
These side dishes will not only complement your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup but also create a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
- Ignoring the sausage quality: Using low-quality sausage can affect the flavor. Choose fresh, high-quality Italian sausage for the best taste.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for al dente for the best results.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not adjusting salt and pepper after adding cream can lead to bland soup. Taste and season before serving.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness and flavor. Don’t skip this simple garnish; it enhances presentation and taste.
- Rushing the simmering phase: Skipping the simmer time can prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow at least 10 minutes for a richer broth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3–4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Freeze in portioned containers or freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2–3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1–2 minutes, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup that many ask before trying this delicious recipe.
How can I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a hearty texture while keeping other ingredients intact.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can use any small pasta like orzo or macaroni as a substitute in this soup.
How spicy is the soup?
The spiciness depends on the type of sausage used. Opt for sweet Italian sausage for mild flavor or spicy sausage for a kick.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! This soup stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts
Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only creamy and delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. Give this comfort food recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Indulge in the creamy, rich flavors of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a perfect comfort food for any occasion. This hearty soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender ditalini pasta in a velvety Parmesan broth, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners or quick family meals. With only 40 minutes from start to finish, you can easily whip up this delicious dish that warms both the heart and soul. Whether served on a chilly night or as a delightful centerpiece for a gathering, this soup is sure to impress your guests and become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
- 2 quarts chicken stock
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned; remove and set aside.
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the same pot until soft.
- Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, oregano, and return the sausage to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
