Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
If you’re looking for a cozy bowl of comfort that warms the soul, then this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is just what you need. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy broth, tender pasta, and savory sausage—it reminds me of family gatherings and chilly evenings spent together. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal on the table fast or for those lazy Sundays when you want to indulge in pure comfort food.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also brings everyone together at the table, making it a beloved favorite in my home. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a special occasion, this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup never fails to impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
- Family-Friendly: With rich flavors and creamy goodness, even the pickiest eaters will love it!
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for an effortless meal later.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with whatever vegetables or spices you have on hand!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful soup is simple and straightforward. You’ll find that these wholesome components come together beautifully to create a dish that’s full of flavor.
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
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Swap the protein: If you’re in the mood for something different, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage.
- Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale just before serving for an extra nutritional boost!
- Change up the pasta: If you don’t have ditalini on hand, other small pasta shapes like elbows or shells work great too!
- Make it spicy: For those who love a kick, add some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onion and garlic.
How to Make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
First, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup! Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside while keeping those delicious drippings.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add diced onion and minced garlic to the same pot. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 3–4 minutes is perfect! This process enhances their sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to stir in those drained tomatoes along with your chicken stock, dried basil, and oregano. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, then bring everything to a gentle simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Pasta
Once your soup has simmered nicely, toss in your ditalini pasta. Cook until it’s al dente—usually around 8–10 minutes. Keep an eye on it so that you get that perfect bite!
Step 5: Creamy Finish
Lower the heat now as you stir in heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until everything is melted together into a creamy bliss! This step is key because it transforms your broth into something truly luxurious.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Lastly, season your soup with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot! Each bowl will be filled with warmth and comfort—just what you want after a long day.
Enjoy every spoonful of this delectable Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup; it’s sure to become one of your favorites as well!
Pro Tips for Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Making this soup is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate it to perfection!
-
Choose Quality Sausage: Selecting high-quality Italian sausage will enhance the overall flavor of the soup. Look for fresh, locally made options if possible.
-
Don’t Skip the Cream: Adding heavy cream at the end creates that luxurious, creamy texture that makes this soup so comforting. It balances the acidity from the tomatoes beautifully.
-
Cook Pasta Separately: If you prefer your ditalini to retain its firmness, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy in the soup.
-
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! The flavors can vary based on the sausage and stock used, so seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking ensures a delicious final product.
-
Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!
How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Serving this dish can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present your delicious soup.
Garnishes
-
Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that brightens up each bowl.
-
Crusty Bread Crumbs: Toasted bread crumbs on top add a lovely crunch and extra texture, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
-
Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, garlic bread brings an irresistible buttery flavor that complements every bite.
-
Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make for a hearty side that adds nutritional value and vibrant colors to your meal.
By following these tips and pairing suggestions, your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup will not only taste amazing but also impress all who gather around your table! Enjoy every comforting bowlful!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, ensuring you always have a comforting bowl of goodness ready to go.
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date so you can keep track of freshness.
Freezing
- Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space at the top of containers, as the soup will expand when frozen.
- Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Heat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken stock if needed to adjust consistency.
- Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals until hot.
FAQs
Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!
Can I use other types of sausage for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to maintain that tasty flavor.
How do I make Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian-friendly, replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles or lentils and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The flavors will still be rich and satisfying!
Can I add vegetables to my Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?
Yes! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers during the cooking process for added nutrition and flavor.
How long does Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making this comforting Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup as much as I do! It’s such a heartwarming dish that brings family and friends together around the table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients, and remember: cooking is all about joy and creativity. Happy cooking!
Parmesan Italian Turkey Ditalini Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
If you’re craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup, this Parmesan Italian Ditalini Soup is the perfect solution. With its creamy broth, tender ditalini pasta, and savory Italian sausage, it’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. This hearty soup not only delivers rich flavors but also brings family and friends together around the table. In just about 40 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal that’s sure to impress everyone. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap in ground turkey for a lighter option. Enjoy every spoonful of this satisfying comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey sausage (or chicken sausage)
- 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 pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground turkey sausage and cook until browned. Remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the drained tomatoes, chicken stock, dried basil, and oregano. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente (8–10 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
