A warm and comforting bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family. This delicious soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich, creamy parmesan broth that will tantalize your taste buds. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive holiday gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 35 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal.
- Flavorful Comfort: The blend of Italian sausage and parmesan creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the vegetables or pasta types based on what you have at home.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without losing flavor.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparing this soup easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and chopping board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 lb Italian sausage, deboned
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 quarts chicken stock
For Creaminess
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
For Flavoring
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1/2 tsp each dried basil, oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until they are fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Stock
Add the can of diced tomatoes along with the chicken stock. Stir in dried basil and oregano. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Cook Pasta
Once simmering, add in the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
After the pasta is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only delicious but also a fulfilling meal that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Serving your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your presentation and enjoyment.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread: The tangy flavor pairs well and is perfect for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Adds a savory touch that complements the soup’s richness.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings out the Italian flavors in the soup.
Topped with Cheese
- Extra Parmesan: A bit of grated Parmesan on top enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella adds creaminess and a stretchy texture.
With a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing provide a nice contrast.
- Italian Chopped Salad: A mix of veggies and olives adds crunch and vibrancy.
How to Perfect Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
To ensure your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Opt for fresh herbs instead of dried for a brighter taste.
- Cream at the End: Add heavy cream towards the end of cooking to maintain its richness.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions to avoid overcooked pasta.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper as needed during cooking for balanced seasoning.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Complementing your soup with the right side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your soup.
- Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlic-infused rolls are perfect for mopping up soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of meats, cheeses, and olives adds variety and flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide a healthy balance to the meal.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer a hearty addition to your table.
- Focaccia Bread: This soft, flavorful bread is ideal for dipping into the creamy broth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes you want to avoid for the best results.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the flavor of your soup. Always choose fresh, high-quality Italian sausage and good parmesan cheese for a rich taste.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the ditalini pasta too long, it will become mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente cooking and add it to the soup towards the end.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving can lead to blandness. Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Not letting it simmer: Skipping the simmering step may result in a soup that lacks depth. Allowing it to simmer helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
- Neglecting garnishes: Forgetting fresh parsley or other garnishes can make the dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness that elevates your presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Portion out into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.
Can I make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What type of Italian sausage is best?
Mild or spicy Italian sausage works well depending on your preference. Use fresh sausage for optimal flavor.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta like elbow macaroni or mini shells.
How do I customize my Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition or swap in different herbs according to your taste.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, use gluten-free pasta and check labels on chicken stock and sausage.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only hearty but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try!
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Warm your soul with a delightful bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. This comforting dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich, creamy parmesan broth that’s perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with loved ones. In just 35 minutes, you can prepare this easy-to-make soup that’s bursting with flavor and sure to impress. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive occasion, this soup is versatile enough for any meal. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep—make a large batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 quarts chicken stock
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- Dried basil
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the Italian sausage. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the same pot until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and chicken stock; add dried herbs and return sausage to the pot. Simmer gently.
- Cook ditalini pasta in the simmering soup until al dente.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Season to taste and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider tossing in leafy greens like spinach or kale. Feel free to substitute ditalini with other small pasta types if desired.
