When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, hearty soup—especially one as indulgent and flavorful as this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. With savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy broth, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. The combination of creamy textures and bold Italian flavors will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
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Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Let me tell you: this soup is comfort in a bowl. It’s rich, creamy, and bursting with layers of flavor that feel both indulgent and approachable. The juicy Italian sausage adds just the right amount of spice, while the ditalini pasta is perfectly bite-sized and tender, making each spoonful a delight. And let’s not forget the creamy Parmesan broth—so luxurious it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it (but we’ll keep the secret that it’s super simple!).
Reasons to Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and filling: Perfect for a main meal or a starter.
- Easy to make: Ready in about 30 minutes, with simple ingredients.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Make-ahead friendly: It’s even better the next day after the flavors have melded together!
What Does Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Taste Like?
This soup is the definition of comfort. The savory Italian sausage brings robust flavor with just a hint of spice, balanced beautifully by the creaminess of the Parmesan and heavy cream. The softened bits of onion and garlic infuse the broth with sweetness and depth, while the tender ditalini pasta creates an irresistible texture. Each bite is creamy, cheesy, and just a little tangy thanks to the addition of cream cheese. It’s rich without being overly heavy—pure perfection for cold weather!
Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this irresistible soup:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
Feeling creative? Here are some ways you can tweak the recipe to fit your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Pasta: Swap ditalini for small shells, elbow macaroni, or orzo.
- Protein: Use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini for a boost of greens.
- Cheese: Substitute Pecorino Romano for Parmesan, or add a sprinkle of mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Here’s the step-by-step process to create this delightful dish:
1. Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a Large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon , and cook until browned and cooked through. Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
2. Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained diced tomatoes. Give it all a good stir to combine, then season with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Cook the Pasta
Once the soup is boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Stir in the softened cream cheese, letting it melt completely into the broth. Then, pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle it into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and get ready to dig in!
What to Serve with This Soup
This creamy, hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth. You can also serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
- Use high-quality Parmesan: It makes all the difference in the flavor of the broth!
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Remember that it will continue to soften as it sits in the hot soup.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it in advance.
How to Store Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the soup (minus the pasta) for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat, then cook fresh pasta to stir in before serving.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a slightly lighter version.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure! Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty twist.
Wrapping It All Up
There you have it: a creamy, comforting bowl of Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe is perfect for any weeknight dinner, lazy weekend meal, or whenever you’re craving something warm and satisfying. Give it a try, and don’t forget to pair it with some crusty bread for the ultimate cozy experience.
I can’t wait to see how your soup turns out! Leave a comment below with your thoughts, and don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest. Let’s spread the love for delicious, homemade meals!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~420
Protein: ~20g
Carbohydrates: ~22g
Fat: ~30g
Fiber: ~2g
Enjoy your bowl of creamy, cheesy happiness!
