Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to warm you up on a chilly day, this soup delivers. With tender ditalini pasta swimming in a rich broth and featuring Italian sausage as the star ingredient, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy Parmesan creates a deliciously rich flavor profile.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a hearty main dish or serve it alongside your favorite salad or bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for future meals.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out the pasta for another type!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for making soups; it allows ample space for ingredients to simmer together nicely.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even cooking throughout.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, enhancing your cooking experience.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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 from the pot and set aside, leaving drippings behind.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, dried basil, and oregano. Return the browned sausage to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

Add ditalini pasta to the soup. Cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.

Step 5: Make it Creamy

Reduce heat. Stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy this delicious Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup that brings warmth and comfort in every bowl!

How to Serve Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is all about enhancing its comforting flavors while keeping the experience enjoyable. Here are some great ideas to make your soup serving special.

Classic Presentation

• Serve in warm, rustic bowls for an inviting look.
• Garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and added flavor.

Bread Pairing

• Accompany with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Offer slices of ciabatta or a French baguette for a satisfying crunch.

Salad Side

• A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a squeeze of lemon for freshness.

Cheese Crust Option

• Top the soup with melted mozzarella cheese, broiling until bubbly for a cheesy twist.
• This adds a delightful texture and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Perfecting this hearty soup can elevate your cooking game. Here are some handy tips to make it even better.

• Use quality sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for deeper flavor and better texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook; adjusting salt and pepper in stages ensures balanced seasoning.
• Add vegetables: Incorporate additional veggies like carrots or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Control creaminess: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the aromatic profile of your soup.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crisp on the outside and soft inside, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caesar Salad – A classic side that complements the flavors with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Season seasonal veggies such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots; roast until tender for added flavor.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – Flavorful mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make a delightful finger food alongside your soup.
6. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with fresh veggies and Italian dressing works well to balance the warmth of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage can lead to a bland flavor. Take the time to cook it until golden brown for that rich taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for al dente texture.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Different brands of chicken stock vary in saltiness. Always taste and adjust the seasoning at the end for a balanced flavor.
• Not using fresh herbs: Opting for dried herbs may lack the vibrant flavors of fresh ones. If possible, use fresh basil and parsley for a more aromatic experience.
• Rushing the simmering process: A quick simmer won’t develop deep flavors. Let your soup simmer gently to allow all ingredients to meld beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.

Can I use turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will provide a similar texture while keeping it leaner.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use coconut cream or a mixture of milk and cornstarch if you prefer a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What is ditalini pasta?

Ditalini is a small tubular pasta that is perfect for soups. It holds onto the broth well and adds heartiness to each spoonful.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers to enhance nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only creamy and hearty but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables based on your preference. It’s an excellent choice for lunch or dinner that will warm you up on any chilly day. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!