This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. The rich, velvety broth combines perfectly with the savory bite of Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and the fresh pop of spinach, all topped off with Parmesan cheese for a burst of flavor.
This soup isn’t just hearty and delicious—it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe delivers on every front.
Why you’ll love it:
- Bursting with bold, savory flavors.
- Ready in under 40 minutes for weeknight convenience.
- Customizable with ingredient swaps and variations.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools and Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ensures even cooking and enough space for the soup.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients and breaking up sausage without damaging your pot.
- Knife and cutting board: For precise and safe prep of vegetables and herbs.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures perfect ingredient proportions.
Preparation Tips:
- Ingredient Prep: Chop all vegetables and measure ingredients before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Browning Sausage: Allow the sausage to brown thoroughly for deeper flavor; don’t skip this step!
- Spinach Substitution: If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives.
Ingredients (Organized for Clarity)
Protein:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
Vegetables and Aromatics:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Liquid Base:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Pasta:
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta, such as macaroni or mini shells)
Cheese & Seasonings:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Brown the Sausage:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add 1 lb Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Make the Broth:
- Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the drained diced tomatoes and the cooked sausage.
- Stir in 1 cup ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the Cream and Spinach:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in 1 cup heavy cream, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, and chopped spinach.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
5. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.
- Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
Chef’s Notes and Variations:
- Sausage Options: Use hot Italian sausage for a spicy kick or swap with chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Pasta Alternatives: Any small pasta, such as orzo or mini shells, works well. Adjust cooking time based on the pasta type.
- Tomato Boost: For extra flavor, try using fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup experience with thoughtful serving ideas that enhance its flavors and textures:
- Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with warm crusty bread or a fresh baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Toasted Garlic Bread: Add a garlicky crunch to every bite with toasted garlic bread slices.
- Parmesan Garnish: Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for an added burst of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Side Salad: Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your soup is flawless every time:
- Overcooking the Pasta:
- Adding pasta too early or overcooking can result in a mushy texture.
- Tip: Cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.
- Using Low-Fat Cream:
- Low-fat alternatives can lead to curdling and less creaminess.
- Tip: Stick with heavy cream for a rich and silky broth.
- Skipping Browning the Sausage:
- Failing to brown the sausage robs the soup of its deep, savory flavor.
- Tip: Let the sausage develop a nice crust before removing it from the pot.
- Under-Seasoning the Broth:
- Insufficient seasoning can make the soup taste flat.
- Tip: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper to balance the flavors.
- Overloading with Ingredients:
- Adding too much pasta or spinach can overwhelm the soup’s creamy base.
- Tip: Stick to the recommended amounts for a harmonious balance of textures.
Side Dish Recommendations
Complete your meal with these delightful side dishes:
- Garlic Knots: Buttery and garlicky, they’re the perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy broth.
- Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, Parmesan shavings, and creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the soup’s flavors.
- Caprese Skewers: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers offer a light, refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms complements the hearty soup.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, gooey breadsticks add an irresistible cheesy component to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve an Italian-inspired mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for variety.
- Pesto Crostini: Crispy crostini topped with vibrant pesto adds a burst of flavor and texture.
- Bruschetta: Tomato and basil-topped toasted bread slices provide a fresh and tangy side option.
Recipe Tips for Success
To make your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup absolutely perfect every time, follow these tips:
- Control the Creaminess:
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan.
- If you prefer a lighter consistency, increase the chicken broth by 1/2 cup.
- Pasta Timing:
- To prevent the pasta from soaking up too much liquid, cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
- Boost the Flavor:
- Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth.
- Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make It Vegetarian:
- Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Customize the Greens:
- Swap spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or arugula for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: To freeze, omit the cream and spinach when cooking. Add these fresh when reheating after thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat on low, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup thickens during storage.
- Microwave: Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Substitute ditalini with macaroni, mini shells, or orzo. Adjust the cooking time according to the pasta’s instructions.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by replacing regular pasta with gluten-free pasta, this dish becomes gluten-free.
3. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I make the soup spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red chili flakes when sautéing the aromatics.
5. Can I add more vegetables?
Certainly! Carrots, celery, or zucchini would work well. Dice them finely and sauté with the onion and garlic.
6. Can I freeze the soup with cream in it?
It’s better to freeze the soup base without cream, as dairy may separate upon reheating. Add the cream fresh after thawing.
7. How can I make this soup more filling?
Add a can of white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
8. What can I serve with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh Caesar salad are excellent pairings.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a comforting, hearty meal that brings people together. Its rich, creamy texture and bold Italian flavors make it a dish you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Whether you’re cozying up on a cold night or hosting a dinner party, this soup is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, follow these tips, and enjoy a bowl of this deliciously satisfying soup!
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy, based on preference
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup ditalini pasta or any small pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese plus extra for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the Sausage
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Once fully cooked, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
Make the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and the cooked sausage.
- Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Add the Cream and Spinach
- Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach.
- Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Make It Your Own: Substitute ditalini with any small pasta like macaroni or mini shells.
Tomato Variations: Feel free to use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Leave a Comment