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This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food! Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a starter, this soup is sure to warm your soul.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy: A velvety, cheesy broth that’s utterly comforting.
- Easy to make: Ready in under 45 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite pasta, veggies, or spices.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the soup to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until tender, usually 8-10 minutes.
5. Add Cream and Parmesan
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup cook for another 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
6. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage is key, so choose a good-quality Italian sausage.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente to avoid mushy noodles.
- Adjust Consistency: For a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
- Garnish Creatively: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Variations and Add-Ons
This recipe is super versatile! Here are some fun ways to customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Cheesy Goodness: Add more cheese like mozzarella or Romano for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is perfect for:
- Dinner: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- Lunch: Pack it in a thermos for a warm, comforting meal on the go.
- Potlucks: Bring it to gatherings in a portable pot or slow cooker.
- Leftovers: Enjoy it the next day—it tastes even better as the flavors meld!
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup (without the cream and pasta) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding the cream and cooked pasta before serving.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Small pasta shapes like orzo, elbow macaroni, or small shells work well.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cream and pasta during the last 30 minutes.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the soup will be less rich. For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of milk before adding it to the soup.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food—savory, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight meal, it’s sure to be a hit.
Let’s Cook Together!
I’d love to hear how your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup turns out! Share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media with #LivelyDish. Happy cooking! 🍲✨