Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Description
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a rich, comforting, and hearty dish packed with savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, aromatic herbs, and a creamy parmesan-infused broth. It’s a perfect one-pot meal ideal for cozy dinners, cold weather, or when you want a restaurant-style soup at home. The combination of creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and satisfying pasta makes this soup filling and delicious.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Difficulty: Easy
- Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 cup ditalini pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium carrot, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes (optional)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
1 cup fresh spinach or kale
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Extra parmesan for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
Remove excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot.
Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (if using).
Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add ditalini pasta.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Reduce heat to low.
Stir in heavy cream.
Gradually add parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Add spinach or kale if using and cook until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot with extra parmesan and fresh herbs.
- Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another pasta instead of ditalini?
Yes. Small pasta like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo works well.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze without pasta or cream for best texture. Add them when reheating.
4. How can I make it lighter?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of pork.
5. How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer longer, add extra parmesan, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.
6. Can I make it spicy?
Use hot Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes.
- Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fat: 34 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Cholesterol: 95 mg
Sodium: 900 mg
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g