This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage ditalini soup is a warm bowl of comfort! Packed with tasty sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy broth, it’s perfect for chilly days.
You’ll love how hearty and creamy it is. I like to top mine with extra cheese and a bit of parsley for a pop of color. Grab some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a cozy meal! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star ingredient, bringing tons of flavor to the soup. You can use either mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works well too!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth adds great depth, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re going vegetarian, use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Ditalini Pasta: These small tubular pasta pieces provide a perfect bite. If you can’t find ditalini, try using small shells, or elbow macaroni as a substitute.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. If you’re watching calories, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will change a bit.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Well-Seasoned?
To get that nice creamy texture, be sure to add the heavy cream and Parmesan slowly and stir consistently. This helps the cheese melt perfectly without clumping, creating a smooth soup.
- Cook your sausage well to develop flavor; drain excess fat if needed before adding veggies.
- Don’t rush the simmering step—allow the pasta to cook thoroughly so it absorbs the flavors.
- Taste as you go! Adjusting salt and pepper at the end ensures your soup has just the right kick.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups (1.4 L) chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. With a total time of about 45 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a comforting bowl of creamy goodness in no time!
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, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the drippings. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. They should start to get a nice golden color!
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Stir in the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will definitely smell amazing during this step!
4. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it bubble away for a minute.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Add the ditalini pasta and cooked sausage back into the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes. Make sure to give it a gentle stir now and then!
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese has melted and the soup becomes creamy. This is the moment where it all comes together!
7. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste! Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy your hearty, creamy bowl of goodness!
Dig in and enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy Parmesan Italian sausage ditalini soup!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for Italian sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just be sure to add some extra seasonings, like fennel seeds and Italian herbs, to mimic the sausage flavor!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to enhance the flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the cream right before serving, as it can change the texture when heated multiple times.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if necessary to restore creaminess.
