Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cozy nights. This delightful soup combines flavorful Italian sausage with tender ditalini pasta, fresh spinach, and rich cream, all simmered in a savory broth. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness that elevates the entire dish.

Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this soup makes for a satisfying meal that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping. It’s sure to warm you up and please the whole family!

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending 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 small pasta of choice)

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:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the Italian sausage and cook until it is browned, breaking it into small pieces while it cooks.

Once done, remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, introduce the diced onion and minced garlic.

Sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their aroma.

Step 3: 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, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Spinach

Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach.

Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy.

Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.

Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal!

This creamy and flavorful soup is sure to be a hit at your table!

Notes:

Sausage Choice: You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference. For a unique flavor, try using chicken or turkey sausage as a lighter alternative.

Pasta Options: While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with any small pasta like elbows, shells, or orzo. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use.

Broth Variety: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you want a vegetarian version, vegetable broth works well, but you may need to adjust the seasonings.

Spinach Substitutes: If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use kale or Swiss chard. Just ensure to chop them finely and cook them until tender.

Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you can add a little extra broth or water when reheating.

Garnish Ideas: Fresh basil or oregano can be used as an alternative or in addition to parsley for garnishing. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add an extra kick if desired.

Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad to complete your meal.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance.

However, it’s best to add the pasta and spinach just before serving, as they can become overcooked and mushy if left in the soup for too long.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.

For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative.

Is it possible to freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the pasta. Cooked pasta can become mushy when thawed. To reheat, simply add fresh pasta and heat until cooked through.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage, adding red pepper flakes, or including a diced jalapeño or other hot pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers.

Just make sure to sauté them along with the onion and garlic until they’re tender.

What type of pot is best for making this soup?

A large stockpot or Dutch oven is ideal for this soup, as it allows for even cooking and enough space to stir all the ingredients without spilling.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting too soft?

To prevent the pasta from becoming mushy, cook it just until al dente according to package instructions, and avoid overcooking it.

If you plan to have leftovers, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it to each bowl just before serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes! About 2-3 medium tomatoes, diced, can be used in place of the canned tomatoes.

Just keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may release more liquid, so you might want to adjust the broth accordingly.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?

If the soup becomes too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Stir well and let it heat through.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup (without the pasta) for up to 2-3 months.

Just reheat and add fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it again.