When I first whipped up this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, I knew it was going to be a family favorite. The rich, velvety broth, paired with savory Italian sausage and tender ditalini pasta, creates a comforting bowl of perfection. It’s one of those recipes that warms you from the inside out and, honestly, couldn’t be simpler to make.
What I love most? It’s a one-pot wonder, so cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or indulging at a dinner party, this soup sings with flavor while remaining a reliable comfort food. Trust me, you’ll want seconds (or thirds)!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This soup is a delicious blend of creamy, savory, and hearty with a touch of Italian charm. Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and easy to make: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal cleanup: This one-pot meal saves you from a mountain of dishes.
- Customizable flavors: You can easily swap ingredients or adjust the spice level for your family’s preferences.
- Rich and filling: The combination of cream, cheese, and sausage creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for colder months.
- Kid-friendly: The mild sausage and playful ditalini pasta make it a hit with little ones.
Cooking Time
Here’s how this quick and easy soup fits into your schedule:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Make sure to gather these simple ingredients for a pot of soup that’s brimming with flavor:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed, if needed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes
- 8 oz ditalini pasta, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 oz cream cheese, slightly softened
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Variations
Add your own flair to this recipe and make it fit your dietary needs or taste preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Dairy-free: Swap the cream and cream cheese for coconut milk and dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.
- Vegetable-packed: Add diced carrots, celery, or a handful of fresh spinach to boost the nutrition.
- Spicy kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra zing.
- Low-carb: Replace the ditalini pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Equipment You’ll Need
Make this soup with ease using these essentials:
- Stock pot: For cooking everything in one go.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching cookware.
- Ladle: Ideal for serving hearty portions with ease.
- Chef’s knife: To chop onions and other fresh garnishes.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?
This mouthwatering soup is as easy to make as it is to enjoy. Follow these steps to bring it all together:
Step 1: Cook the sausage and onions
Start by heating a large stock pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and chopped onions, breaking the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once the sausage is browned and the onions are translucent, drain any excess grease. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to avoid sticking! 🍳
Step 2: Add the aromatics and broth
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until it releases its heavenly aroma. Add the chicken broth, petite diced tomatoes, ditalini pasta, and Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir, then bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 6-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente. 🥣
Step 3: Create the creamy base
Reduce the heat to low and carefully mix in the softened cream cheese, grated parmesan, and heavy whipping cream. Continue stirring until they melt into the broth, creating a rich and luscious base. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle fresh parsley on top for extra freshness. 🧀
Step 4: Serve and enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a little extra parmesan or parsley if desired, and serve it warm. Pair it with crusty bread for a cozy, satisfying meal. 🍵
Tips for Making the Recipe
Follow these tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time:
- Room temperature ingredients: Bring the cream cheese to room temperature before adding it. This will help it melt smoothly into the broth.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the ditalini while it cooks. You want it firm yet tender to avoid it soaking up too much broth.
- Balance the flavors: Taste the soup after adding the cream and cheese. Adjust the saltiness and pepper to enhance the other ingredients.
- Reheat gently: If making ahead, reheat on low heat to preserve the creamy texture without breaking the sauce.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?
Serve this comforting soup as the star of your meal. For a visually elevated presentation, garnish each bowl with extra grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly cracked pepper. Pair with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete dining experience. Leftovers? They make a mouthwatering lunch the next day!
Nutritional Information
This soup is as satisfying as it is nourishing. Here’s a quick nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 26g
Make Ahead and Storage
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead option!
If you plan to enjoy it later, cook the soup as directed but leave out the pasta until the day you’re serving it. Pasta absorbs liquid over time, so cooking it fresh ensures the soup remains brothy. Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, you can add a splash of additional broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, reheat it gently on the stovetop, and cook fresh pasta to stir in just before serving.
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is hearty, flavorful, and deceptively easy to make. Whether you’re hosting friends or curling up with a bowl on the couch, this recipe promises to become a favorite in your household. 🌟