If you’ve ever longed for a comforting bowl that brings a burst of flavor and creamy indulgence all in one, then you have to try this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe. It’s a hearty and cozy Italian-American classic that combines savory sausage, tender veggies, and al dente pasta in a luscious, cheesy broth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just crave something soul-warming, this soup effortlessly checks all the boxes and becomes a go-to meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the list—this recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create incredible depth, texture, and color. Every element plays a crucial role, from the spicy kick of Italian sausage to the creamy Parmesan finish that keeps you coming back for more.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps to brown the sausage and infuse an extra layer of richness.
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed: Provides the hearty, savory base that defines this soup.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, classic Italian hint that wakes up your taste buds.
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Balances the richness with a fresh, sweet crunch.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds earthiness and a bit of texture contrast.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a perfect blend of herbs like oregano and basil for authentic taste.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat to brighten the soup.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that ties everything together.
- 1 cup ditalini pasta: Small pasta shapes that soak up the broth while staying delightfully tender.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Creates the irresistibly creamy texture that makes this soup so special.
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds cheesy sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds color, nutrition, and a light, fresh counterpoint to the creamy broth.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until beautifully browned and cooked through. This step is crucial because it builds the deep, meaty flavor base. If there’s excess grease, drain it to keep the soup balanced.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 4 to 5 minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant. This layer adds incredible depth and slight sweetness, ensuring every spoonful is packed with complexity.
Step 3: Adding Seasoning and Broth
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and optional crushed red pepper flakes, stirring to coat the veggies and meat with those vibrant herbs. Then pour in the chicken broth and raise the heat to bring it all to a gentle boil. The broth is what transforms these ingredients into a soul-satisfying soup.
Step 4: Cooking the Pasta
Once boiling, add the ditalini pasta and reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook uncovered for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still holds a slight bite. This timing ensures you get just the right pasta texture without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Stirring in Cream and Cheese
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the soup is luxuriously creamy. This step is where the magic happens, turning a simple broth into a velvety masterpiece.
Step 6: Adding Greens and Seasoning
Finally, fold in the chopped spinach and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until wilted. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your preference, and get ready to enjoy a bowl full of comfort and vibrant flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your soup presentation with extra freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can add a lovely finishing touch and more visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This soup shines when paired with crusty Italian bread for dipping or a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic breadsticks or a sharp, tangy coleslaw also balance the soup’s creamy richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in charming mugs or rustic bowls for a cozy setting. You can also ladle it into mini bread bowls for a fun twist, or top it with crispy pancetta or sautéed mushrooms to add another layer of flavor and texture excitement.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup thickens as it rests, so it’s perfect for enjoying in the days following your first bowl.
Freezing
This soup freezes well if you want to save some for later. Avoid adding spinach before freezing; instead, freeze the soup without greens, then stir in fresh spinach when reheating. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as it thickens in the fridge. Finish by stirring in fresh spinach to revive that lovely green freshness.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage adds a bolder kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth, making the Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe even more vibrant. Adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly if you want to dial up or tone down the heat.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
While this recipe is centered on sausage, you can easily make it vegetarian by substituting the sausage with plant-based sausage and using vegetable broth. Just make sure to still include the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative for the same rich flavor.
Can I substitute another pasta for ditalini?
Definitely. Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo work well too. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time so your pasta stays perfectly al dente and doesn’t overcook.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
For a lighter option, half-and-half works wonderfully without sacrificing too much creaminess. You can also use whole milk with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed in to thicken the soup if you want to reduce fat content.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply swap the ditalini pasta with a gluten-free variety, such as those made from rice or corn. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since cooking times may vary. This keeps your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without losing any deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe is genuinely one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Its rich, comforting flavors and satisfying textures come together effortlessly with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. If you’re looking to make a new family favorite that’s as delicious as it is inviting, don’t hesitate to give this soup a try—you might just find yourself making it over and over again!
Print
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy Parmesan-infused broth. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup combines robust Italian flavors with a velvety texture and nutritious vegetables, delivering a satisfying one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Seasonings and Dairy
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pantry
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery to the sausage. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes, if using, to evenly coat the vegetables and sausage, enhancing the soup’s flavor base.
- Simmer with Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. This forms the soup base and prepares it for cooking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the boiling broth. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth.
- Wilt Spinach: Add the roughly chopped fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes more, just until the greens wilt, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the soup.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- This soup thickens as it sits—add extra chicken broth when reheating to reach your preferred consistency.
- You can swap spinach for kale to add a heartier texture and slightly different flavor profile.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free ditalini pasta instead of regular pasta.
