Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup brings together the bold flavors of Italian sausage, hearty pasta, and rich Parmesan for a satisfying and delicious meal. Perfect for cozy nights or serving a crowd, this soup is a blend of savory sausage, aromatic herbs, and a touch of creaminess that makes each spoonful irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make this creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, including the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customizing the recipe to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Hearty & Filling: Packed with Italian sausage, pasta, and rich flavors, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious homemade soup ready in about 30 minutes.
- Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Comforting & Warm: Perfect for chilly days or when you need something cozy to warm you up.
Ingredients
You’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to make this creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup:
For the Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta of your choice)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Additional grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Italian 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 fully cooked. Remove any excess fat if needed.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 2: Add Broth & Seasoning
- Pour in the chicken broth and water, stirring to combine.
- Add the bay leaf, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Add the Pasta & Simmer
- Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low.
Step 4: Add Cream & Parmesan
- Pour in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer gently for an additional 5 minutes to allow the creaminess to develop and the cheese to melt.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
- Serve the creamy Parmesan Italian sausage ditalini soup hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
- Enjoy with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Whether you prefer mild or spicy Italian sausage, the choice is yours! Both options work well and add different flavor profiles.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly and adds a richer flavor than pre-grated Parmesan.
- Make It Creamier: If you prefer a thicker, creamier soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly and increase the heavy cream.
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach for added texture and nutrients.
- Store & Reheat: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool, store in airtight containers, and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While ditalini is traditional, you can substitute it with other small pasta like elbow macaroni, mini shells, or farfalle.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level?
For a milder soup, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. For spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! Use a plant-based cream or dairy-free alternative, and substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free option or nutritional yeast for a similar flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with savory flavors, hearty pasta, and creamy Parmesan, it’s a go-to recipe for chilly nights or when you’re craving something warm and delicious. Try making this easy and flavorful soup, and enjoy the cozy comfort it brings to your table!
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