Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a family favorite, with its perfect balance of savory Italian sausage, hearty ditalini pasta, and luxurious Parmesan cream. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The blend of fresh garlic, tomatoes, and chicken stock adds depth of flavor, while the creamy finish makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (preferably fresh from a deli)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (extra if you love garlic)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 2 quarts chicken stock

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 cup ditalini pasta

• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and fresh cracked black pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it up as it cooks until browned. Set aside, leaving the flavorful bits in the pot.

2. Build the base: In the same pot, cook diced onion and garlic until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).

3. Create the soup: Add diced tomatoes, chicken stock, basil, and oregano. Stir to combine, then return sausage to the pot.

4. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Add pasta and cream: Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook until tender. Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the Parmesan until melted.

6. Season: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes

• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy: Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat.

• Lighter version: Substitute turkey sausage and reduce the cream.

• Pasta alternatives: Use any small pasta like elbow macaroni or orzo.

• Vegetarian: Skip the sausage and add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock to restore the creamy texture and prevent the pasta from becoming too soft. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze this soup due to the cream, which may separate upon reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use turkey sausage or even spicy sausage for different flavor profiles.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta such as elbow macaroni, orzo, or small shells will work.

5. What can I serve this soup with?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or a light antipasto.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is not gluten-free due to the ditalini pasta. You can substitute gluten-free pasta if needed.

7. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can brown the sausage ahead of time and then add all ingredients to a slow cooker to cook on low for 4-6 hours.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

9. How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

Add the cream at a low simmer, not boiling, to prevent it from curdling.

10. How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage ditalini soup is the perfect comfort food for any day that calls for warmth and heartiness. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s easy to make yet feels like a special meal every time. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy evening alone, this soup delivers rich, comforting flavors that are sure to please.