If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out, look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.
Packed with rich flavors, this soup combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the smooth, creamy texture of Parmesan cheese, creating the perfect balance of taste and satisfaction.
The addition of tender ditalini pasta and fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion brings a nutritious element to the meal, making it both filling and flavorful.
What sets this soup apart is the versatility of ingredients. You can easily adjust the level of spice by choosing mild or spicy sausage, while the creamy broth can be customized with heavy cream or whole milk, depending on your preference for richness.
Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or hosting a gathering, this soup is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make—just a few simple steps for a dish that’s both comforting and delicious. So, grab your ingredients and prepare to enjoy a soul-satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season!
Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups chicken broth (or more if you prefer a thinner soup)
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk (optional for extra creaminess)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1½ cups ditalini pasta
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
Cook the sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside.
Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the veggies are soft. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Build the broth: Add the chicken broth and diced tomatoes to the pot, then bring it to a simmer. Stir in the basil, oregano, and some salt and pepper to taste.
Add pasta and sausage: Stir the cooked sausage back into the pot. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until tender.
Creamy finish: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and milk (if using). Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to meld together. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup.
Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or extra parmesan as needed.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with more grated parmesan and fresh herbs.
FAQs section
What is in Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup typically includes Italian sausage, Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, garlic, onions, spinach or kale, and sometimes potatoes or pasta. It’s a comforting, creamy soup with bold Italian flavors.
2. How do you make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
To make this soup, you typically start by cooking Italian sausage in a pot until browned. Then, sauté onions and garlic, add broth, and simmer. After that, you stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, followed by spinach or kale, letting everything simmer until the flavors meld together. You can also add potatoes or pasta for extra heartiness.
3. Can I make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup ahead of time?
Yes! Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat before serving.
4. Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
Yes, you can use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. Turkey sausage will provide a leaner option while still maintaining much of the flavor. Just make sure to season it well since turkey sausage can sometimes be milder than pork sausage.
5. How do I thicken Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup?
If you want a thicker soup, you can add ingredients like heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, or even a slurry made from flour or cornstarch mixed with water. Simmering the soup for longer can also help reduce the liquid and make it thicker.