Introduction:
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or hearty lunches. This Italian-inspired soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a creamy, cheesy broth that makes each spoonful satisfying and full of flavor. The combination of rich Parmesan cheese, aromatic herbs, and fresh parsley garnish brings out the best in each ingredient, making this a family favorite. With a total preparation and cooking time of just 35 minutes, it’s a great weeknight meal for busy households. Let’s dive into the full recipe.
Overview of the Recipe:
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a one-pot wonder, combining Italian sausage, small pasta, and a rich, creamy broth for a satisfying meal. The dish strikes a balance between heartiness and comfort, with the richness of the Parmesan cheese perfectly complementing the spicy sausage. It’s seasoned with Italian herbs like basil and oregano, which infuse the broth with a depth of flavor. The small ditalini pasta or elbow pasta absorbs the broth’s essence, making every bite delicious. Topped with fresh parsley, this soup is a fantastic dish for any season.
History and Origin:
Italian sausage soups have been a staple in Italian cuisine, often served as a first course or main meal during colder months. The combination of meat, pasta, and broth in Italian cooking dates back centuries, with many variations found throughout Italy. This specific recipe draws inspiration from the creamy soups of Northern Italy, where dairy plays a significant role in the local cuisine. Parmesan, a hard cheese originating from the Parma region, is a key element in this dish, providing both flavor and creaminess. Although this dish is not traditional in the sense of ancient Italian recipes, it blends classic Italian ingredients in a way that modern cooks love.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed) – use either mild or spicy, depending on preference
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Cook the sausage until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is fully browned and cooked through, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Using the same pot (with the sausage drippings still in it for flavor), add the diced onion.
- Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Next, add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, allowing them to mix with the sautéed onions and garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried basil and oregano.
- Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook the Pasta:
- Once the broth mixture is boiling, add the small pasta (either ditalini or elbow pasta).
- Cook the pasta in the broth according to the package instructions or until it is al dente, usually about 8–10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
5. Make it Creamy:
- After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to mix well with the broth and pasta.
- Gradually add the shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously as it melts and thickens the soup.
- This process should take about 3–4 minutes.
6. Add the Sausage Back In:
- Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir it into the soup.
- Allow the sausage to reheat and absorb some of the creamy broth for 1–2 minutes.
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
- Enjoy your creamy, hearty bowl of Italian-inspired soup!
Serving:
This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Serve it hot, with a side of crusty bread or a light green salad to balance out the richness of the soup.
Calories per serving: 450 kcal
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup pairs beautifully with simple side dishes or appetizers. Here are a few ideas to complement your meal:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: The rich broth is perfect for dipping.
- Light Green Salad: A refreshing mixed greens salad with a balsamic vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the soup’s creaminess.
- Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, can make the meal feel complete.
- Parmesan Cheese Crisps: Serve alongside for a crispy texture that adds a burst of Parmesan flavor.
Variations of the Recipe:
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some variations to suit different tastes or dietary needs:
- Substitute Meat: For a lighter version, swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta or substitute the ditalini with a gluten-free option such as rice or quinoa.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
- Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Lower Calorie: To reduce the calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk, though the soup will be slightly less creamy.
Health Benefits:
This soup can be both hearty and nutritious when made with fresh ingredients. Some of the health benefits include:
- Protein-Rich: Italian sausage adds a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Calcium from Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, promoting healthy bones and teeth.
- Antioxidants from Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that help boost immunity and fight inflammation.
- Healthy Fats: Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and beneficial for overall well-being.
If you opt for the turkey or chicken sausage and adjust the cream, this soup can be a lower-calorie option as well, making it a versatile dish that suits different dietary preferences.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to leave out the pasta until you’re ready to serve. Pasta can become mushy if it sits in the broth for too long. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and cook the pasta separately, then combine them.
2. How should I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. You may need to add a bit of broth or cream to thin it out as it reheats.
3. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well, but as with storing leftovers, it’s best to leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it. Freeze the soup base (sausage, broth, tomatoes, etc.) and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to eat.
4. Can I use a different type of cheese? While Parmesan cheese adds a distinct flavor and creaminess, you can also experiment with Pecorino Romano or even mozzarella for a different twist.
Conclusion:
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a main course on a chilly evening or enjoying it as a lunch throughout the week, this soup is guaranteed to please. Its creamy texture, combined with the savory Italian sausage and rich Parmesan, makes it a standout dish that’s both filling and delicious. The simple ingredients and quick preparation time make this recipe a go-to for weeknights or gatherings. Customize it with your favorite variations and pairings for a meal everyone will love. Enjoy!
Print
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a rich, hearty dish featuring savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a creamy Parmesan-infused broth. It’s a quick, one-pot recipe perfect for cozy nights or simple, comforting meals.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup ditalini or elbow pasta
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil and cook Italian sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté diced onion and garlic until softened.
- Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
- Lower heat, add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until creamy.
- Return sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute the cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or swap sausage for ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1000mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg