Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

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Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup 🍲🧀

Cozy up with this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup—a rich, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly nights. This Italian-inspired soup features savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a luscious Parmesan cream broth that will warm you from the inside out.

The best part? It’s a one-pot meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Serve it with crusty bread or garlic toast for the ultimate comfort food experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️

✔ Ultra Creamy & Flavorful – The Parmesan-infused broth is rich, creamy, and packed with savory goodness.

✔ Easy One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!

✔ Perfect for Leftovers – The flavors get even better the next day!

✔ Customizable – Add veggies, switch up the pasta, or make it spicy!

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Soup Base:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth

For the Creamy Finish:

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage 🍖

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
  3. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  4. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

💡 Pro Tip: If using spicy sausage, it adds a nice kick to balance the creamy broth!

2. Sauté the Aromatics 🧅🧄

  1. In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic.
  2. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and translucent.

3. Build the Flavor 🍅

  1. Stir in drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, and dried oregano.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

4. Cook the Pasta 🍝

  1. Add 1 cup ditalini pasta to the broth.
  2. Cook for 8–10 minutes (or until al dente).

💡 Pro Tip: If making ahead, cook pasta separately and add it just before serving to avoid it soaking up too much liquid.

5. Make it Creamy 🧀🥛

  1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
  2. Stir in heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese.
  3. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the soup thickens.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra creamy texture, add ½ block (4 oz) of cream cheese!

6. Add the Sausage & Season

  1. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir well.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve & Enjoy! 🍲

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping!

Serving Suggestions 🍞🥗

✔ Garlic Bread or Crostini – Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth!
✔ Side Salad – A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating

✔ Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
✔ Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months (without pasta).
✔ Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Tips for the Best Italian Sausage Soup

✔ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan – It melts better and gives the broth a smooth, velvety texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Pasta – It will continue to absorb liquid as it sits.
✔ Want It Spicy? – Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes!
✔ Make It Healthier – Swap half-and-half for heavy cream and use turkey sausage.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup in the slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add everything except pasta, cream, and cheese. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Stir in pasta and dairy 30 minutes before serving.

2. What if my soup is too thick?
Add extra chicken broth or milk to thin it out.

3. Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! Try orzo, elbow macaroni, or mini shells.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk & cream cheese for a similar texture.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cozy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal prepping, or just craving something warm and hearty, this soup will be a hit!

Would you like some cheesy garlic bread or a lower-carb version next? 😊

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