Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe

This rich and flavorful soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy parmesan base that’s perfectly comforting for a chilly day. Ditalini, a small, tube-shaped pasta, adds texture and absorbs the soup’s flavor in every bite. The combination of aromatic vegetables, garlic, and a luscious creamy broth makes this soup a family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish will impress every time.

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
2. Cook the Sausage: Cook the sausage for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and fully cooked through. Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. You’ll add it back to the soup later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onions: In the same pot, add the diced onion. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become translucent and soft.
2. Add the Garlic and Other Vegetables: Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, until it becomes fragrant. Add the diced carrots, celery, and zucchini (if using), and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

1. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Let them cook for a minute or two, letting the flavors meld with the vegetables.
2. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, and add the dried oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine all the ingredients. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing it to cook for 10-15 minutes, so the vegetables become tender and the flavors deepen.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Add the Pasta: Once the broth is simmering, add the ditalini pasta to the soup. Stir to combine, then let the soup simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Check the Consistency: Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks. If the soup thickens too much during this process, add a bit more chicken broth or water to loosen it up to your preferred consistency.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Parmesan

1. Stir in the Cream: After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir it into the soup. This will add a velvety smoothness to the soup and help create that rich, creamy texture.
2. Add Parmesan: Stir in the grated parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup. This will thicken the soup slightly and infuse it with a nutty, cheesy flavor.

Step 6: Season and Finish the Soup

1. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. The sausage and parmesan will add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
2. Return the Sausage: Finally, add the browned sausage back into the pot, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
3. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage will dominate the soup, so be sure to use high-quality Italian sausage. If you can, buy fresh sausage from a local butcher or grocery store that offers artisanal sausages.
• Control the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage or increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Conversely, for a milder flavor, opt for sweet Italian sausage and skip the red pepper flakes.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Pasta continues to cook once added to the soup, so keep a close eye on it to avoid mushy pasta. Cook it just until al dente to ensure the soup maintains its perfect texture.
• Make it More Veggie-Packed: Feel free to load up the soup with additional vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. If you add leafy greens, toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they retain their color and texture.
• Thicken the Soup: If you like your soup thicker, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. This will give the broth a creamier base while leaving some texture from the vegetables.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make-Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. In fact, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. However, the pasta might absorb some of the broth when frozen, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating. It’s best to freeze the soup without the cream and parmesan, adding those ingredients after reheating to maintain the soup’s creamy texture.
• Reheating: When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid curdling the cream. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit more chicken broth to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Sausage Alternatives:
   • You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. For a more substantial dish, try substituting sausage with ground beef, turkey, or pork.
2. Vegan/Vegetarian Version:
   • For a vegetarian version, you can skip the sausage and instead use crumbled plant-based sausage or even lentils for protein. For extra flavor, add a little smoked paprika to mimic the savory, umami-rich taste that sausage provides.
3. Dairy-Free:
   • If you want to make this soup dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream (like almond or cashew cream) and skip the parmesan or use a vegan cheese substitute.
4. Different Pasta Choices:
   • While ditalini pasta is traditional for this soup, feel free to use other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or even small shells. The key is to use a pasta that holds up well and absorbs the flavors of the soup.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing with soup, the crunchy, buttery garlic bread helps balance the creamy soup and is perfect for dipping.
2. Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the soup and provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or a medley of root vegetables would add a healthy and hearty touch to your meal.
4. Wine Pairing:
   • A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc would be an excellent choice to balance the creaminess of the soup.
   • If you prefer red, a medium-bodied red like Chianti or Merlot will pair nicely with the sausage and hearty broth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even though this soup is easy to make, there are a few issues you might encounter. Let’s address some common problems and how to avoid them:

1. Soup is Too Thick

• Problem: Sometimes, the soup may thicken up too much, especially after the pasta has absorbed a lot of the broth.
• Solution: If you find your soup too thick, simply add more chicken broth or water, a little at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a creamier texture, adding a splash more heavy cream can help.

2. Soup is Too Thin

• Problem: If the soup is too thin after cooking the pasta and adding cream, it might lack body.
• Solution: A quick fix for this is to stir in a little more parmesan cheese or let the soup simmer for a bit longer to allow the flavors to concentrate. If you have time, you can also blend a portion of the soup to make it thicker while retaining some texture.

3. Pasta Overcooked and Mushy

• Problem: Overcooking pasta can lead to mushy, soft noodles that don’t hold up well in the soup.
• Solution: Pasta should be added near the end of the cooking process. Once it’s cooked, if there’s any leftover soup, store it without the pasta. This will keep the pasta from absorbing too much broth and turning mushy.

4. Too Much Grease from the Sausage

• Problem: Sometimes, the sausage can release a lot of grease, which might make the soup feel too oily.
• Solution: After cooking the sausage, drain the excess fat before adding it back into the soup. This will prevent the soup from becoming too greasy. You can even use a paper towel to blot the sausage if needed.

Customizing the Recipe

One of the great things about this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is its versatility. Here are several ways you can tailor the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

Flavor Enhancements

• Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs are great, fresh herbs can add an extra layer of freshness to the soup. Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary right at the end of cooking for an aromatic twist.
• Smoked Sausage: For a smoky depth of flavor, consider using smoked sausage or chorizo in place of traditional Italian sausage. This will add a unique smoky and spicy note.
• Garlic Confit: If you want to intensify the garlic flavor, consider using garlic confit (slow-cooked garlic in olive oil). The sweet, mellow garlic pairs beautifully with the creamy soup.

Add Extra Vegetables

• Spinach or Kale: Adding greens like spinach or kale is a great way to boost the nutritional value of the soup while adding color. Simply stir them in toward the end of cooking.
• Bell Peppers: Diced bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and color to the soup, balancing the richness of the sausage and cream.

Changing the Protein

• Chicken Sausage: If you’re looking for a lighter option, swap out the pork sausage for chicken sausage. It will still provide a flavorful base but with less fat.
• Ground Beef or Turkey: If you prefer ground beef or turkey, they will work well in this recipe. Be sure to season them properly to infuse the same depth of flavor as the Italian sausage.
• Plant-Based Protein: For a vegetarian or vegan version, use plant-based sausage (such as Beyond Sausage) or crumbled tofu for protein. Just be sure to season it well to replicate the savory flavors of sausage.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, you can swap out the cream for a coconut cream or almond milk-based cream. Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast can also be used in place of regular parmesan cheese for a dairy-free alternative without compromising flavor.

How This Soup Fits Into Different Occasions

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a fantastic choice for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or serving guests at a special event, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish. Let’s break down some great opportunities to make and serve this soup:

1. Weeknight Dinner

• This soup is easy enough for a weeknight meal, especially when you’re craving something hearty but don’t want to spend too long in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder, and you can have the soup ready in about an hour (including prep time). Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a simple but satisfying meal.

2. Hosting Family or Friends

• If you’re hosting a casual dinner or a gathering, this soup is a great option. It’s easy to make in large quantities, and it’s a comforting dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. You can even set up a topping bar with extra parmesan, red pepper flakes, and fresh herbs for guests to customize their bowls.

3. Cozy Sunday Lunch

• On a cold day, this soup makes a cozy and filling lunch option. Serve it with a warm loaf of bread, and you’ve got a meal that will bring the whole family to the table. You can make the soup in advance and reheat it gently before serving.

4. Game Day or Tailgating

• Whether you’re at home or tailgating, this soup is a perfect comfort food option for game day. It can be served in a slow cooker or large pot, keeping it warm and ready for guests to ladle into their bowls as they enjoy the game. Add some crusty bread for dunking, and it’s a perfect pairing for the excitement of the game.

5. Special Occasions or Holidays

• This soup also fits well into more formal occasions or holiday gatherings, especially in cooler months. It can be served as a starter or as part of a multi-course meal. The creamy richness makes it feel indulgent enough for a special meal, yet it’s still easy to prepare.

Dietary Modifications and Considerations

If you or your guests have specific dietary restrictions or preferences, this soup can be easily adjusted:

• Low-Carb/Keto Version: To make the soup keto-friendly, you can omit the pasta altogether or substitute with a low-carb option like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You may also want to use full-fat cream to keep the soup rich and satisfying.
• Gluten-Free Version: For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free pasta, or opt for a vegetable-based pasta like zucchini noodles. Ensure that the broth and any other packaged ingredients (like the sausage) are certified gluten-free.
• Paleo Version: To make this soup paleo-friendly, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese entirely. You can also use a paleo-friendly sausage that doesn’t contain any fillers or preservatives.
• Vegetarian or Vegan: As mentioned earlier, you can easily make this soup vegetarian or vegan by swapping out the sausage for plant-based alternatives, using coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and choosing a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is truly a dish that can be customized and adapted to suit different tastes, occasions, and dietary needs. Its rich, creamy base combined with savory sausage, tender pasta, and aromatic vegetables makes it a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

With the flexibility to adjust ingredients based on what you have available, this soup can easily become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family, preparing for a dinner party, or looking for a dish that can be made ahead and frozen for later, this recipe has you covered.

The next time you crave something hearty, satisfying, and full of flavor, reach for this recipe. It’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen, one bowl at a time. Enjoy every spoonful and share the comfort with those around you!

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a deliciously creamy base, savory sausage, and tender pasta in every spoonful. With its rich flavors and versatility, it’s perfect for cozy weeknights or serving at gatherings. Whether you’re making it for yourself or a crowd, this soup is bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

By following the steps and tips provided, you’ll create a soup that’s as hearty as it is flavorful. Enjoy it on a cold day with loved ones, and feel free to make adjustments based on your preferences. Bon appétit!

Yield: 6-8

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Recipe

Print

This rich and flavorful soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy parmesan base that’s perfectly comforting for a chilly day. Ditalini, a small, tube-shaped pasta, adds texture and absorbs the soup's flavor in every bite. The combination of aromatic vegetables, garlic, and a luscious creamy broth makes this soup a family favorite. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish will impress every time.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
• Once the sausage is cooked, remove any excess grease, and set the sausage aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
• Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Simmer the Soup:

• Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
• Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Add Pasta and Cream:

• Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to keep the soup at your desired consistency.
• Lower the heat and add the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir well to combine.
• Add the Parmesan cheese, basil, and thyme, and continue to stir until the cheese has melted into the soup, making it creamy and smooth.

5. Final Seasoning:

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
• If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth or milk to thin it out.

6. Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

• Pasta Choices:
  While ditalini pasta is traditional in this soup, you can use any small pasta shape like orzo, small shells, or elbow macaroni. The key is to use a pasta that holds up well and absorbs the soup's rich broth.
  
• Smokier Flavor:
  If you prefer a smoky depth in the soup, you can swap out the regular Italian sausage for smoked sausage or even chorizo for a twist. This will add a layer of flavor that complements the creamy base.
  
• Make-Ahead:
  This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors actually improve over time, making it even better the next day.
  If you plan to freeze it, you can freeze the soup (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. When reheating, add fresh pasta or cook the pasta separately to avoid it getting too mushy in the frozen soup.
  
• Dairy-Free Option:
  For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream or cashew cream in place of the heavy cream, and use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free parmesan to maintain the cheesy flavor.
  
• Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition:
  You can easily add more vegetables to the soup for extra nutrition. Consider adding spinach, kale, or green beans during the last few minutes of cooking. This will not only add more vitamins but also enhance the texture and flavor of the soup.
  
• Salt Considerations:
  Be cautious with adding salt, especially if you’re using canned broth or sausage, as they tend to be salty. Taste the soup before adding extra salt and adjust as needed.
  
• Adjusting Thickness:
  If the soup thickens too much after adding the pasta, feel free to add additional broth or water to adjust the consistency. You can also add more cream for extra richness.
  
• Serving Suggestions:
  Serve this soup with a side of garlic bread, crusty baguette, or a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. A fresh side of roasted vegetables like brussels sprouts or carrots also pairs nicely.