Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Oh my gosh, have you heard about this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup? It’s super tasty. I just had to tell you all about it.

I love how the sausage is so flavorful. The creaminess makes me smile. It feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

I always crave more after just one spoonful. It’s so easy to fall in love with each bite. Trust me, it warms my heart every time.

So, let’s get cooking right now. You can whip it up in no time. You’re gonna be so happy you did!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The perfect balance of cream, cheese, and flavorful broth.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, pasta, and veggies for a satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps with pantry-friendly ingredients.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes and maximum flavor.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: About 50 minutes

Servings:

This recipe makes 6 servings, perfect for a family meal or meal prep.

Difficulty:

Easy—great for beginners but packed with flavors any home cook will appreciate.

Required Kitchen Tools

To make this soup, you’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking everything in one pot.
• Wooden spoon – for stirring ingredients while cooking.
• Ladle – to serve the soup.
• Sharp knife & cutting board – for prepping onions, garlic, and spinach.

Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Here’s what you’ll need (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Adds deep, savory flavor.
• Olive oil – Enhances the richness of the soup.
• Onion – A must for building flavor.
• Garlic – Brings a warm, aromatic depth to the broth.
• Chicken broth – The base of the soup.
• Heavy cream – Makes the soup extra creamy.
• Diced tomatoes (drained) – Adds a touch of acidity and depth.
• Ditalini pasta (or any small pasta) – Perfectly sized for a hearty bite.
• Fresh spinach – Adds color and nutrition.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the soup for a rich, cheesy finish.
• Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish) – Optional, but adds a fresh touch.

Variations for This Soup

• Make It Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for white beans and use veggie broth.
• Lower Calorie Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Extra Cheesy: Stir in shredded mozzarella for even more richness.
• More Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture.

How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s go step by step to create this rich and satisfying soup.

Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add olive oil, then add the Italian sausage.
3. Break the sausage apart with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the chopped onion to the same pot and cook for about 3 minutes, until softened.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

1. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (drained).
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Return the browned sausage to the pot.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

1. Stir in the ditalini pasta and reduce heat to medium.
2. Let the soup simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

1. Lower the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream.
2. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Add the Spinach

1. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Turn off the heat and let the soup sit for a couple of minutes.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

How to Serve & Store Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Now that your soup is ready, let’s talk about how to serve it and the best ways to store leftovers.

How to Serve This Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few extras to make it even more satisfying:

• Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Grated Parmesan: Add an extra sprinkle on top for a final cheesy touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you like spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer Storage

• Without Pasta: If you plan to freeze the soup, store it before adding the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Pour the soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating.

How to Serve This Soup

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a few extras to make it even more satisfying:

• Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Grated Parmesan: Add an extra sprinkle on top for a final cheesy touch.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you like spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little heat.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator Storage

• Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezer Storage

• Without Pasta: If you plan to freeze the soup, store it before adding the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Pour the soup into a freezer-safe container, leaving room for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
• If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values, may vary based on ingredients used)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	14g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	800mg

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. If freezing, leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! Small pastas like orzo, elbow macaroni, or mini shells work well.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a lighter option.

Conclusion

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting, rich, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any season. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or meal-prepping for later, it’s a hearty meal that delivers warmth and flavor in every bite.