There’s something irresistibly comforting about a hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with rich flavors and creamy textures. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup offers all that and more. This soup combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage, the creamy richness of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, and the satisfying bite of ditalini pasta. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly day or looking for something delicious to serve your family, this soup is a must-try. Here’s how you can make it at home.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
This soup is the perfect blend of hearty and creamy, making it a great choice for anyone who loves comforting flavors. The Italian sausage infuses the broth with rich, savory undertones, while the Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the creaminess. The spinach gives a fresh, green element, and the ditalini pasta ensures every spoonful is satisfying. If you’re looking for a meal that combines ease and flavor, this recipe delivers on both fronts.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
To make this comforting soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, hearty dish. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials:
Ingredients List:
- 1 lb Italian sausage: You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your preference. The sausage gives the soup a robust, savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the sausage and aromatics.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings an aromatic richness to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing a savory liquid for all the ingredients to meld together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the soup wonderfully creamy and indulgent.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Adds a slight tang and sweetness, balancing the richness of the cream.
- 1 cup ditalini pasta: Small, tube-shaped pasta that’s perfect for soaking up the soup’s flavors.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds a fresh, green element to the soup that wilts nicely into the broth.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the soup’s richness.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: For seasoning the soup to perfection.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh garnish that brightens up the soup and adds a pop of color.
- Crusty bread (optional, for serving): Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
This recipe is simple to follow and takes just a little over 30 minutes to prepare. Follow these steps to create a bowl of creamy, savory soup that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks. Brown the sausage thoroughly, ensuring it gets nicely caramelized for added flavor. Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step will help build the base flavors of the soup.
Step 3: Make the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the drained diced tomatoes and the cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to check the pasta for doneness before proceeding.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Spinach
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach has wilted and the soup becomes creamy and well-combined. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to distribute the sausage, pasta, and spinach evenly. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a burst of color and extra flavor. Serve with warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping and enjoying every last drop of the creamy soup.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Try serving it with:
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
- A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to add extra nutrients and flavor.
For a more indulgent meal, pair this soup with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the creaminess of the dish.
Nutritional Information
This soup is a rich, filling dish that provides a substantial meal. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 350-400 calories per bowl
- Protein: 20-25 grams (thanks to the sausage and Parmesan)
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams (from the pasta and tomatoes)
- Fat: 20-25 grams (from the sausage, cream, and Parmesan)
While this soup is indulgent, it’s also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying and balanced option for a cozy meal.
Why You Should Try Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the perfect comfort food that combines rich flavors with a variety of textures. The creamy broth, savory sausage, tender pasta, and wilted spinach create a harmonious balance that will warm you up on even the coldest days. It’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a special dish for guests, this soup will hit all the right notes. It’s the kind of meal that makes everyone gather around the table to enjoy great food and even better conversation.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and satisfying meal that you can enjoy year-round. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a dish that can be made on a busy weeknight or a leisurely weekend. The richness of the soup combined with the savory sausage and creamy cheese makes it a standout dish that will become a regular in your recipe rotation.