Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Highlighted under: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Indulge in a rich and velvety bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. Perfect for chilly nights or as a comforting meal any day of the week.
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a family favorite that combines rich flavors of Italian sausage and creamy parmesan cheese. It's not just a soup; it's a hug in a bowl!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms the soul
- Savory Italian sausage adds a delicious depth of flavor
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Perfect Comfort Food
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly evening. Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not just a meal; it's an experience that wraps you in a blanket of warmth and flavor. The combination of creamy broth and savory sausage creates a rich flavor profile that is both satisfying and indulgent.
This soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed as a starter or as a main dish, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner party or simply looking for a satisfying meal after a long day, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond its delicious taste, this soup offers several nutritional benefits. Italian sausage provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese not only enhances the flavor but also contributes calcium to your diet, supporting bone health.
Moreover, the fresh parsley garnish adds a pop of color and provides vitamins A, C, and K. Overall, this soup is a well-rounded dish that combines indulgence with nutrition, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters who don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Variations and Tips
Feel free to customize this soup to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also swap out the heavy cream for a lower-fat milk or a dairy-free cream substitute if desired, while still achieving a creamy consistency.
Adding seasonal vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers can boost the nutritional value and add more texture to the soup. Remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure that the vegetables are tender but still vibrant.
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Gather all ingredients before starting the cooking process for an efficient workflow.
Instructions
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Combine Broth and Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in Cream and Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious soup!
Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, you can store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious on the second day. However, be aware that the ditalini pasta may absorb some of the broth over time, so you might want to add a splash of chicken broth when reheating.
To reheat, simply warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, heating in short intervals until warmed through. If the soup becomes too thick, just add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing this creamy soup with a crusty loaf of bread is a classic choice that elevates the meal. You can serve it alongside a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded dinner that is both hearty and healthy. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
Another delightful addition is a side of garlic breadsticks, perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. This combination not only makes for an appealing presentation but also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor and satisfaction.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute any small pasta shape, such as orzo or macaroni.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup and reheat it when ready to serve.
→ Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your sausage doesn't contain gluten.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
Indulge in a rich and velvety bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. Perfect for chilly nights or as a comforting meal any day of the week.
Created by: Anna Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Recipe Favorites
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious soup!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g