Description
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for a cozy dinner. Made with savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich creamy broth enriched with Parmesan cheese and Italian herbs, this soup combines robust flavors with smooth, velvety texture. Enhanced with spinach and fresh parsley, it’s both nourishing and flavorful, serving 6 in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Greens
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 1/2 cup spinach, chopped (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Combine well and bring the soup back to a simmer.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering soup. Stir occasionally and cook for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender but still firm.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach, if using, and cook an additional 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half with heavy cream or whole milk for a different creamy texture.
- For a spicier variation, use Italian sausage with spicy seasoning or add red pepper flakes.
- Spinach is optional but adds a nice color and nutrition boost; kale can be used as an alternative.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, cook the pasta slightly less and let the soup sit a few minutes to thicken.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
