Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup: Rich, Hearty & Comforting One-Pot Wonder
Introduction
Warm up with a bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, the ultimate comfort food that’s rich, savory, and satisfying. Packed with Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy Parmesan broth, this easy one-pot soup is perfect for chilly evenings or quick weeknight dinners. Ideal for search terms like “creamy sausage soup,” “easy Italian soups,” or “one-pot pasta soup recipes.”
Origin and Cultural Significance
This dish draws inspiration from Italian-American comfort cuisine, blending classic pasta and sausage with a creamy twist. Ditalini, a short tubular pasta, has long been used in soups like pasta e fagioli and minestrone. Combining it with Italian sausage and a Parmesan cream base creates a rustic yet indulgent meal that evokes old-world flavors with modern-day convenience.
Ingredients
– 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
– 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked ditalini pasta
– ½ cup heavy cream
– 1 cup milk (2% or whole preferred)
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for garnish
Optional Additions
– Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version
– Add a can of white beans for extra fiber
– Swap ditalini for orzo or small shells
– Stir in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist
– Use plant-based cream and cheese for a dairy-free version
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Add Broth and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook uncovered until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, milk, and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and creamy.
- Add Greens: Fold in spinach or kale and simmer for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Taste and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 6 Servings)
Calories: ~460
Protein: ~20g
Fat: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~32g
Fiber: ~3g
Sugar: ~5g
Sodium: ~780mg
Cholesterol: ~75mg
Healthy Information & Benefits
– High in protein from sausage and Parmesan
– Includes leafy greens and aromatic vegetables
– Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta
– Swap in low-fat milk and sausage for a lighter version
– Bone broth or homemade stock boosts gut health and minerals
Tips for Success
– Grate fresh Parmesan for best melting and flavor
– Stir pasta often to prevent sticking
– Add greens at the end to retain color and nutrients
– Make ahead, but cook pasta separately if freezing to avoid sogginess
Conclusion
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is everything you crave in a comforting bowl—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s an ideal dish to satisfy a hungry family, warm your soul on a cold day, or impress guests with a rustic Italian meal.
Recommendation
Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic toast. Add a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced dinner. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This soup combines cozy indulgence with wholesome ingredients. By incorporating fresh vegetables, lean protein, and calcium-rich cheese, you’re enjoying comfort food that supports your body and tastes like a hug in a bowl. It’s proof that you don’t need to sacrifice flavor for nourishment.