Introduction
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a rich, satisfying soup that brings together classic Italian flavors in a cozy, creamy broth. Featuring hearty Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan, this soup is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a bowl of savory indulgence, it’s easy to prepare and loaded with flavor.
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Origin and Cultural Significance
This soup is a modern adaptation of rustic Italian soups, traditionally known for utilizing pantry staples like pasta, cured meats, tomatoes, and herbs. Ditalini—a small, tube-shaped pasta—is commonly found in Italian soups like minestrone. The addition of cream and Parmesan gives it a creamy, American-Italian twist, making it a popular dish in contemporary kitchens across North America. It celebrates the Italian philosophy of turning humble ingredients into comforting, satisfying meals.
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Ingredients Quantity
1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (casings removed)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, drained
6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 ½ cups ditalini pasta
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
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Optional Additions
Spinach or kale (2 cups fresh) for added nutrients and color
Crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Mushrooms (1 cup sliced) for umami depth
White beans (1 can, drained) for added heartiness
Shaved Parmesan curls on top for a fancy finish
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Tips for Success
1. Brown the sausage well to develop deep flavor.
2. Cook the pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers (prevents it from getting soggy).
3. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
4. Adjust creaminess by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream if preferred.
5. Season last, as sausage and Parmesan can be salty.
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Instructions
1. Sauté the sausage: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces. Cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook aromatics: In the same pot, add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add tomatoes and broth: Stir in drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add pasta and seasonings: Stir in ditalini and Italian seasoning. Reduce to a simmer and cook until pasta is al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
5. Make it creamy: Stir in the cooked sausage, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until warmed through and creamy.
6. Finish and garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil.
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Description
This soup is luxuriously creamy, with robust flavors from the sausage and a balanced touch of acidity from the tomatoes. The ditalini adds texture, while the Parmesan cheese gives the broth a salty, nutty richness. Every spoonful delivers warmth, depth, and comfort.
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Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, assuming 6 servings):
Calories: 540
Protein: 22g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 4g
Sodium: 980mg
Calcium: 220mg
(Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients used.)
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Conclusion and Recommendation
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is an excellent choice for a cozy dinner, offering bold flavors and a rich, satisfying texture. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this soup leans toward indulgent comfort food, you can easily lighten it by using lean sausage, reduced-fat cream, or swapping in veggie broth and plant-based sausage for a healthier twist. It’s a beautiful reminder that nourishing meals can also feel luxurious and soul-warming.