Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to soothe the soul. This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining hearty Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich, creamy broth that will leave your taste buds singing. Ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is simple to prepare and packs a flavorful punch.

Ingredients

For the Soup

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil, for sautéing

Garnish

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Ingredients

4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

6. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
7. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, along with the fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.

Tips for the Best Soup

• Customize the Ingredients: Feel free to mix and match vegetables according to what you have on hand. Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini would also be delicious additions.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze for Later: You can freeze this soup in individual portions for an easy meal later. Just omit the spinach and cream before freezing, and add them in when reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not just comforting; it’s also packed with nutrients from the beans and spinach. The creamy texture combined with the savory sausage makes it a hearty dish that is sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight meal or a cozy gathering, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious.

Conclusion

Warm up this season with a bowl of Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. Its comforting flavors, creamy consistency, and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe for busy families. Enjoy the blend of Italian flavors and hearty ingredients that make this soup a must-try for your dinner rotation.

Certainly! Here are some Serving and Storage Tips for your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup:

Serving Tips

1. Accompaniments: Serve your soup with a side of crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh green salad to complement the creamy flavors. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick for those who enjoy some heat.
2. Garnishing: Enhance the presentation by garnishing each bowl with extra grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, or freshly chopped herbs like parsley or basil. These additions not only elevate the visual appeal but also add freshness to each serving.
3. Adjusting Consistency: If the soup thickens too much after sitting, you can add a little more chicken broth or cream when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Serving Size: This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Consider using larger bowls for a heartier meal or smaller ones as a starter.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
2. Freezing: If you want to store the soup for a longer period, consider freezing it. To do this, omit the heavy cream and spinach before freezing, as they can affect the texture once thawed. Instead, add these ingredients when you reheat the soup. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
3. Thawing: To thaw frozen soup, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave. Once thawed, reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Serving after Storage: When reheating, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, as flavors can mellow during storage. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup at its best, whether you’re savoring it fresh or enjoying leftovers later!

FAQ 1: Can I use a different type of sausage for this soup?

Answer: Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can substitute it with turkey sausage for a leaner option, chicken sausage for a milder flavor, or even plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly depending on your choice.

FAQ 2: Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Answer: Yes! To make a dairy-free version of this soup, you can replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative such as coconut cream, cashew cream, or almond milk. For the Parmesan cheese, consider using a dairy-free cheese substitute or nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

FAQ 3: How can I make this soup spicier?

Answer: If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions and garlic. Using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild will also amp up the spice level. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference!

FAQ 4: Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Answer: Definitely! This soup is quite versatile, so feel free to incorporate more vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them when you sauté the onions. This will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional content of your soup.

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