This comforting Italian-inspired soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a rich, creamy Parmesan-infused broth. It’s packed with vegetables, seasoned with herbs, and finished with fresh spinach for a cozy, hearty meal.
Author:Stephanie
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:4-6 servings 1x
Category:Soup, Dinner
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-American
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup ditalini pasta
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried oregano and basil. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Cook the Pasta:
Once the broth is boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions or until the pasta is al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan, allowing them to melt into the broth for a creamy texture
Add Spinach and Sausage:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
Freezing: Freeze the soup base without the cream and Parmesan. Add these after reheating for a smoother texture.
Customizations: Substitute spinach with kale or add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.