If you are craving a bowl of warmth that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, this Cozy Ditalini Soup with Creamy Parmesan and Italian Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender Italian sausage, comforting ditalini pasta, and a luscious creamy Parmesan broth that’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with Italian flavors. Whether you’re making dinner on a chilly evening or want a comforting meal to share with loved ones, this soup is truly a heartwarming classic you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is straightforward yet essential, working in harmony to create deep, comforting flavors and a perfect texture balance. From the savory Italian sausage to the creamy Parmesan, every component has a purpose that brings this soup to life.
- Italian sausage (1/2 lb): Choosing quality sausage packed with herbs adds a hearty, flavorful foundation to the soup.
- Ditalini pasta (1 cup): These small tubes hold the creamy broth beautifully and provide the perfect bite-sized pasta texture.
- Chicken broth (4 cups): A rich, savory liquid base that ties all the ingredients together warmly.
- Parmesan cheese, grated (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty depth and creamy finish that makes this soup unforgettable.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Gives the broth its silky smooth richness without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion, chopped (1): Brings subtle sweetness and aroma, softening into the broth for complexity.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Offers that unmistakable kick of warmth and savory aroma.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the soup’s Italian character perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential finishing touches that balance and highlight the flavors.
How to Make Cozy Ditalini Soup with Creamy Parmesan and Italian Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and cooking the Italian sausage until it’s beautifully browned, about five minutes. This step unlocks the sausage’s rich, savory oils and flavor that will infuse the entire soup.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them together for about three minutes until the onion softens and garlic releases its aromatic goodness, setting the stage for a depth of flavor.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This simmering step blends all those initial flavors and creates the comforting broth base you’ll love.
Step 4: Cook the Ditalini Pasta
Stir in the ditalini pasta and cook it in the simmering broth for about ten minutes or until it reaches that perfect tender bite — not too mushy, just right to soak up the creamy sauce.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Cream
Now, the magic happens. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine. The Parmesan melts into the broth, creating a rich, velvety sauce that clings lovingly to every pasta piece.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Finish by seasoning the soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to your taste. Let the soup simmer for another five minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully, then it’s ready to enjoy steaming hot.
How to Serve Cozy Ditalini Soup with Creamy Parmesan and Italian Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a fresh, herbal brightness and a splash of color that makes this cozy soup even more inviting. For extra indulgence, grated Parmesan on top never goes amiss.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette. These sides complement the richness and make for a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and garnish with a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle heat kick. Serving it in mini loafs hollowed out as edible bowls also adds an impressive wow factor for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it a great option for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
This soup freezes well. Just transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep nicely for up to two months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion when freezing.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the soup gently on the stove over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While ditalini is perfect for this soup, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work just as well to hold that creamy, flavorful broth.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian twist. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth will keep it veggie-friendly without sacrificing taste.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add pasta during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a wedge is best for flavor and melting quality. Pre-grated versions can work in a pinch but won’t achieve the same creamy texture and taste.
How can I make the soup less creamy?
Simply reduce or omit the heavy cream and add a bit more chicken broth. You’ll still have a delicious soup that’s lighter but full of flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cozy Ditalini Soup with Creamy Parmesan and Italian Sausage Recipe that makes it a beloved comfort food. Its ease, aroma, and soul-satisfying richness bring so much joy with every spoonful. I encourage you to try making this at home — once you do, it will quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen just like it is in mine.
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Cozy Ditalini Soup with Creamy Parmesan and Italian Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting and hearty Cozy Ditalini Soup featuring creamy Parmesan cheese, savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a flavorful blend of Italian seasonings simmered to perfection in chicken broth.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage, removed from casing
Pasta
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
Liquids & Dairy
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, approximately 5 minutes. Break the sausage into small pieces while cooking for even browning.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the sausage, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent, stirring occasionally.
- Add chicken broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the simmering broth and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add cream and cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, mixing well to create a creamy texture. Season the soup with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper according to taste.
- Simmer to combine flavors: Let the soup continue to simmer gently for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot: Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve immediately for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier variation, use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but the texture will be less creamy.
- If ditalini pasta is unavailable, small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells work well.
- To make this soup gluten-free, substitute ditalini pasta with a gluten-free pasta alternative.
- Leftovers refrigerate well for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop.
