Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup


  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

A rich and creamy Italian-inspired soup featuring crumbled Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, and a velvety Parmesan-infused broth. This hearty comfort dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying family meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 ½ cups ditalini pasta
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the Italian Sausage
    • In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess grease if necessary.
    • Add diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  • Simmer the Broth
    • Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
    • Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  • Cook the Pasta
    • Stir in ditalini pasta and cook directly in the soup for 8-10 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally.
  • Add the Cream and Cheese
    • Lower heat and slowly pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine.
    • Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously to melt and blend it into the broth.
  • Finish with Spinach (Optional)
    • If using, stir in chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  • Serve and Garnish
    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.
    • Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

  • Substitutions: Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based sausage. Use different small pasta shapes if ditalini is unavailable.
  • Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and reduce Parmesan for a less rich version.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze without cream and cheese for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding broth or cream as needed. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Keywords: Comfort food, High-protein, Can be made gluten-free (with GF pasta)