Need the perfect cozy comfort meal? Look no further than this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup. It’s rich, savory, and loaded with juicy sausage, tiny pasta, fresh herbs, and melty Parmesan—all simmered together in a velvety broth. This one-pot wonder is easy to make and guaranteed to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Ingredients
To make this comforting and creamy sausage soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
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1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
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1 tablespoon olive oil (only if sausage is lean)
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1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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5 cups chicken broth
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1 cup ditalini pasta (or any small pasta)
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¾ cup heavy cream
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¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Kitchen Tools
Simple tools make this soup a breeze:
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Large soup pot or Dutch oven
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cheese grater (for fresh Parmesan)
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Ladle
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until fully browned and crumbled. If using lean sausage, add a little olive oil. Remove excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Add onion and carrots to the pot with the sausage. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.
4. Add the Pasta
Once the soup is boiling, add the ditalini pasta. Cook according to package instructions, about 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
5. Stir in the Cream & Cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir gently until the cheese has melted and the broth is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley or basil. Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light salad.
Tips for Best Results
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and meltability.
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Don’t overcook the pasta or it will become mushy—add it just before you’re ready to finish.
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For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk.
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Make it spicy by using hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
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Double up and freeze: The base freezes well (minus the pasta and cream—add those fresh when reheating).
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a full meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with:
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Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
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A green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
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Roasted vegetables
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Grilled cheese sandwich for a nostalgic twist
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)
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Calories: 450
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Protein: 22g
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Fat: 28g
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Carbohydrates: 25g
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Fiber: 2g
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Sugar: 3g
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Sodium: 720mg
Note: Values may vary depending on the sausage and cheese brands used.
Conclusion
This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is everything you want in a cozy bowl—hearty, creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold Italian flavor. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a crowd, or just craving something warm and indulgent, this soup is a guaranteed hit.
