Are you ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort? This Creamy Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup combines savory Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and rich cream for a delightful experience. With simple steps and common ingredients, you can create a meal that warms your heart. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy family dinners, this soup will leave you craving more. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion
– 2 cloves garlic
– 2 carrots
– 2 celery stalks
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather your ingredients before you start. This makes cooking easier and more fun.
I like to use Italian sausage because it adds great flavor. You can choose mild or spicy, based on your taste. Chopping the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery gives the soup a nice base.
The chicken broth adds depth to the dish. It brings all the flavors together. Diced tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity. And don’t forget the ditalini pasta! It’s the perfect shape for this soup.
Heavy cream makes the soup rich and smooth. Parmesan cheese gives it a salty kick. Italian seasoning adds warmth and depth. Always taste your soup as you go, and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
Finally, fresh parsley adds color and brightness. It makes your soup look lovely when served. Enjoy the process of gathering and preparing these ingredients!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
To start, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage. Cook the sausage for 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it up. You want it fully brown. Once cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon. Set it aside for later.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes. Stir them often until they become soft. This adds great flavor to your soup.
Mixing the Broth and Pasta
Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth. Add one can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of ditalini pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually 8 to 10 minutes until it’s al dente.
Final Steps
When the pasta is ready, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the cooked sausage. Next, add 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Stir until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Choosing the right sausage: Use Italian sausage for great flavor. You can pick mild or spicy based on your taste. Spicy sausage adds a kick, while mild keeps it gentle. Either way, it gives the soup a rich base.
– Adjusting the creaminess level: Want a creamier soup? Add more heavy cream. Start with half a cup and taste. You can also mix in a bit of milk for a lighter touch. If you prefer less cream, cut back and add more broth.
Presentation Tips
– Serving suggestions: Serve the soup hot in bowls. It looks great with some extra Parmesan sprinkled on top. You can also pair it with crusty bread for dipping. This makes it a filling meal.
– Garnishing ideas: Fresh parsley adds color and flavor. Chop it finely and sprinkle it on the soup just before serving. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness and shine.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the ditalini pasta. Cook it only until al dente. If you overcook it, it becomes mushy. This will ruin the texture of your soup.
– Not seasoning properly: Don’t skip the salt and pepper. Taste the soup before serving. Adjust the seasonings until you are happy. This step is key for a tasty dish.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the pasta type in this soup. Bowtie, elbow, or even whole grain pasta work well. They all add a unique twist to your dish. If you want a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can replace the sausage. It still keeps the flavor but cuts down on fat.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding greens like spinach or kale brightens the soup. They add a pop of color and nutrients. You can mix in fresh herbs like basil or thyme for more flavor. These herbs lift the dish and make each bite special.
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, choose gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great alternatives that cook up nicely. For dairy-free choices, try coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It gives a nice taste without the dairy.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers of your creamy Parmesan sausage ditalini soup, let it cool first. Use airtight containers to keep it fresh. This soup stays good in the fridge for about three to four days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your soup, it is best to do this right after it cools. Pour the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Your creamy soup can last in the freezer for up to three months.
When it’s time to enjoy again, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to keep it creamy. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to regain the original texture.
FAQs
How do I make Creamy Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup thicker?
To thicken this soup, you have a few great options. You can add more ditalini pasta. Cooking it a bit longer will help absorb some liquid. Another way is to mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in. Finally, you can let the soup simmer longer. This will reduce the liquid and create a thicker texture.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup in advance! Cook the soup as directed, but stop before adding the heavy cream and cheese. Let it cool and store it in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, heat it up and add the cream and cheese. This keeps the soup creamy and fresh.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. A side of garlic bread is also a hit! You might enjoy a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal. These sides complement the rich flavors of the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, you can use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. You might also add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Another option is to toss in some hot sauce while cooking. Start with a little and taste as you go to find your perfect spice level.
Can I use low-fat milk instead of heavy cream?
You can use low-fat milk, but the soup will be less creamy. The texture may not be as rich. If you want to keep some creaminess, try mixing low-fat milk with a bit of cream. This will give you a nice balance without losing too much flavor or richness.
This blog post shared a simple and tasty recipe for Creamy Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup. We covered every step, from cooking the sausage to serving ideas. I also shared tips to avoid common mistakes and make the soup your own. Remember to store your leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Whether you want to enjoy a cozy meal or impress guests, this soup fits the bill. It’s easy to adapt and always satisfying. Give it a try and enjoy the warmth it brings to your table.
