Rich, creamy, and loaded with bold Italian flavor, Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the kind of meal that instantly warms you up from the inside out. Savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, aromatic herbs, and a silky Parmesan-infused broth come together in one pot to create a restaurant-quality soup that’s easy enough for weeknights and comforting enough for cold days.
This soup strikes the perfect balance between hearty and creamy—filling without being heavy—and it’s guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
- Rich, creamy Parmesan broth
- Hearty Italian sausage flavor
- One-pot, easy cleanup
- Family-friendly and filling
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Italian sausage (mild or spicy) | 1 lb | Savory protein |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Sautéing |
| Onion (diced) | 1 medium | Flavor base |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Aromatics |
| Carrots (diced) | 1 cup | Natural sweetness |
| Celery (diced) | 2 stalks | Depth |
| Chicken broth | 5 cups | Soup base |
| Ditalini pasta | 1 cup | Hearty texture |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | Creaminess |
| Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) | 1½ cups | Rich flavor |
| Italian seasoning | 1½ tsp | Herbal balance |
| Red pepper flakes | Optional | Heat |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Seasoning |
| Fresh parsley or basil | Optional | Garnish |
How to Make Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
1. Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and cooked through.
If there is excess grease, drain most of it, leaving a small amount for flavor.
👉 Pro Tip: Browning the sausage well builds deep, savory flavor for the soup.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the sausage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
👉 Flavor Tip: Scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot—they add richness.
3. Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and stir well. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes so the flavors can meld.
4. Cook the Ditalini
Add the ditalini pasta directly to the simmering soup. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
👉 Tip: Stir often to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
5. Make It Creamy
Lower the heat to low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese a little at a time, stirring continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Avoid boiling—gentle heat keeps the soup creamy and prevents curdling.
👉 Cheese Tip: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest texture.
6. Finish and Serv
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.
Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast.
Tips for the Best Results
- Use high-quality Italian sausage
- Keep heat low after adding dairy
- Stir pasta frequently while cooking
- Soup thickens as it cools—add broth if needed
Variations & Substitutions
Easy Customizations
- Add spinach or kale at the end
- Use spicy sausage for extra kick
- Swap cream for half-and-half
- Add mushrooms for earthiness
Lighter Options
- Use milk instead of cream
- Reduce pasta slightly
- Increase vegetables
What to Serve With This Soup
- Crusty Italian bread
- Garlic breadsticks
- Simple green salad
- Roasted vegetables
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze without pasta or cream for best texture. Add fresh pasta and cream when reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding broth to loosen if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup be made ahead?
Yes. It tastes even better the next day, though pasta will absorb more liquid.
What if the soup gets too thick?
Simply add more broth or milk when reheating.
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes—small shapes like orzo or small shells work well.
Is this soup spicy?
Only if you use spicy sausage or red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
If you’re craving a rich, comforting soup that feels both hearty and elegant, Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the perfect choice. With bold Italian flavors, a creamy Parmesan broth, and tender pasta in every bite, this one-pot recipe delivers cozy satisfaction every single time.