Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup – Creamy, Cozy & Comforting

There are soups that warm you up, and then there are soups that feel like a hug in a bowl. This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is one of those unforgettable recipes. Creamy, hearty, and bursting with savory Italian flavors, it combines tender sausage, tiny ditalini pasta, and a silky Parmesan broth that makes every spoonful satisfying.

I first made this soup on a snowy evening when all I wanted was something rich, filling, and comforting. The sausage browned in olive oil filled the kitchen with irresistible aromas, while the pasta simmered gently in broth, soaking up all that flavor. When I stirred in cream and Parmesan at the end, the soup turned velvety and indulgent. My family gathered around the table, and in no time, the bowls were scraped clean.

Why You’ll Love It

• Rich & creamy: Parmesan and cream make the broth luxuriously silky.
• Hearty & filling: Sausage and pasta make it a full meal in a bowl.
• Quick comfort: Ready in about 40 minutes with simple steps.
• Customizable: Easy to lighten up or add extra veggies.
• Family favorite: Perfect for both weeknight dinners and cozy gatherings.

Time Needed

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 quarts chicken stock
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the sausage
   In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium. Add sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
2. Build the flavor base
   Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Simmer the broth
   Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken stock, oregano, and basil. Return sausage to the pot. Simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors meld.
4. Cook the pasta
   Stir in the ditalini and cook until just al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
5. Make it creamy
   Lower the heat and stir in cream and Parmesan until smooth and velvety. Taste and adjust seasoning.
6. Serve & enjoy
   Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Variations to Try

• Lighter version: Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Veggie boost: Add spinach or kale at the end for extra color and nutrients.
• Rustic style: Toss in diced potatoes or white beans for added texture.
• Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.

Tips from Chef Emma

• Toast the pasta in olive oil before cooking for a nutty flavor boost.
• Grate your Parmesan fresh—it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
• For meal prep, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent sogginess.
• Keep extra stock handy—pasta absorbs broth as it sits.

Nutrition Info per Serving

• Calories: 480
• Carbs: 22g
• Sugars: 4g
• Fat: 34g
• Protein: 22g
• Sodium: 980mg

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best?
Sweet or spicy Italian sausage both work beautifully—choose your favorite flavor profile.

Can I substitute the pasta?
Yes! Small shells, elbow macaroni, or orzo are excellent swaps for ditalini.

How do I freeze this soup?
Freeze the soup without the pasta. When ready to serve, cook fresh pasta and stir it in.

Is there a lighter option?
Use turkey sausage, reduce the cream, and swap in half-and-half for a leaner broth.

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Just store the pasta separately and combine before serving for best texture.

Conclusion / Final Thoughts

This Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the definition of comfort food—rich, creamy, and so satisfying. Whether you’re making it on a busy weeknight or serving it to friends on a cozy weekend, it’s a recipe that brings people together. Ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with Parmesan, and savor every spoonful.

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