Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil for browning the sausage and adding a subtle, healthy fat base
1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or hot) provides savory protein and the main seasoning foundation for the soup
2 tablespoons unsalted butter helps sauté vegetables and adds richness to the broth
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (1–1/2 cups) serves as an aromatic base to enhance the overall flavor
3 large carrots, finely chopped (1–1/2 cups) adds sweetness and nutrition, contributing vitamins and a pleasant crunch
1 tablespoon minced garlic acts as a flavor enhancer, boosting the soup’s depth and aroma
Salt and pepper to taste essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors in your creamy Italian ditalini soup
2 tablespoons flour thickens the broth, creating a creamy texture when mixed in
8 cups chicken broth forms the liquid base, adjustable for desired consistency in this Parmesan sausage soup
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning infuses herbs for that classic Italian taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) adds optional heat, letting you customize the spice level
1–3/4 cups ditalini pasta small pasta for a fun texture that cooks quickly and holds up well in soup
1 cup finely grated refrigerated Parmesan cheese (with sandy texture) provides umami and thickness for a creamy finish
1 cup heavy cream gives a rich, creamy mouthfeel that makes this creamy ditalini and sausage soup irresistible
2 packed cups finely shredded kale adds leafy greens for nutrition and a slight bitterness to balance the richness
Crusty buttered bread (optional for serving) perfect for dipping and soaking up every last bit of the soup
Instructions
1-First Step: Mise en Place: Gather and prep all ingredients: chop 1 large yellow onion, 3 large carrots, mince 1 tablespoon garlic, grate 1 cup refrigerated Parmesan, measure 1-3/4 cups ditalini pasta and 8 cups chicken broth, and portion 1 pound Italian sausage. Preheat a large pot over medium heat and have a spoon ready. This step helps dietary adaptations, like using gluten-free pasta, stay seamless.
2-Second Step: Brown the Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the pot over high heat. Add the Italian sausage and sear for one minute on each side, then crumble and cook until browned. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving 1 tablespoon of grease, and drain excess fat. For lean options, reduce cooking time to avoid sticking.
3-Third Step: Sweat the Aromatics: Reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, the chopped onion, carrots, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, then sauté until tender, about 7 to 9 minutes. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons flour and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to build flavor in your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.
4-Fourth Step: Build the Broth: Gradually whisk in 1 cup chicken broth to make a slurry, then add the remaining 7 cups while scraping the pot. Stir in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes if desired. Bring to a boil, add ditalini pasta, and cook per package instructions minus two minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
5-Fifth Step: Finish with Cream and Cheese: Lower heat to low and stir in 1 cup heavy cream and 2 packed cups shredded kale. Return the sausage to the pot and add Parmesan gradually, about 1/4 cup at a time, until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning and add more broth if needed for the perfect consistency in this creamy ditalini and sausage soup.
6-Sixth Step: Adjust Seasoning and Texture: Taste and season with salt as needed. If the soup is too thick, thin it with extra broth; if too thin, simmer briefly. For adaptations, remember to use synonyms like Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup when sharing.
7-Seventh Step: Add Quick-Finish Ingredients: Fold in any last greens and let them wilt. For a protein boost, add back reserved items. Mention gluten-free options here to reinforce this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup’s flexibility.
8-Final Step: Serve and Garnish: Serve hot with crusty bread. For a sweet finish, try our apple crisp recipe to pair with this comforting meal.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🧀 Use refrigerated Parmesan cheese for best flavor and texture; avoid shelf-stable versions.
🥬 Substitute kale with chopped spinach added at the end for a different green.
🍝 Freeze the soup base without pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten-containing
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 693
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 1720mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 118mg