Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy texture that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make soup features tender vegetables, flavorful sausage, and al dente ditalini pasta, all simmered in a rich broth. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s a dish that brings family together and warms you from the inside out. With just under an hour to prepare, this recipe is customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving it for later, this soup is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in under 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of spices and creamy broth creates a delicious flavor profile that will please everyone.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences, such as using plant-based sausage.
• Comforting: Warm up on chilly evenings with this hearty soup that offers both nourishment and satisfaction.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun shapes of ditalini pasta, making it a hit for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the necessary tools before starting the recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing ample room for all ingredients.
• Cooking spoon: Useful for stirring ingredients thoroughly to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound turkey sausage (or plant-based sausage)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Broth

• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth

For the Creaminess

• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Freshness

• 2 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Herbs

Add oregano and basil; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Incorporate diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer

Return the sausage to the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Ditalini Pasta

Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until al dente.

Step 7: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Stir in heavy cream and chopped spinach; cook until spinach wilts (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 8: Season & Serve

Season with salt and pepper; serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!

How to Serve Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish is not only satisfying on its own but can also be paired with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the Italian flavors.

With Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty artisan bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: These provide a crunchy texture that pairs nicely with the creamy soup.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for added richness.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella on top creates a deliciously gooey finish.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a crisp, tangy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens add freshness without overwhelming the palate.

How to Perfect Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

To master the art of making Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Tweak oregano and basil according to your taste; more herbs can enhance aroma.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 30 minutes lets flavors meld beautifully.
• Customize Pasta Cooking Time: Cook ditalini until al dente to maintain texture; it will continue cooking in the broth.
• Explore Cream Alternatives: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or plant-based cream alternatives to suit dietary needs.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this delicious soup.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread adds flavor and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil enhances the Italian theme.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutrition and a delightful crunch alongside the creamy soup.
5. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes for an exciting appetizer or side dish.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese adds richness that complements the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Using the Wrong Sausage: Choosing a sausage with low flavor can lead to a bland soup. Opt for quality turkey sausage or flavorful plant-based alternatives for the best taste.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking ditalini pasta for too long will make it mushy. Follow the cooking time closely, aiming for al dente texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning your broth adequately can leave your soup lacking in flavor. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving.
• Adding Cream Too Early: Incorporating heavy cream too soon can cause it to curdle. Wait until the last few minutes of cooking to add it for a smooth finish.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach will affect the soup’s freshness. Always use fresh spinach and consider adding other vegetables for variety.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just reheat before serving.

What can I add to Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I thicken Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the soup simmer longer or add additional cream or a cornstarch slurry.

Is Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free ditalini pasta and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with any favorite sausage, including chicken or pork varieties, depending on your taste preference.

Final Thoughts

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any meal occasion. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or cream options. Try this recipe today; your family will love it!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a delightful dish that warms the soul. This easy-to-make soup combines savory turkey sausage with tender vegetables and creamy ditalini pasta, all simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe can be customized to suit your preferences, whether you opt for plant-based sausage or additional veggies. In just under an hour, you’ll have a nourishing meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table. Enjoy it fresh or save leftovers for another day—this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound turkey sausage (or plant-based sausage)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the turkey sausage.
2. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in oregano and basil; cook for an additional minute.
4. Incorporate diced tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Return the sausage to the pot; let it simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10–12 minutes until al dente.
7. Stir in heavy cream and chopped spinach; cook until spinach wilts (about 3–4 minutes).
8. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 80mg