BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

This BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is everything you need for a warm and fulfilling meal. It’s an easy one-pot dish that combines savory Italian sausage with ditalini pasta in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this soup is not only flavorful but also satisfying and simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, this soup comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The blend of herbs and the creamy texture create a deliciously comforting dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or varying the spices according to your taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this one-pot meal, allowing you more time to relax after dinner.
• Family Friendly: With its hearty ingredients, this soup is sure to please both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly and allows for simmering without overflowing.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient quantities, leading to consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

For the Broth and Pasta

• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta

For Creaminess and Garnish

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Cook while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the chicken broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta into the pot. Cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until tender.

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Return the cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your cozy bowl of BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!

How to Serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some creative suggestions to elevate this comforting dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping and soaking up the broth.

Offer Additional Cheese

• Provide extra grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who love a cheesy finish.

Serve with a Simple Salad

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Use Bowls with Fun Designs

• Present the soup in colorful or uniquely shaped bowls to make the meal visually appealing.

Add a Dash of Hot Sauce

• For those who enjoy spice, offer hot sauce on the side to add an extra kick.

How to Perfect BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Perfecting your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure success every time you make it.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you cook and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – Follow package instructions carefully, cooking ditalini until just tender to avoid mushiness.
• Let It Simmer – Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just ensure not to overcook the pasta.
• Store Properly – If making ahead, store leftover soup without pasta; add pasta when reheating to maintain texture.
• Experiment with Vegetables – Feel free to toss in other vegetables like spinach or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing sides with your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this hearty soup.

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter makes for perfect dipping.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing adds crunch and freshness.
3. Bruschetta – Topped with tomatoes and basil, this appetizer is light yet flavorful.
4. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing bite.
5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth to your meal.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Soft biscuits filled with cheese pair wonderfully with the creamy soup.
7. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses makes for an enticing side.
8. Spinach Artichoke Dip – Creamy dip served warm is perfect with tortilla chips or pita bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be easy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Flavoring: Using too little seasoning can lead to bland soup. Always taste your broth and adjust seasonings progressively to enhance flavors.
• Bold Overcooking Pasta: Cooking the ditalini pasta for too long can result in mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely and consider undercooking slightly, as it will continue cooking in the soup.
• Bold Skipping the Browning: Not browning the sausage adds less depth of flavor. Take time to brown it well, as this step adds a rich taste to your soup.
• Bold Ignoring Broth Quality: Low-quality broth can affect the overall taste. Opt for a good quality chicken broth or homemade version for better results.
• Bold Adding Cream Too Early: Incorporating heavy cream too soon can lead to curdling. Stir it in at the end of cooking for a smooth, creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• The BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label containers with the date for tracking.

Reheating BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes or until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.

What makes this the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

The combination of savory sausage, fresh herbs, and creamy broth creates a warm and satisfying dish that is both hearty and flavorful.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of ditalini?

Yes! You can substitute ditalini with other small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or mini shells if you prefer.

How do I customize the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition. You can also adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute regular ditalini pasta with gluten-free pasta alternatives available at most grocery stores.

How do I serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Topping each bowl with extra Parmesan cheese enhances flavor even more!

Final Thoughts

The BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only comforting but also highly versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for chilly evenings and quick dinners alike. Don’t hesitate to try different vegetables or seasonings based on what you have on hand!