BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

This BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a heartwarming dish that captures the essence of Italian comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender ditalini pasta in a rich tomato broth. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience your loved ones will cherish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Satisfying Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and spices creates a rich, hearty flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple Preparation: With just one pot required, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to all ages, ensuring everyone around the table enjoys a comforting bowl of goodness.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful soup, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help streamline the process. Having these on hand ensures smooth cooking and delicious results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups, it allows for even cooking and ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up the sausage evenly.

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: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon until 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 pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Broth Base

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

Step 4: Add Ditalini Pasta

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

Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese

Return cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

This BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

How to Serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this hearty dish.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
• Garlic Bread – This buttery, garlic-infused bread adds a flavorful twist to each bite of soup.

Topped with Extra Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added freshness and color.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese – Add a sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving for an extra cheesy finish.

With a Salad

• Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

How to Perfect BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

To achieve the ultimate flavor in your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste and aroma of the soup.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente – For optimal texture, ensure that ditalini pasta is cooked al dente so it doesn’t become mushy in the soup.
• Let it Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen flavors; just be cautious not to overcook the pasta.
• Experiment with Broth – Try using homemade chicken broth for richer flavors compared to store-bought options.
• Garnish Generously – Don’t skimp on garnishes like parsley or cheese; they add visual appeal and enhance taste.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth and nutrition to your meal.
4. Antipasto Platter – A selection of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs make for an excellent appetizer alongside your main dish.
6. Polenta Cakes – Creamy polenta cakes provide a comforting side that pairs well with the hearty soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Under-seasoning the soup: It’s important to taste your soup before serving. Add salt and pepper gradually to enhance the flavors.
• Overcooking the pasta: Ditalini pasta cooks quickly. Follow package instructions closely to prevent mushy pasta in your soup.
• Skipping aromatics: Aromatics like onion and garlic add depth of flavor. Don’t skip these ingredients; they are essential for a rich taste.
• Not using enough broth: For a hearty soup, ensure you have enough chicken broth. Adjust according to your desired consistency.
• Skipping the garnish: Fresh parsley and extra cheese elevate the dish. Always finish with a sprinkle for added freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• You can freeze this soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It’s best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup:

Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for Italian sausage. It will still deliver satisfying flavors when seasoned well.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, use plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables for texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

How long does it take to make this soup?

The total time for making BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is approximately 45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices according to your taste. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s perfect for any night of the week!

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BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

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• Author: Aileen
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 bowls 1x

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Description

Discover the comforting warmth of BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a delightful one-pot meal that brings families together around the dinner table. This rich and savory soup features tender pieces of flavorful sausage, al dente ditalini pasta, and a hearty tomato broth that is both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this recipe invites customization—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. With minimal cleanup required, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!

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Ingredients

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• 1 pound chicken sausage, removed from casings
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, bringing it to a simmer.
4. Add ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions until tender.
5. Return cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 19g
• Cholesterol: 55mg