This creamy Parmesan Italian sausage ditalini soup is the ultimate comfort food with rich, creamy broth, savory sausage, and tender pasta. Ready in about 35 minutes.
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
1 cup ditalini pasta (or other small pasta)
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Olive oil (for sautéing)
Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and the onions are softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir in the Italian seasoning and bring the soup to a simmer. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but still al dente.
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and fresh spinach. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and the soup is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the soup into bowls, top with extra Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Notes
Don’t overcook the pasta as it will continue cooking in the hot soup. Cook until just al dente for best texture.
For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Ground turkey or chicken sausage works as a leaner alternative to pork sausage.
The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best texture, freeze the soup base without pasta and add freshly cooked pasta after thawing.
Adjust creaminess by adding more or less cream depending on your preference.
Recipe makes approximately 9 cups total (6 servings of 1.5 cups each).