BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

This BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart. Ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this one-pot meal combines savory sausage with tender ditalini pasta in a rich tomato broth. It’s a comforting dish that stands out for its creamy finish and hearty ingredients, making it perfect for chilly evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of Italian sausage, herbs, and creamy broth creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies every palate.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this soup thanks to its delicious ingredients and comforting texture.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

To make the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, gather your tools before you start cooking. Having everything ready will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for even cooking and simmering the soup, allowing flavors to meld perfectly.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even mixing.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer, speeding up your prep 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: Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

• Add the Italian sausage to the pot.
• Cook while breaking it up with a spoon until browned and cooked through.
• Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

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

Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes

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

Step 5: Cook Ditalini Pasta

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

Step 6: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl of this hearty BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup!

How to Serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is easy and can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch and enhance the Italian flavors.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens up the soup and adds freshness.

Incorporate Extra Toppings

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding more cheese on top creates a rich, creamy texture that complements the soup.
• Croutons: Crispy croutons provide a delightful crunch for added texture.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious dipping option.
• Focaccia: This soft, flavorful bread pairs well and soaks up the tasty broth.

How to Perfect BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor and nutrition.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Follow package instructions to cook ditalini pasta until it’s al dente, preventing it from becoming mushy in the soup.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go; this helps adjust seasoning without overpowering the dish.
• Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your soup can enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caprese Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar.
2. Garden Salad – A simple salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and vinaigrette offers a light contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and flavor; toss in olive oil and herbs before roasting.
4. Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, olives, and a tangy dressing complements the warmth of the soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide a hearty side that pairs well with soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits infused with garlic and cheese make for an irresistible addition to any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Boldly skip the browning step: Failing to brown the sausage well can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to cook until it’s nicely browned for a richer taste.
• Neglecting the aromatics: Skipping the sauté of onions and garlic diminishes the soup’s depth. Be sure to cook these ingredients until they’re fragrant and soft.
• Ignoring pasta cooking times: Adding ditalini pasta too early or cooking it too long can result in mushy pasta. Follow package directions closely for perfect texture.
• Using low-quality broth: A bland broth can ruin your soup. Choose high-quality chicken broth for a more robust flavor throughout the dish.
• Overlooking seasoning adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust salt and pepper can leave your soup flat. Always season at the end to elevate flavors.

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

• Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best consumed sooner for optimal flavor.

Reheating BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25-30 minutes until hot.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot, usually taking about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

How can I customize BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. Feel free to adjust spices according to your preference as well!

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute with turkey sausage or any other preferred sausage type if you’re looking for a different flavor profile.

What dietary adjustments can I make?

To make this soup lighter, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You could also omit cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

How should I serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

This soup is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional veggies or spices that fit your taste!