Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory beef sausage pairs wonderfully with the creamy base, while the ditalini pasta and fresh spinach add a satisfying heartiness and freshness. The Parmesan cheese gives the soup a rich, umami boost, making it incredibly comforting. It’s a one-pot dish that’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights or when you’re craving something warm and filling.

Ingredients

1 lb beef sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup ditalini pasta (or small pasta of choice)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Once done, remove from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their aroma.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and the cooked sausage. Add the ditalini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper to your liking.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add extra veggies: You can add carrots, celery, or zucchini to the soup for added texture and nutrients.
Make it spicier: For a kick, use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the soup.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this soup gluten-free while still keeping the comforting texture.
Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative for a less rich version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use Italian sausage instead of beef sausage?

Yes, Italian sausage (either mild or spicy) works wonderfully in this soup and will add extra flavor with its seasoning.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.

What if I don’t have ditalini pasta?

You can use any small pasta shape such as elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo if you don’t have ditalini.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When reheating, you may need to add a bit more broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage to give the soup an extra kick. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for some heat.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter version.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic bread are perfect accompaniments to this creamy soup. You could also pair it with a light pasta dish or roasted vegetables.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply swap out the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I add beans to this soup for extra protein?

Yes, adding white beans (like cannellini or great northern beans) would be a great way to increase the protein content and add some extra texture.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen spinach can be used in place of fresh spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

Creamy Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup is the epitome of comfort food with its rich broth, savory sausage, creamy texture, and satisfying pasta. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a cozy meal on a chilly day. Whether you’re craving a hearty soup for dinner or need a flavorful dish to serve on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.