BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

This BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this soup combines savory flavors with wholesome ingredients. With its hearty ditalini pasta and rich tomato broth, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite among many.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of Italian sausage and fragrant herbs creates a deliciously satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course or serve with crusty bread for a more filling experience.
• One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking and cleanup with this easy one-pot meal.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the creamy texture and tasty flavors of this comforting soup.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure that your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as they retain heat well and allow even cooking.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are essential for balancing flavors in your soup.

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Ingredients

To create this delicious dish, gather the following 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 Flavor

• 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: Prepare 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 Vegetables

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

Step 3: Build Your Broth

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

Step 4: Cook Ditalini Pasta

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

Step 5: Finish with Cream

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

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup. The bread absorbs the rich flavors of the broth.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. This adds an aromatic touch that complements the dish.

Accompanied by a Simple Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. It helps balance the richness of the cream and sausage.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding more grated Parmesan cheese on top right before serving creates a creamy, savory finish that enhances every bite.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the soup in individual bowls can make it feel more special. Use vibrant bowls to add a pop of color to your table setting.

How to Perfect BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

To ensure your BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end of cooking. This ensures you have the perfect balance of flavors.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To avoid mushy pasta, cook ditalini just until al dente before adding it to the soup. It will absorb some liquid while maintaining its texture.

• Let It Rest: Allowing your soup to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This keeps the soup fresh and tasty for future meals.

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 excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: Crisped slices of bread slathered with garlic butter provide a delicious accompaniment perfect for dipping.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar create a light and flavorful side that complements the hearty soup.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience.

4. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese offers a comforting side dish that pairs wonderfully with any Italian-inspired meal.

5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil makes for an excellent appetizer that kicks off your meal nicely.

6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of marinated olives, artichokes, and cheeses provides variety while balancing out the richness of the soup.

7. Spinach Salad: A simple spinach salad dressed lightly gives freshness without overpowering your main dish.

8. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked mushrooms filled with cheese or breadcrumbs offer an earthy flavor that complements your soup beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can be straightforward, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Using low-quality sausage: Poor quality sausage can lead to an unappetizing flavor. Always choose a good-quality Italian sausage for the best results.
• Not seasoning adequately: A lack of seasoning can make your soup bland. Taste and adjust salt and pepper levels throughout the cooking process to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked ditalini pasta can turn mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness a minute or two before the suggested time.
• Skipping the aromatics: Neglecting onions or garlic will result in a less flavorful broth. Always sauté these ingredients until fragrant before adding liquids.
• Ignoring freshness of herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones may lessen the soup’s vibrancy. If possible, use fresh herbs for garnishing and cooking to elevate taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan while stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken, turkey, or even beef sausage for a lighter variation while keeping similar flavors.

What can I add to make it spicier?

To increase heat, add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking.

How do I store leftover BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage alternatives and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and tastes great reheated throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The BEST Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup offers comforting warmth and rich flavors that make it a family favorite. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it as-is or add your twist, this recipe is sure to delight!