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- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy) - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped - 2 celery stalks, chopped - 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred) - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs - 1 cup mini ditalini pasta - 1 cup heavy cream - 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste - Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) - Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving If you can't find Italian sausage, use ground turkey or chicken. This will still give great flavor. For a lighter option, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. If you want to avoid pasta, try using quinoa or rice. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. - Italian Sausage: Choose between mild or spicy to match your taste. The sausage adds depth and richness to the soup. - Chicken Broth: A low-sodium option helps control salt levels. Homemade broth can enhance the flavor even more. - Ditalini Pasta: This small pasta shape holds the soup's flavor well. It cooks quickly, making it perfect for this dish. - Fresh Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrients. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. - Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor. Grate it fresh for the best taste. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions to bring this dish to life. Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients. It makes the process smooth. You will need Italian sausage, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, ditalini pasta, heavy cream, spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Having everything ready helps you focus on cooking. 1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot, heat it over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it into small pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage and set it aside. 2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes. Stir often. You want the onion to be soft and translucent. 3. Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir well. Scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds flavor. Let it simmer gently. 4. Cook the pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, about 7-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 5. Finish the soup: Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, spinach, Italian seasoning, and the cooked sausage. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts. 6. Season: Add salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning to make sure all flavors blend well. 7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. This adds a nice touch and extra flavor. - Prep Time: 15 minutes - Cook Time: 15 minutes - Total Time: 30 minutes This creamy Italian sausage ditalini soup is quick to make. It’s perfect for a cozy meal. For the full recipe, check out the instructions above. - Use fresh herbs for a bright taste. They add a lot of flavor. - Sauté the onions until they are soft. This builds a nice base. - Stir the soup often to keep the pasta from sticking. - Taste as you cook. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. - Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan just before serving. This adds color. - Don’t skip the browning step for the sausage. This adds depth to the soup. - Avoid overcooking the pasta. It should be al dente for the best texture. - Don’t add too much cream at once. Stir it in slowly for a smooth finish. - Be careful with salt. The broth and sausage can already be salty. - Don’t rush the simmering. Let the flavors meld together for a richer taste. - Serve the soup in warm bowls. It keeps the soup hot longer. - Pair it with crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the soup. - Add a side salad for a balanced meal. Choose something light and fresh. - Top each bowl with extra Parmesan for added flavor. - Invite friends over for a cozy dinner. Enjoy the soup together! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. {{image_4}} When making Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, you can use various types of sausage. Each adds its own unique flavor. - Mild Italian Sausage: This is the classic choice. It gives a nice, balanced taste. - Spicy Italian Sausage: For those who love heat, this option adds a kick. - Sweet Italian Sausage: This type brings a hint of sweetness and pairs well with the cream. - Chicken or Turkey Sausage: These are lighter options that still deliver great flavor. Each sausage brings out different notes in the dish. Try them to find your favorite! You can still enjoy this soup without meat. Here are some great vegetarian swaps: - Plant-Based Sausage: Many brands now offer tasty, meat-free options. - Mushrooms: Use chopped portobello or cremini mushrooms for a hearty texture. - Lentils: These add protein and a nice bite. Cook them before adding to the soup. - Chickpeas: They bring a nutty flavor and are packed with protein. These swaps make the soup just as satisfying and delicious! Want to make your soup even better? Here are some tips: - Herbs: Fresh basil or thyme can elevate the taste. Add them just before serving. - Spices: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat without overpowering. - Citrus: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors and adds freshness. - Cheese Varieties: Try adding different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a unique twist. Each enhancement can make your soup a new experience. Enjoy experimenting! For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. To store your creamy Italian sausage ditalini soup, let it cool first. Use an airtight container for storage. It will keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date, so you remember when you made it. If you want to enjoy it later, freezing is a great option. Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir it often to ensure even warming. You can also use the microwave. Pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots. Always check that it's hot throughout before serving. If you want to freeze your soup, do so within two days of making it. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some space at the top, as liquids expand when frozen. This soup can last up to three months in the freezer. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. Avoid refreezing once it’s been thawed, to keep it safe and tasty. For the full recipe, check the section above. To add some heat, you can use spicy Italian sausage. This gives the soup a kick. Another great way is to add crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount, about 1/4 teaspoon, and mix well. Taste the soup and add more if needed. You can also include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Each of these options brings heat without changing the soup's base flavor. Yes, you can use different types of pasta! While ditalini works well, you might try elbow macaroni or small shells. Just keep in mind the cooking time may change. Check the package instructions for the right cooking time, so your pasta is perfectly tender. Avoid long pasta shapes; they don’t fit well in a soup like this. This soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or garlic bread. The bread soaks up the creamy broth and adds texture. A simple green salad is also a great choice for a fresh crunch. You can top your soup with grated Parmesan for extra flavor. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of cheesy breadsticks. These sides make the meal feel complete and satisfying. For the full recipe, check out the detailed cooking instructions above. In this post, we covered how to create a delicious soup. We explored key ingredients, offered smart substitutions, and discussed important cooking steps. I shared tips to help you avoid common mistakes and suggested serving ideas to impress your guests. We also looked at variations and storage options for your leftovers. In the end, remember, cooking is fun! Get creative and make this soup your own. Enjoy every bite and share it with those you love.

Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Warm up your evenings with a bowl of creamy Italian sausage ditalini soup! This comforting recipe blends savory Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy goodness with al dente pasta. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Elevate your dinner routine and discover this delicious soup that your family will love. Click through for the full recipe and make your mealtime special!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound Italian sausage (choose between mild or spicy based on your preference)

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped into small pieces

2 celery stalks, chopped

4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs

1 cup mini ditalini pasta

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions
 

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into bite-sized pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

    In the same pot with the drippings, add the diced onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for approximately 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and the onion becomes translucent.

      Pour in the chicken broth and add the canned diced tomatoes, including the liquid. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate those flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

        Add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, which typically takes about 7-8 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the pot.

          Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the heavy cream, fresh baby spinach, Italian seasoning, and the previously cooked sausage. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted and everything is warmed through.

            Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Take a moment to adjust the seasoning, ensuring the flavors are harmonious.

              Serve the soup hot, garnished generously with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  - Presentation Tips: Ladle the soup into rustic bowls for a homey feel, and consider serving it alongside a warm, crusty bread roll for dipping. Finish with a few extra sprigs of parsley sprinkled on top to brighten the dish and enhance its visual appeal.