Cozy Up with This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup with Parmesan and Pasta

Introduction

When the weather cools down, there’s nothing better than a big pot of warm, comforting soup—and this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is one of the coziest, creamiest, most flavor-packed bowls you’ll ever serve.

With browned Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, rich cream, and melty Parmesan stirred into a seasoned tomato and broth base, it’s a family favorite that brings the comfort of an Italian kitchen straight to your table.


Why I Love This Recipe

This soup hits that perfect trifecta of cozy, creamy, and full of flavor. It’s hearty enough to be a full meal, but not too heavy—and it only takes about 30 minutes to make.

I love how flexible it is, too. You can swap the sausage, add more veggies, or use any small pasta you have on hand. It’s a true weeknight wonder that reheats like a dream.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.

3. Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add the ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.

5. Make it Creamy

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the cheese melt fully and thicken the soup slightly.

6. Return the Sausage

Add the cooked sausage back to the pot. Stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm.


Tips for Success

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to soften slightly in the hot soup.
  • Add spinach or kale for a veggie boost near the end of cooking.
  • Mild or spicy sausage both work—pick your preference!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pair this creamy soup with:


Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
  • Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe bags or containers (leave out pasta and add fresh when reheating)
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add broth or cream if it thickens too much.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Hungry for more rich, warming recipes? Try these:


Final Thoughts

This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is everything a cozy meal should be—warm, rich, and full of layered Italian-inspired flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or a slow weekend lunch, it’s a bowlful of comfort that never disappoints.

Make it, love it, and let me know how you serve it by tagging @ChefManiac!