Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup Savory and Hearty Meal

Looking for a warm, comforting meal that packs flavor? Try my Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup! This dish combines savory Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and hearty ditalini pasta for a bowl of happiness. It’s easy to make and perfect for cozy dinners. Whether you want a family-friendly meal or something to impress friends, this soup is a winner. Let’s dive into the tasty details!

Ingredients

For a delicious Parmesan sausage ditalini soup, gather these key ingredients:

– Italian sausage: mild or spicy

– Fresh vegetables: onion, garlic, carrots, celery

– Canned ingredients: diced tomatoes

– Broth and liquid: chicken broth, filtered water

– Pasta: ditalini

– Seasonings: dried oregano, dried basil, salt and pepper

– Fresh greens: kale or spinach

– Cheese: Parmesan cheese (for cooking and serving)

– Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Each ingredient plays an important role in the flavor and texture of the soup. The Italian sausage adds a savory base. The fresh vegetables bring a nice crunch and aroma. Diced tomatoes add sweetness and acidity. Chicken broth keeps the soup rich and warm. Ditalini pasta gives the soup its hearty feel. Seasonings like oregano and basil elevate the dish. Fresh greens add nutrition and color. Finally, Parmesan cheese ties everything together with its rich and creamy taste.

Feel free to personalize this soup with your favorite ingredients, but these basics will ensure a comforting and hearty meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

Start by warming one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot. Heat it over medium until it shimmers. Add one pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want the sausage to be browned and cooked through. Once the sausage is ready, add a medium onion, diced finely, along with two cloves of minced garlic, two diced carrots, and two diced celery stalks. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, stirring often. The veggies should soften, and the onion needs to turn translucent.

Combining Ingredients

Next, mix in one can of undrained diced tomatoes, four cups of low-sodium chicken broth, and one cup of filtered water. Turn the heat up to high and bring everything to a rolling boil. This step builds a rich base for your soup.

Cooking the Pasta

Once the soup is boiling, add one cup of ditalini pasta, one teaspoon of dried oregano, and one teaspoon of dried basil. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cook according to the pasta package instructions, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. You want the pasta to be al dente, firm but not hard.

Final Steps

After the pasta is cooked, stir in one cup of chopped fresh kale. Allow the kale to wilt for about 2 to 3 minutes. This adds color and nutrition. Remove the pot from the heat and add one cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the soup, making it creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Soup

To make this soup great, start with the sausage. Choose a high-quality Italian sausage. If you like heat, go for spicy. For a milder taste, select mild sausage. The right sausage makes a big difference in flavor.

Next, enhance the soup’s flavor with spices. Dried oregano and basil add depth. You can also try pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. These spices blend well with the other ingredients.

Cooking Techniques

When cooking, ensure your vegetables are tender but not mushy. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them until they soften. This step adds a lot of flavor. Keep a close eye on them.

Stir in the cheese gradually. After you finish cooking, remove the pot from heat. Add the Parmesan cheese in small amounts. This way, it melts evenly. You want a creamy soup, not clumps of cheese.

Presentation Suggestions

Serve the soup in generous bowls. Top each bowl with extra Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

For sides, crusty bread works great. It soaks up the soup and adds a nice crunch. You can also serve a simple salad for a balanced meal.

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can switch up the proteins for this soup. Try turkey sausage for a lighter taste. If you prefer a veggie option, use veggie sausage instead. For the greens, kale is great, but you can swap it for spinach or Swiss chard. These changes keep the soup tasty and fun.

Dietary Modifications

If you’re on a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free pasta. There are many options available now. For a vegan twist, skip the sausage and cheese. Use vegetable broth and add more beans or lentils for protein. These swaps make the soup fit your needs.

Flavor Enhancements

To add more flavor, try different spices or herbs. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. You can also use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a bright taste. Don’t forget to add more vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or peas can make the soup even heartier. These options let you get creative with your soup.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Guidelines

To store leftovers, let the soup cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. Glass or plastic containers work well. Label the container with the date. This way, you know how long it has been stored. The soup stays fresh for 3 to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing the Soup

To freeze the soup, follow these steps:

1. Cool the soup completely.

2. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers.

3. Leave some space at the top. This allows for expansion when frozen.

4. Seal tightly and label with the date.

5. Freeze for up to 3 months.

To thaw, move the soup to the fridge overnight. You can also use the microwave for a quick thaw.

Reheating Tips

You can reheat the soup in two ways: microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, heat it in a bowl with a lid. Stir it every minute until hot. For stovetop, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking.

Make sure to taste the soup after reheating. Add a bit more cheese or seasoning if needed. This helps keep the flavor bright and delicious.

FAQs

How do I make Parmesan Sausage Ditalini Soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free ditalini pasta. You can also check the labels on the chicken broth to ensure it is gluten-free. If you want to skip pasta, the soup still tastes great without it. Just add more veggies for extra flavor.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. They work well and save time. Just add them when you would add the fresh vegetables. Keep in mind that frozen veggies may cook a bit faster, so stir them in and adjust cook time as needed.

What toppings can I add to enhance this soup?

You can add a few toppings to make the soup even better. Here are some ideas:

– Extra grated Parmesan cheese for richness

– Fresh parsley for a pop of color

– Croutons for crunch

– A drizzle of olive oil for flavor

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to throw it away.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance. It’s perfect for meal prep! Just cook the soup and let it cool before storing it. Reheat portions as needed during the week. Just remember to add the cheese last for the best texture.

This soup combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and pasta. You can customize it with swaps like turkey sausage or kale for greens. Proper cooking techniques ensure great texture, while storage tips help you enjoy leftovers. With these options, making delicious soup at home is so easy.

Trust yourself and experiment with flavors. Enjoy your homemade sou