Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Name: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; ¼ cup pesto; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; 3 cloves minced garlic; 8 oz ditalini pasta; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Jennifer

Published:

June 7, 2025

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Crafting the perfect bowl of creamy Italian sausage soup is easier than you might think. Picture this: a cozy night, the aroma of savory goodness wafting through your home, and you have a rich, hearty soup simmering away on the stove. The combination of spices, creamy broth, and delicious Italian sausage creates a dish that’s not only satisfying but also brings warmth on chilly evenings. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or looking to impress friends at dinner, this creamy Italian sausage soup will delight your guests and be a hit at the dinner table. It’s packed with flavor, easy to whip up, and the entire family will love it!

Why This Recipe Works

Crafting a creamy Italian sausage soup involves balancing flavors and textures, creating a warm and hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. By combining savory Italian sausage with fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, this recipe guarantees a rich and comforting dish that appeals to any palate.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

This creamy Italian sausage soup is not just satisfying; it’s deeply flavorful. The creaminess of the broth coupled with the spicy notes from the sausage and the freshness of the garlic and herbs make every spoonful a delight. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a quick weeknight dinner, this soup will warm both your stomach and your heart.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 Tbsp tomato paste
¼ cup pesto
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp garlic powder
3 cloves minced garlic
8 oz ditalini pasta
6 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

Sauté the Sausage

Begin by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it until it’s browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, be sure to break up the sausage into smaller pieces. Once browned, drain any excess grease. This step ensures your soup remains rich but not overly fatty.

Build the Flavor Base

Now it’s time to build a flavor bomb! Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it until fragrant, which usually takes about 1 minute. Then, stir in the tomato paste, pesto, onion powder, garlic powder, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. This mix brings depth and complexity, making every spoonful delicious.

Bring to a Boil

Next, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Watching those bubbles form is satisfying and signals that all the flavors are melding beautifully.

Add the Pasta

Once boiling, stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta. Reduce the heat to medium, allowing it to simmer. You’ll want to let it cook until the pasta is al dente, which typically takes around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure everything cooks evenly.

Incorporate the Cream and Cheese

Now comes the best part—creaminess! Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well to incorporate everything. This addition gives your soup its signature creamy texture. Also, remember to season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.

Heat Through

Let the soup cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will warm it all the way through and help the flavors meld even more. Just make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Garnish & Serve

Finally, ladle the creamy Italian sausage soup into bowls. For that extra pop, garnish each serving with fresh basil. This not only adds color but enhances the flavor as well. Enjoy it warm, and get ready for some happy faces around the table!

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy Italian sausage soup with crusty bread or a mixed green salad for a complete meal. It also makes a delightful pairing with garlic bread for that extra touch of comfort. The texture and taste of the soup alongside these sides is nothing short of blissful.

Tips for Success

For additional flavor, try using spicy Italian sausage.
Don’t rush the simmering of the pasta; take your time for the best texture.
Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences—feel free to add more red pepper flakes for heat or extra Parmesan for even more richness.

Variations

Feel free to experiment by adding fresh vegetables like spinach or kale. This not only boosts nutrition but also adds beautiful color and texture to your soup. Alternatively, swap ditalini pasta for a gluten-free option or choose a different shape, like elbow or fusilli.

Storage Tips

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, reheat gently on the stove to bring back that cozy warmth.

Pairing Ideas

This soup pairs beautifully with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lemon slices can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving.

What can I use instead of ditalini pasta?

You can substitute any small pasta like elbow macaroni or even quinoa for a gluten-free option.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you’re craving heat, simply add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the spiciness.

Is there a vegetarian option for this soup?

You can replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.

Can I freeze this creamy Italian sausage soup?

Yes, it freezes well! Just remember to leave out the heavy cream until you reheat it to keep the best texture.

This creamy Italian sausage soup is a beautifully balanced, heartwarming dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone around the table. Indulge in the rich flavors and creamy texture for a cozy night in, and don’t hesitate to share it with loved ones!