Parmesan Ditalini Soup with Sausage Flavor Boost
Are you ready to warm up your kitchen with a delicious bowl of Parmesan Ditalini Soup with Sausage? This hearty soup is packed with flavor and easy to make. You’ll love how the savory Italian sausage blends perfectly with fragrant herbs, tender pasta, and fresh spinach. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into the details for your next comforting meal!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Hearty: This soup is packed with flavors and ingredients that create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for chilly days.
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious in a hurry.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With fresh spinach, lean sausage, and hearty broth, this soup is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your taste by adding vegetables or changing the type of sausage used, making it versatile for any palate.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed and crumbled
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
Additional Ingredients
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, preferably with Italian herbs
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Seasonings and Garnishes
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Add 1 small diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute, stirring to keep it from burning.
4. Now, add 1 pound of crumbled Italian sausage. Cook for 6-8 minutes until it’s well browned.
Combining Ingredients
1. Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir the mixture well.
2. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then add 1 cup of ditalini pasta and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
Final Touches
1. With 2 minutes left, stir in 2 cups of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook until it wilts.
2. Season the soup with optional 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends well.
4. Serve the hot soup in bowls. Garnish with more Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Enjoy with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips & Tricks
Ingredient Adjustments
You can swap out the Italian sausage. Try using chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter taste. If you want a vegetarian option, use sliced mushrooms or lentils. Another great choice is plant-based sausage, which adds a nice flavor.
For broth, I suggest low-sodium vegetable broth. It keeps the soup rich without the meat. This change gives a nice depth while keeping it vegetarian.
Cooking Tips
To get perfect pasta texture, cook the ditalini until it is al dente. This means it should be firm but not hard. Make sure to follow the package instructions. Stir it often to prevent sticking.
When adding spinach, do this in the last two minutes of cooking. This way, it wilts just right. If you cook it too long, it can lose its bright color and flavor.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the soup hot in bowls. I love to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. This adds a nice touch and enhances the flavor.
Pair the soup with crusty bread for a complete meal. The bread adds a nice crunch and helps scoop up the soup.
For garnishing, try fresh basil leaves. They bring a pop of color and a fresh taste. You can also add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality Italian sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Opt for local produce whenever possible for the best taste.
- Customize Your Heat Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Start with a small amount and add more if desired to achieve your perfect heat level.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld together, then reheat before serving.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top adds a delightful finish.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor of your Parmesan Ditalini Soup by adding more veggies. Try carrots or celery for a nice crunch. Chop them small so they cook well. You can also mix in some bell peppers for a sweet twist.
Different cheeses can change the taste too. Instead of just Parmesan, try a mix of mozzarella or fontina. These cheeses melt well and add a creamy texture. You can even sprinkle some feta on top for a salty kick.
Spicy Alternatives
To spice things up, use spicy sausage instead of regular sausage. This will give your soup a nice heat without being too much. If you want even more heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Start small and adjust to your taste. You can always add more!
Meal Prep Options
Making this soup in one pot is easy. Just follow the steps in the recipe, and you’ll have less mess to clean. If you want to prepare it ahead of time, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before putting it in an airtight container.
When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir it often so it doesn’t stick. Enjoy a hot bowl of comfort any time!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
Store your Parmesan Ditalini Soup in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and tasty. The soup lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To thaw, place the container in the fridge overnight. For reheating, warm it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to ensure even warming. You can also microwave it, but check it frequently to avoid hot spots.
Using Leftovers
Transform leftover soup into a new dish! You can mix it into casseroles for added flavor. It also works well in pasta bakes. Just combine the soup with cooked pasta and cheese, then bake until bubbly. This adds a new twist and helps reduce food waste.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this soup gluten-free! Just swap regular ditalini pasta for gluten-free options. Look for brands made from rice or quinoa. They cook well and give a nice texture. Always check the label to ensure they are truly gluten-free.
Is it possible to prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely! You can make this soup ahead of time. Cook it completely and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove. You may need to add a splash of broth to keep it from getting too thick.
What side dishes pair well with Parmesan Ditalini Soup?
This soup pairs well with several side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
– Crusty bread for dipping
– A fresh garden salad
– Garlic bread for extra flavor
These sides complement the soup and make your meal more filling.
Can I omit the sausage?
Yes, you can omit the sausage. For a vegetarian version, try adding more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini instead. You can also use plant-based sausage for a similar taste. This keeps the soup hearty while catering to different diets.
This blog post covers a flavorful Parmesan Ditalini Soup, highlighting key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned how to sauté onions and garlic, cook Italian sausage, and mix in ditalini pasta with broth. I also shared tips for adjustments, cooking tricks, and presentation ideas. Feel free to try variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. Experimenting with ingredients makes this soup your own. Enjoy making and sharing this comforting dish with family and friend
Hearty Parmesan Ditalini Soup with Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed and crumbled
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, preferably with Italian herbs
- 1 cup ditalini pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- for garnish fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning, until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Incorporate the crumbled Italian sausage into the pot, using a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
- Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced tomatoes (including all the juice), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Once simmering, add the ditalini pasta and dried oregano. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta is al dente, which typically takes about 8-10 minutes.
- With about 2 minutes left in the cooking time, stir in the chopped spinach, continuing to cook until it has wilted into the soup.
- Season the soup with optional red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to your taste preferences.
- Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup and is thoroughly combined, adding richness to the flavor.
- Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
![For a tasty BLT pasta salad, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will use: - 8 oz fusilli pasta - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped - 1 cup cooked turkey bacon, finely chopped - 1/2 cup red onion, diced These ingredients give your salad great flavor and texture. The fusilli pasta holds dressing well. Cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Turkey bacon gives a nice crunch. Now, let’s talk about the dressing. The right seasoning makes a big difference. Here’s what you need: - 1/2 cup mayonnaise - 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and black pepper to taste This creamy dressing balances the salad. Mayonnaise and yogurt add richness. Apple cider vinegar brings a tangy touch. Garlic powder enhances the flavors, while salt and pepper season everything just right. To make your salad even better, you can add some fun toppings. Consider these options: - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Basil adds a fresh aroma and flavor. You can also use extra cherry tomatoes or some nuts for crunch. These extras can make your dish more colorful and appealing. For the full recipe, check out the details to create this delightful dish! To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt helps add flavor to the pasta. Add 8 oz of fusilli pasta to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions. You want it to be al dente, which means it should be firm but not hard. This usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander. Rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking. This step cools the pasta down and helps it not stick together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the salad ingredients. Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh spinach. Then, mix in 1 cup of finely chopped cooked turkey bacon and 1/2 cup of diced red onion. Gently stir everything together until well mixed. This will create a colorful and tasty base for your salad. Now, it’s time to make the dressing. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt, and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Then, add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder along with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until the dressing is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds richness and flavor to your salad. Pour it over the pasta mixture and carefully fold it in. Make sure every bite gets some dressing. Taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help the flavors blend nicely. You can find the full recipe at [Full Recipe]. To cook pasta just right, start with a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. The salt gives flavor to the pasta. Bring the water to a boil before adding your fusilli. Stir the pasta right away to prevent sticking. Cook it according to the package time until it's al dente, which means firm but not hard. After cooking, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This stops the cooking and cools it down for the salad. To make your salad burst with flavor, use fresh herbs. Fresh basil works great, adding a sweet and peppery taste. You can also try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat. Garlic powder gives a nice depth, but fresh garlic can add a sharper taste. Don’t forget to taste your salad as you season. This way, you can adjust the flavors to your liking. Making your salad ahead of time is smart. It allows the flavors to mix well. I suggest making it at least 30 minutes before serving. Just cover the bowl and chill it in the fridge. If you want to prep even earlier, you can cook the pasta and chop the veggies a day ahead. Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh and crunchy. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. {{image_4}} You can make simple swaps to boost nutrition. Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular. This adds fiber and keeps you full longer. Try Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. You can also add more fresh veggies, like bell peppers or cucumbers, for extra crunch and vitamins. To make this salad vegan, swap turkey bacon for tempeh or crispy chickpeas. Both options give great flavor and texture. Use vegan mayonnaise for the dressing. You can also add avocado for creaminess and healthy fats. This keeps the salad rich and satisfying without animal products. Adding ingredients can make your salad more exciting. Toss in fresh herbs like parsley or chives for brightness. You could also add nuts, like walnuts or pine nuts, for a crunchy bite. Cheese lovers can sprinkle in feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist. These additions elevate the taste and make each bite special. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide. After making your BLT pasta salad, let it cool. Transfer it to an airtight container. Cover it tightly to keep air out. This helps maintain freshness. Place it in the fridge right away. Avoid leaving it out for too long. Your pasta salad will stay fresh for about three days. After that, it may lose its flavor and texture. Check for any signs of spoilage. If it smells off or looks strange, it’s best to toss it. Freezing BLT pasta salad is not recommended. The creamy dressing can separate when thawed. The texture of pasta and veggies may change, too. If you want to save it, consider freezing the pasta and dressing separately. This way, you can enjoy fresh flavors when you reassemble it. For the full recipe, check out the details provided above. Fusilli pasta works great for this salad. Its spiral shape holds the dressing well. You can also use rotini or penne if you prefer. Both types add texture to the dish. Choose any pasta that you enjoy. Just make sure it's cooked al dente for the best bite. Yes, you can use regular bacon. It will add a rich flavor to your salad. Just cook it until crispy and chop it finely. However, turkey bacon is a lighter option. It keeps the salad healthier without losing taste. To make this salad gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options made from rice or quinoa. Always check the label to ensure it's certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without worry. Serve this salad chilled as a side dish. It pairs well with grilled meats or sandwiches. You can also enjoy it as a light main dish. For a fun twist, serve it in lettuce cups or avocado halves for added crunch. Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after chilling. You can prepare it up to a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge until ready to serve. The flavors will blend nicely, making each bite delicious. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If it seems dry, add a bit more dressing before eating. This will help refresh the flavor and texture. For the full recipe, check out the details above! This post covers all you need for making a tasty BLT pasta salad. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking, and helpful tips. You learned about variations and storage methods to keep your salad fresh. Enjoy your own twist on this dish. Whether you want to make it healthier or add more flavor, the options are yours. Now, gather your ingredients and have fun cooking!](https://joymealplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/ece4661f-932b-46ab-84ac-afef4fdb42e9-768x768.webp)
