If you’re craving something warm, hearty, and full of rich flavor, this Cozy Ditalini Soup with Italian Sausage and Creamy Parmesan is exactly what you need. With savory sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, creamy broth loaded with Parmesan, this is the kind of comforting bowl that makes cold nights feel a little more inviting. The first time I made this soup, it was one of those “what can I do with what I’ve got” dinners, and let me tell you—it turned into one of my favorite meals. Ditalini pasta is perfect for soups because it holds onto all that rich, flavorful broth without overwhelming the dish. And when you stir in that final touch of cream and Parmesan? It becomes irresistible. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and made with pantry staples that come together in under an hour. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t want to spend all night in the kitchen. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Let’s get started with the ingredients and the first few steps to make this delicious, cozy soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound beef sausage, casing removed
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue to sauté until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess grease, you can drain it before moving to the next step.

 

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.

 

Step 3: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth, water, and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste.

 

Finishing Your Cozy Ditalini Soup with Italian Sausage and Creamy Parmesan

Now that the flavorful base is simmering away, it’s time to bring the rest of the soup together. This is the part where the magic really happens—ditalini pasta soaks up all that savory broth, and the creamy Parmesan finish transforms it into the ultimate cozy meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping for a comforting week of lunches, this recipe delivers big on flavor with just a few simple steps.

Step 4: Simmer and Add Pasta

Once you’ve added the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors begin to meld. Now add the ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The pasta will absorb some of the broth, giving the soup its signature heartiness.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Parmesan

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep the soup over medium-low heat and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until everything is heated through and the soup is thickened slightly. The Parmesan will melt into the broth, giving it that rich, velvety texture that makes this soup so satisfying.

 

Step 6: Add the Spinach

Add the chopped spinach to the pot and stir it in gently. Cook for just 1–2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted but still vibrant green. This adds a pop of color and a dose of freshness that balances the richness of the cream and sausage.

 

Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Give the soup a final taste and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed. Depending on your sausage and Parmesan, you may not need much additional salt.

Tips and Variations to Make It Your Own:

• Swap the sausage: Try Italian chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add white beans or sautéed mushrooms for extra heartiness.
• Use kale instead of spinach: Kale holds up well in soup and adds a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Add carrots or celery: For extra veggies, sauté some diced carrots and celery along with the onion and garlic.
• Make it spicier: Increase the red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for more heat.

 

Cozy Ditalini Soup with Italian Sausage and Creamy Parmesan: FAQ and Final Thoughts

Your pot of Cozy Ditalini Soup with Italian Sausage and Creamy Parmesan is ready, and now all that’s left to do is ladle it into bowls and enjoy. But before you dive in, let’s cover a few frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of this recipe—plus some final thoughts on why this soup is one you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Just keep in mind that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

Can I freeze this soup?

You can, but with one caveat: the texture of the pasta can become a bit soft after freezing. If you plan to freeze it, consider making the soup without the pasta and adding freshly cooked ditalini when you reheat it. Freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

What kind of sausage works best?

This recipe calls for beef sausage, but you can use pork, turkey, or chicken sausage depending on your preferences. Mild, spicy, or even sweet Italian sausage all work well—just choose one that fits your taste.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes. While ditalini is perfect because of its small size and ability to soak up broth, you can also use small shells, elbow macaroni, or orzo. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

How do I make it dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.

Can I add protein or more vegetables?

Absolutely. Stir in white beans, chickpeas, or even diced zucchini or carrots for added nutrients and texture. This soup is incredibly adaptable to whatever you have on hand.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Cozy Ditalini Soup

There’s a reason why this Cozy Ditalini Soup with Italian Sausage and Creamy Parmesan has become a go-to favorite. It brings together all the comfort of a creamy, hearty pasta dish with the ease and warmth of a soup. The flavorful sausage, tender pasta, rich Parmesan broth, and vibrant spinach make every spoonful satisfying and balanced. This is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests, especially when paired with crusty bread or a simple salad. So next time you’re in the mood for something cozy, hearty, and full of flavor, give this recipe a try. And don’t forget to save it—it’s the kind of dish you’ll be coming back to all season long. Enjoy! Print