1️⃣ Sauté the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

2️⃣ Cook the aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

3️⃣ Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper.

4️⃣ Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

5️⃣ Cook the pasta: Add ditalini pasta to the pot and cook according to package directions, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.

6️⃣ Make it creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and becomes creamy.

7️⃣ Add spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.

8️⃣ Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.