Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

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by Alexia

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Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup, a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy texture that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make soup features tender vegetables, flavorful sausage, and al dente ditalini pasta, all simmered in a rich broth. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s a dish that brings family together and warms you from the inside out. With just under an hour to prepare, this recipe is customizable to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving it for later, this soup is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting Flavor: The combination of turkey sausage and fresh vegetables creates a rich, savory taste that warms the soul.
  • Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 50 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
  • Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives this soup a luscious mouthfeel that makes each bite delightful.
  • Family-Friendly Dish: This soup appeals to all ages, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools help streamline the process and ensure everything comes together beautifully.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot: A sturdy pot allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all ingredients to blend harmoniously.
  • Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of flavors as they cook together.
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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

  • 1 pound turkey sausage (or plant-based sausage)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Broth

  • 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth

For the Creaminess

  • 1 cup ditalini pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

How to Make Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Stir in onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Herbs

Add oregano and basil; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Incorporate diced tomatoes with juice, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Return the sausage to the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until al dente.

Step 7: Add Cream and Spinach

Stir in heavy cream and chopped spinach; cook until spinach wilts (3-4 minutes).

Step 8: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper; serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Enjoy this comforting Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup with family or save it for future meals!

How to Serve Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavor and presentation, making your meal even more enjoyable.

Classic Bread Pairing

  • Crusty Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
  • Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory touch and pairs well with the rich flavors.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan brings a delightful saltiness and enhances the overall taste.
  • Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a burst of freshness.

Side Salads

  • Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing complement the soup’s texture beautifully.
  • Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

How to Perfect Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Perfecting your Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup can elevate your cooking game. Here are some tips to ensure your soup is delicious every time.

  • Bold Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust spices according to your taste. More oregano or basil can enhance the Italian flavor profile.
  • Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for maximum flavor.
  • Customize Pasta Cooking Time: For perfectly al dente pasta, check for doneness a minute or two before the package directions suggest.
  • Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 30 minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together.
  • Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor without altering the recipe too much.

Best Side Dishes for Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that pair well with this comforting soup.

  1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic offers a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
  2. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides crunch and balances out the soup’s richness.
  3. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty side dish that complements the flavors of the soup.
  4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add depth to your meal while being easy to prepare alongside the soup.
  5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
  6. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread adds an inviting touch of sweetness that pairs well with savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the turkey sausage can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always brown your meat first to enhance the soup’s overall taste.
  • Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the vegetables too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they’re tender for the best texture.
  • Not seasoning adequately: A bland soup is disappointing. Always taste and adjust the seasonings as you go, especially salt and pepper.
  • Ignoring pasta cooking time: Overcooking ditalini pasta can result in a mushy texture. Follow package instructions closely for perfect pasta.
  • Rushing the flavors: Giving the soup time to simmer helps develop its richness. Let it sit for at least 20-30 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • It will keep well for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

  • To freeze, use a freezer-safe container or bag.
  • The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals until hot.
  • Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup.

Can I use plant-based sausage instead of turkey sausage?

Yes, using plant-based sausage is a great alternative that will still provide excellent flavor and texture.

How can I customize my Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as flavors meld together beautifully.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or cream alternatives based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup


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  • Author: Alexia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

Description

Hearty and Creamy Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich flavors and a creamy texture that warms you from the inside out. This delightful soup features tender vegetables, turkey sausage, and al dente ditalini pasta simmered in a flavorful broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, it’s customizable to suit your taste preferences and takes less than an hour to prepare. Whether enjoyed fresh or saved for later, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound turkey sausage (or plant-based sausage)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup ditalini pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add turkey sausage and brown.
  2. Stir in onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add oregano and basil; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Incorporate diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Return the sausage to the pot and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  6. Add ditalini pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes until al dente.
  7. Stir in heavy cream and spinach; cook until spinach wilts (3-4 minutes).
  8. Season with salt and pepper; serve hot.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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