Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe air is crisp, and the leaves are turning—that’s when my heart craves a delightful hug in a bowl, and nothing warms me quite like Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. This delicious one-pot meal combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with a luscious, creamy broth and tender ditalini pasta, creating the epitome of comfort food that’s both quick and satisfying. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up a hearty soup that delights the senses and fills your home with delightful aromas. Plus, it’s a great way to gather family around the table, making it perfect for chilly evenings when everyone longs for warmth and togetherness. Ready to turn your kitchen into a place of cozy enchantment? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that promises to bring smiles all around! Why Is This Soup So Irresistible? Comforting warmth: This Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup serves as the ultimate comfort food, enveloping you in a rich and cozy embrace perfect for chilly nights. Easy preparation: With just 25 minutes to prepare, you can enjoy a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Versatile additions: Feel free to customize by incorporating your favorite veggies, or swap the sausage to suit your taste—options abound! Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, this soup captivates every palate, so bring your loved ones together around a hearty bowl! Hearty and filling: The combination of Garlic Parmesan Potato flavors and ditalini pasta creates a fulfilling dish that will leave everyone content. As your kitchen fills with tantalizing aromas, you’ll be reminded why homemade meals reign supreme! Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Ingredients For the Soup Base Italian Sausage – A robust protein that provides rich flavor; swap with ground turkey for a lighter option. Diced Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste. Minced Garlic – Essential for that aromatic Italian flavor; no substitutions needed! Italian Seasoning – A delightful blend of herbs that captures authentic Italian cuisine; fresh herbs work well too. Salt – Enhances the flavors; always adjust based on dietary preferences. Ground Black Pepper – Introduces warmth and complexity; white pepper is a subtle alternative. Chicken Broth – The broth forms the soup’s foundation; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian spin. Petite Diced Tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture; fresh tomatoes can replace it without draining. Ditalini Pasta – Provides heartiness to your soup; orzo or macaroni can be great substitutes. For the Creamy Finish Cream Cheese – The secret to a silky texture and rich taste; a cream alternative makes it lighter. Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds nuttiness and helps create that comforting flavor; Pecorino Romano can be a suitable swap. Fresh Basil – Offers a burst of freshness when serving; parsley can be used if basil is unavailable. As you gather these wonderful ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a cozy masterpiece in your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Step 1: Brown the Sausage In a large dutch oven or heavy pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease, being careful not to compromise the flavor that will build the base of your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. Step 2: Add Aromatics Lower the heat slightly and stir in the diced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Sauté this mixture for 1-2 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You’ll see the onion become translucent, which signals it’s time to enhance the aroma further with garlic. Step 3: Garlic Inclusion Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The garlic will release its delightful aroma, brightening the flavor profile of the Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. This step is crucial for that deliciously bold taste you’re aiming for. Step 4: Combine Ingredients Pour in the petite diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the ditalini pasta, ensuring that the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid. Turn up the heat to bring everything to a boil and cook for 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is al dente. This bubbling moment is where the soup comes together into a hearty delight. Step 5: Stir in Dairy Reduce the heat to medium and carefully add the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan to the pot. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes, allowing the cheeses to melt completely and create that signature creamy texture of the Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. You’ll notice the broth thickening as it becomes wonderfully rich and velvety. Step 6: Finish and Garnish Once melted and combined, remove the soup from the heat. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil for that extra touch of flavor and color. The vibrant green basil will contrast beautifully against the warm, creamy soup, making every bowl a comforting masterpiece waiting to be enjoyed. Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Variations Feel free to explore different flavors and dietary options to make this recipe your own masterpiece! Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage for an extra kick, igniting the palate with wonderful heat. Vegetarian Delight: Swap Italian sausage for a mix of mushrooms and lentils, maintaining heartiness while embracing plant-based goodness. Creamy Alternative: Replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a tangier profile, creating a lighter yet still satisfying soup. Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes for vibrant color and added nutrition, brightening the soup beautifully. Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh rosemary or thyme instead of Italian seasoning for a unique twist that enhances the aroma and taste. Different Cheese: Switch out grated Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor that still delivers that cheesy goodness. Pasta Variation: Try using orzo or elbow macaroni in place of ditalini for an interesting texture that your family will love! Heat Level: If you enjoy a little more warmth, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix, creating a warming sensation with every spoonful. These delightful variations can elevate your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, making it a versatile comfort dish you and your loved ones will cherish! And for more tasty inspirations, consider trying out Garlic Parmesan Potato or Cheesy Ranch Sausage dishes to pair perfectly with your meal. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can brown the sausage and sauté the aromatics (onion, garlic, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the ditalini pasta separately and refrigerate it, ensuring a delightful texture when heated. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the refrigerated components in a pot, add the broth and tomatoes, and heat until warmed through. Then stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan, allowing them to melt into the soup just as deliciously as if made fresh! How to Store and Freeze Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. This will keep your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup fresh, allowing you to enjoy it again. Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion as it freezes. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. This ensures even heating and maintains the creamy texture. Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout—feel free to add a splash of broth if it thickens too much! Expert Tips for Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Perfect Pasta: Cook the ditalini until just al dente; remember it continues to absorb liquid as it sits, ensuring the right texture. Cream Cheese Control: Always soften cream cheese before adding; cut it into cubes for easy melting and a smoother soup. Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference; soup flavors can change as they meld together, so taste before serving. Adjust Consistency: For a thinner soup, add extra broth; while for a thicker version, dissolve cornstarch in water and stir it in gradually. Veggie Boost: Elevate your soup by adding fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color. Storage Savvy: Leftover Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days; freeze for longer storage and enjoy later! What to Serve with Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Transform your comforting soup into a delightful meal by pairing it with these wonderful sides. Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect dipper, this bread complements the creamy texture, allowing you to savor every drop of the soup. Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich soup, balancing flavors with lightness and vitality. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted to perfection, provide earthy flavors and textures that elevate the overall meal experience. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These warm, gooey bites bring extra comfort and indulgence alongside your soup, making for a truly cozy feast. Creamy Polenta: Silky polenta creates a rich and savory side that harmonizes beautifully with the soup’s creamy notes. Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing drink will cleanse the palate and enhance the comfort food experience brilliantly. With these complementary dishes, your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup will be the star of an inviting, well-rounded meal that’s bound to please! Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe tomatoes for this soup? Absolutely! When choosing ripe tomatoes, look for ones that are firm but slightly give when pressed. They should have a vibrant color with minimal blemishes—dark spots all over could indicate overripeness. Fresh tomatoes should smell sweet and earthy at the stem end, and using them will enhance the overall flavor of your Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup. What is the best way to store leftover soup? Very! Leftover Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup should be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor. You can also place a piece of parchment paper between the lid and the soup to allow steam to escape while keeping it fresh. Can I freeze Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup? Absolutely! Freeze your soup in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave about an inch of space at the top of each container, as the soup will expand as it freezes. To thaw, simply place it in the refrigerator overnight. How can I fix a soup that’s too thick? If your soup becomes too thick after it sits, don’t worry! Gradually add a splash of chicken broth or water while stirring over medium heat. If you want to thicken it back up, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir that in gradually, allowing it to thicken without losing its creamy texture. Is this soup suitable for people with dairy allergies? Very! If you’re making this soup for someone with a dairy allergy, opt for a non-dairy cream or cream cheese alternative. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar flavor without dairy. Always check labels on pre-packaged broth and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. How long can I keep the soup in the freezer? The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months, making it a great option for meal prep. Ensure the containers are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove, and stir in a little broth if needed! Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for Cozy Nights Warm up with this Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup, a comforting one-pot meal perfect for chilly nights. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 25 minutes mins Servings: 6 cupsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 lb Italian Sausage A robust protein that provides rich flavor; swap with ground turkey for a lighter option.1 cup Diced Onion Adds sweetness and depth; shallots can be used for a milder taste.3 cloves Minced Garlic Essential for that aromatic Italian flavor; no substitutions needed!2 tsps Italian Seasoning A delightful blend of herbs that captures authentic Italian cuisine; fresh herbs work well too.1 tsp Salt Enhances the flavors; always adjust based on dietary preferences.1 tsp Ground Black Pepper Introduces warmth and complexity; white pepper is a subtle alternative.4 cups Chicken Broth The broth forms the soup's foundation; vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian spin.14.5 oz Petite Diced Tomatoes Adds acidity and texture; fresh tomatoes can replace it without draining.1 cup Ditalini Pasta Provides heartiness to your soup; orzo or macaroni can be great substitutes.For the Creamy Finish8 oz Cream Cheese The secret to a silky texture and rich taste; a cream alternative makes it lighter.1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Adds nuttiness and helps create that comforting flavor; Pecorino Romano can be a suitable swap.1 cup Fresh Basil Offers a burst of freshness when serving; parsley can be used if basil is unavailable. Equipment Dutch oven or heavy pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large dutch oven or heavy pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, using a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, for about 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease, being careful not to compromise the flavor.Lower the heat slightly and stir in the diced onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.Pour in the petite diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then add the ditalini pasta. Bring to a boil and cook for 8 minutes until the pasta is al dente.Reduce the heat and carefully add the softened cream cheese and grated Parmesan to the pot. Stir continuously for about 5 minutes until the cheeses melt completely.Once melted and combined, remove the soup from the heat. Serve hot, topped with fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesLeftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding broth if too thick. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!