Description
A rich and comforting Italian-inspired soup made with savory Italian sausage, tender ditalini pasta, fresh spinach, and a creamy Parmesan broth. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup ditalini pasta (uncooked)
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking apart until browned.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in uncooked ditalini pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until al dente.
Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and whole milk. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
For meal prep, cook pasta separately and add it when serving to prevent it from absorbing too much broth. Add extra broth or milk when reheating if the soup thickens. Freshly grated Parmesan provides the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes