Sausage Ditalini Soup: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe

Sausage Ditalini Soup: the ultimate comfort food that warms you from the inside out! Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of savory sausage filling your kitchen, and a steaming bowl of hearty soup waiting for you. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you craving more with every spoonful.

Ditalini pasta, those adorable little thimbles, originated in Italy and are a staple in many classic Italian soups. They perfectly complement the rich, meaty flavor of the sausage, creating a delightful balance that’s both satisfying and comforting. While the exact origins of Sausage Ditalini Soup are debated, its popularity is undeniable. It’s a dish that transcends generations, often passed down through families, each with their own unique twist and secret ingredient.

What makes this soup so beloved? It’s the perfect combination of simplicity and depth. The savory sausage, tender pasta, and flavorful broth create a harmonious blend that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a truly personalized culinary experience. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, Sausage Ditalini Soup is always a winning choice. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or hot (or a mix!), casings removed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup ditalini pasta
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
• Olive oil, for cooking

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat about a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – that’s flavor gold!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. We want them to be tender but not browned. This step is crucial for building the flavor base of the soup.
3. Add the Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 30 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. The spices will bloom in the heat, releasing their aromatic oils and adding depth to the soup.

Building the Soup

1. Incorporate the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to slightly reduce and their flavors to meld with the vegetables and spices. This step helps to create a richer, more complex tomato base for the soup.
2. Add the Broth and Sausage: Pour in the chicken broth and return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir to combine. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the soup will become.

Cooking the Pasta and Finishing Touches

1. Cook the Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta to the soup. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm to the bite (al dente). Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
2. Add the Beans: Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the beans are heated through. The beans add a creamy texture and a boost of protein to the soup.
3. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and broth already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.
4. Stir in the Parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color to the soup.

Serving the Soup

1. Serve Hot: Ladle the sausage ditalini soup into bowls and serve hot.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add an extra kick.
3. Enjoy! This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder soup, omit them altogether. For a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch more red pepper flakes.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, spinach, or kale. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t become overcooked.
• Pasta: If you don’t have ditalini pasta, you can substitute another small pasta shape, such as elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo.
• Beans: Cannellini beans can be substituted with other types of beans, such as kidney beans, great northern beans, or even chickpeas.
• Broth: Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth or beef broth, depending on your preference.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
• Freezing: Sausage ditalini soup can also be frozen for longer storage. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the pasta may become slightly softer after freezing and thawing.
• Sausage Type: While Italian sausage is classic, feel free to experiment! Chorizo would add a smoky, spicy depth. Even a mild breakfast sausage could work in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a little extra flavor. Consider adding some smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of the sausage.
• Add Greens: Stir in a few handfuls of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Lemon Zest: A little bit of lemon zest added at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup.

Troubleshooting

• Soup is too thick: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Soup is too thin: If the soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it.
• Soup is bland: If the soup is bland, add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste. A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar can also brighten up the flavors.
• Pasta is overcooked: If the pasta is overcooked, it will become mushy. To prevent this, be sure to cook the pasta al dente and don’t overcook it. If you’re making the soup ahead of time, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams

This Sausage Ditalini Soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. It’s also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and sausage. I hope you enjoy it!

Conclusion:

This Sausage Ditalini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic elevated with simple techniques that make a world of difference. The rich, savory broth, the perfectly cooked ditalini pasta, and the flavorful sausage create a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. It’s the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite, requested time and time again, especially on chilly evenings. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage will add a kick, while sweet Italian sausage offers a more mellow flavor. For a vegetarian option, you could substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or even add more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale. Serving Suggestions: * Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the delicious broth. * Top with a dollop of ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. * Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. * For a heartier meal, serve alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple salad. * Consider adding a swirl of pesto just before serving for an extra layer of flavor. Variations to Explore: * Creamy Sausage Ditalini Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier texture. * Spicy Sausage Ditalini Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a fiery kick. * Vegetable-Packed Sausage Ditalini Soup: Incorporate extra vegetables like diced carrots, celery, and onions for added nutrients and flavor. * Tomato-Based Sausage Ditalini Soup: Use crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes for a smoother, more tomato-forward flavor. * Cheesy Sausage Ditalini Soup: Stir in shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese at the end for a cheesy, comforting twist. I’m so excited for you to try this Sausage Ditalini Soup recipe! It’s a dish that I’ve perfected over time, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as my family and I do. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize it to your own preferences. Cooking should be fun and enjoyable, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors until you find your perfect version. Once you’ve made it, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments in the comments section below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. So, grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a delicious and comforting bowl of Sausage Ditalini Soup. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Print