– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup ditalini pasta
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup baby spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil (for sautéing)
– Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Creating Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a successful cooking experience:
1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Once the sausage is cooked, add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Incorporate Pasta: Add the ditalini pasta into the pot. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
6. Stir in Cream: After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, blending it well with the broth.
7. Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the soup and create a creamy texture.
8. Add Spinach: Lastly, gently fold in the baby spinach leaves. Cook for another minute or two until the spinach is wilted.
9. Season to Taste: Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top.
By following these steps, you will create a luscious and flavorful soup that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. Each bite will be a blend of creamy, savory goodness that will make your taste buds sing!