Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

You know those recipes that instantly become a family favorite from the first spoonful? That’s the experience I had with this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup. Imagine bubbling layers of savory sausage, zesty fire-roasted tomatoes, and tender ditalini pasta—all wrapped up in a rich, cheesy broth. It’s hearty yet velvety, with just the right amount of spice to warm you up on chilly evenings. This soup is pure comfort in a bowl, ideal for quick weeknight dinners or a cozy lunch when you feel like treating yourself to something special.

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Creamy Italian Sausage Soup comes from how a handful of humble, pantry-friendly ingredients create something so deeply flavorful and satisfying. Each one has a job—whether it’s building texture, boosting aroma, or giving that signature creamy finish.

  • Olive oil: The foundation of so many great soups, olive oil gently sautés the onions and sausage for a lush flavor base.
  • Yellow onion: Brings mild sweetness and depth, making the soup savory from the first bite.
  • Ground Italian sausage: Use sweet or spicy sausage—each gives lots of flavor and richness to the soup.
  • Garlic: Just a couple of cloves make the whole pot smell Italian restaurant-worthy.
  • Red pepper flakes: A little heat goes a long way, so adjust to taste if you like it milder.
  • Italian seasoning: This classic blend brings those beloved herbs that give Creamy Italian Sausage Soup its unmistakable Mediterranean flavor.
  • Kosher salt: The essential seasoning that ties everything together.
  • Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle bite and warmth.
  • Chicken broth: Go for low sodium if you prefer more control over the saltiness.
  • Fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices): The fire-roasted variety brings a gentle smokiness while keeping the soup fresh and vibrant.
  • Ditalini pasta: Its small, tubular shape is perfect for spoonfuls, but any short pasta will work in a pinch.
  • Parmesan cheese, freshly grated: Freshly grated cheese melts in for the smoothest, deepest cheesy flavor.
  • Cream cheese, room temperature: The secret ingredient for that deliciously creamy finish without making the broth heavy.
  • Milk: Helps lighten the broth just enough to make it luscious but not overly rich.
  • Parsley, chopped (optional): A sprinkle adds fresh color and a pop of herbal flavor right at the end.

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and cook until it starts turning soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, crumble in the Italian sausage and sauté, breaking it apart with your spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and almost crispy around the edges. Don’t forget to drain off any excess grease—it keeps the final soup light and not greasy.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Now that you have a fantastic foundation, toss in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and let everything cook for just about a minute. You’ll smell those aromatics bloom, and that, my friend, means flavor city is just around the corner.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and undrained can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Give it all a good stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (they’re packed with flavor). Turn the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil—now’s when the anticipation really starts to build!

Step 4: Add Pasta and Simmer

Stir in the uncooked ditalini pasta and reduce heat to a steady simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently so the pasta doesn’t stick. You want the pasta just al dente—it’ll soak up that gorgeous broth while lending some body and thickness to the soup.

Step 5: Finish with Creaminess

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, room temperature cream cheese, and milk. Keep stirring gently until the cheeses have completely melted into the soup and it looks irresistibly creamy (usually about 2 minutes). If you love that extra pop of color and freshness, fold in the chopped parsley at the end. Taste and adjust the seasoning—you might want a pinch more salt or pepper depending on your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Creamy Italian Sausage Soup into bowls and top with extra grated Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. The result? A bowl overflowing with flavor, comfort, and undeniable Italian soul.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For that final flourish, a generous shower of freshly grated Parmesan works wonders. Try a handful of chopped parsley or even a finishing drizzle of good olive oil for added color and a pop of brightness. The creaminess also loves a little crunch, so toasty bread crumbs or a handful of crispy bacon bits can take a bowl from simple to show-stopping.

Side Dishes

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is beautifully satisfying on its own, but a side of crusty bread—whether it’s a baguette or garlic toast—transforms it into a true Italian feast. Consider serving with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness, or even with roasted veggies for extra texture and nutrition.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this soup in individual mini cocottes or deep mugs gives a cozy bistro vibe. For a party, try pouring the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls or topping with tiny mozzarella balls for a surprise. You can even swirl in a little pesto or a spoonful of ricotta just before serving for a gourmet touch that guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Creamy Italian Sausage Soup, you’re in luck! Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier. It keeps well for up to 3 days; just know the pasta will soak up a bit more broth as it sits, so it may thicken up.

Freezing

Freezing is absolutely doable with this soup, though the texture of the pasta can soften a little upon reheating. For best results, freeze the soup in individual portions without the pasta, and add freshly cooked ditalini when you reheat. Lay cooled soup flat in freezer bags or use freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or milk if it seems too thick. You can microwave individual servings as well; just keep it on medium power and stir halfway through for even heating. Avoid bringing it to a rolling boil to preserve that luxe creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Spicy, sweet, or even chicken Italian sausage will work perfectly. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust the salt and pepper to taste, as different sausages vary in seasoning.

What kind of pasta can I substitute for ditalini?

Any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni, small shells, or even orzo can step in if ditalini is unavailable. Just watch the cooking time, as some shapes may need a bit less or more time to reach that perfect bite.

Is this Creamy Italian Sausage Soup gluten-free?

Not as written, since traditional pasta contains wheat. To make it gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your broth is certified gluten-free as well.

Can I make Creamy Italian Sausage Soup dairy-free?

You can! Swap the Parmesan and cream cheese for dairy-free versions (there are several good options available), and substitute almond, oat, or soy milk for regular milk. You’ll still get a creamy texture without the dairy.

Will this soup taste spicy?

The heat is mostly from the red pepper flakes and whatever spice is in your sausage. Use mild sausage and reduce the pepper flakes for a gentler version, or amp them up if your crew loves spice!

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is on constant repeat in my kitchen—it’s such a reliable, feel-good meal that tastes like something you’d savor in your favorite trattoria. Give it a try, make it your own, and I truly hope it becomes a go-to comfort dish in your home, too. Enjoy every creamy, cozy spoonful!

Print

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup Recipe

This Creamy Italian Sausage Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, tomatoes, and creamy cheese for a satisfying meal.

  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce can) can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups uncooked ditalini pasta

For the Creamy Base:

  • 1/2 cup Parmesan, freshly grated
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion in olive oil until softened. Add the Italian sausage and brown, draining excess grease. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1 minute. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then add the pasta. Lower the heat and simmer for 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
  4. Reduce heat and stir in Parmesan, cream cheese, and milk. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes to melt the cheeses.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then mix in the parsley. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 1150mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 29g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Italian Sausage Soup, Creamy Soup, Comfort Food, Pasta Soup

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