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Our Cherished Velvety Sausage Stew
This warm Italian sausage stew with pasta and cheese has rescued countless hectic evenings at our house. The smooth broth packed with pasta, tomatoes, and Italian sausage takes just 25 minutes to make but tastes like it's been bubbling away forever. My children actually jump for joy when they catch a whiff of it cooking. There's nothing better than snuggling up with a steaming bowl, especially during those cold nights when we're craving something hearty. I'm so happy with how rich and satisfying it turns out without spending hours in the kitchen.
True Soul-Warming Wonder
This dish was born on a frosty evening when I wanted something hot and smooth but couldn't face a trip to the store. It's now turned into our go-to comfort dish. I'm always amazed at how the cream cheese dissolves into the savory broth while the sausage brings such incredible taste to every spoonful. And the cleanup's a breeze since everything cooks in just one pot.
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Ingredients List
- Ditalini Pasta: These small tubes look so adorable when cooked
- Optional: Some fresh herbs for garnish
- Parmesan Cheese: Go for freshly grated not the bottled stuff
- Cream Cheese: Get the full fat kind for the smoothest results
- Petite Diced Tomatoes: A single can creates the perfect balance with the creaminess
- Chicken Broth: Forms the foundation of all that flavor
- Garlic: Using freshly minced really matters here
- Onion: Dice up half a large one into small pieces
- Italian Sausage: Pick spicy or mild depending on what your family likes
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of sausage should I choose?
Pick either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. Use ground sausage for convenience, or remove the casing from links if that's all you have.
- → Can I prep this soup early?
You can make it ahead, but pasta will soak up liquid over time. Add extra broth while reheating to get the right texture again.
- → What works instead of ditalini pasta?
Small shapes like elbow macaroni, orzo, or mini shells are perfect alternatives. Adjust the cooking time to keep the pasta al dente.
- → How can I stop the cream cheese from curdling?
Ensure the cream cheese is softened first and cut into small cubes. Always stir it in slowly on medium heat, avoiding high heat.
- → Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Soups with cream might split after freezing. If you want to freeze it, skip the cream cheese and stir it in fresh when reheating.