π₯£πΏ Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Ditalini Soup (High-Protein Version)
Hearty, cheesy, and protein-packed β all the comforting Italian flavors in one bowl, Abrar.
π Ingredients (Serves 4β6)
-
400g lean Italian turkey or chicken sausage, sliced or crumbled
-
1 tsp olive oil
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
-
1 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
-
1 cup ditalini pasta (or high-protein pasta)
-
1 cup cauliflower florets (optional, for extra protein & bulk)
-
Β½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt
-
Β½ cup light cream cheese
-
Β½ cup grated parmesan cheese
-
1 tsp Italian seasoning
-
Β½ tsp black pepper
-
ΒΌ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
-
Optional protein boost: 1 scoop unflavored whey protein
π©βπ³ Instructions
-
Cook sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown sausage 4β5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
-
SautΓ© aromatics: In the same pot, cook onion and garlic until soft.
-
Add liquids: Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a gentle simmer.
-
Cook pasta & veggies: Add ditalini and cauliflower. Cook until pasta is tender (about 8β10 minutes).
-
Make creamy: Lower heat, stir in Greek yogurt, cream cheese, parmesan, Italian seasoning, pepper, and whey protein if using.
-
Combine sausage: Return sausage to the pot and simmer 2β3 minutes until heated through.
-
Serve hot, garnish with extra parmesan or fresh parsley.
π Nutrition (Per Serving β Approx., 6 servings)
-
Calories: ~380
-
Protein: 40β45g
-
Carbs: 20β22g
-
Fat: 15g
(Macros vary depending on sausage and pasta used.)
πͺ High-Protein Tips
-
Use extra-lean sausage or 500g sausage for 50g+ protein per serving
-
Add extra Greek yogurt or cottage cheese for creaminess and protein
-
Swap ditalini for protein-enriched pasta
π₯ Lower-Carb / Cutting Version
-
Replace pasta with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
-
Use unsweetened almond milk
-
Reduce cheese slightly
π½ Serving Ideas
-
Top with fresh basil or parsley
-
Serve with roasted vegetables
-
Add a side of high-protein garlic toast
