This hearty sausage tortellini soup is both warm and comforting. With tasty sausage, tender tortellini, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings!
Making this soup is a breeze! I love how I can toss everything in one pot and let it simmer. It fills the kitchen with such a delicious smell that my family can’t wait to dig in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Ground sausage adds great flavor. You can choose between mild or spicy based on your taste. For a healthier option, try turkey or chicken sausage. Veggie sausage is also a great alternative for a meat-free version.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can swap in other types like spinach or meat tortellini. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini at the store, or even diced potatoes for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk like coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Fresh Spinach: It’s packed with nutrients! If spinach is hard to find, kale or Swiss chard work well too. Just chop them up and add them in!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
Getting the best flavor involves layering your ingredients properly. Start by browning the sausage well—it adds a lot of depth to the soup.
- Make sure the onions are soft and the garlic is fragrant before adding the liquids.
- Let the broth simmer to develop the flavors. Don’t rush this step; those 10 minutes really matter.
- Finally, taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. A little more salt or pepper can make a big difference!
Delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (ground, mild or spicy according to preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty sausage tortellini soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy option for a busy weeknight dinner! In total, plan for about 35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, carefully drain it out to keep the soup from being too greasy.
2. Add Aromatics:
Now, toss in the diced onion and stir it around with the sausage. Cook until the onion is softened, around 3-4 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 more minute, just until it becomes fragrant.
3. Build the Flavor Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice included!). Stir in the Italian seasoning, adding a sprinkle of salt and black pepper to taste. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Add Tortellini and Cream:
Once the broth is ready, stir in the heavy cream and add the cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions for cooking time; it should take around 3-5 minutes to become tender and cooked through.
5. Finish with Spinach:
At the last moment, fold in the fresh spinach leaves. Let them cook for 1-2 minutes until they’re wilted. This adds not only flavor but also a lovely pop of color!
6. Adjust and Serve:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with more salt and pepper. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your cozy bowl of deliciousness!
This comforting soup is a beautifully satisfying meal that will warm you right up. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes. Just make sure to add them to the soup while it’s simmering, and they will cook up nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead, though the soup will be slightly less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or almond milk; just be mindful that the flavor might change a bit.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just add the tortellini and spinach fresh when you’re ready to serve to ensure they stay tender and vibrant!
