Sausage Tortellini Soup

Introduction

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a flavorful broth. This soup offers the perfect blend of rich and satisfying ingredients, making it an ideal meal for chilly days, family dinners, or cozy nights in. The Italian-inspired flavors and simple preparation make it a go-to recipe when you’re craving something warm and filling.

I remember the first time I made this for a quiet evening at home, and the warmth of the soup, combined with the savory aroma, created the perfect atmosphere. The juicy sausage and chewy tortellini, soaking up all the delicious broth, come together to create a satisfying meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Whether you’re a fan of bold sausage or love the soft texture of tortellini, this soup has it all. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to make but always feels like a treat, and I guarantee it’ll quickly become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for:

• Cozy nights
• Family dinners
• Meal prep
• A comforting weeknight dinner
• Soup lovers

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Here’s why Sausage Tortellini Soup will become your go-to comfort food:

• Hearty and Filling: With sausage, tortellini, and vegetables, this soup is a complete meal that will leave you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of seasoned sausage, garlic, and Italian herbs creates a flavorful broth that infuses the entire soup.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is easy to make and takes just 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables or change the type of sausage to suit your taste preferences.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks in one pot, which means minimal cleanup—perfect for a busy day.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Sausage Tortellini Soup:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 2 cups spinach (or kale), chopped
• 1 (9 oz) package of cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Italian Sausage: The sausage provides the rich, savory base for the soup, offering a depth of flavor that complements the rest of the ingredients.
• Tortellini: Tender, stuffed pasta adds heartiness and texture to the soup, making it filling and satisfying.
• Spinach or Kale: The greens add color, nutrients, and a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the sausage and cream.
• Chicken Broth: The broth is the foundation of the soup, offering a savory liquid to cook everything in, infusing all the flavors.
• Heavy Cream: The cream adds richness and a velvety texture to the soup, creating a comforting, indulgent finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Sausage Tortellini Soup:

Cook the Sausage:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.

Build the Soup Base:

3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine.
4. Season the Soup: Add the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to mix the seasonings into the broth.
5. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, cooking for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Add the Tortellini and Greens:

6. Add the Tortellini: Stir in the tortellini and let it cook for 3-5 minutes if fresh, or according to the package instructions if frozen. The tortellini should be tender and cooked through.
7. Add the Spinach or Kale: Stir in the spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the greens have wilted and softened.

Finish the Soup:

8. Add the Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine, allowing the soup to return to a simmer. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the soup is hot and creamy.
9. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serve:

10. Serve the Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• As Part of a Meal: Pair with a simple side salad for a light and balanced dinner.
• For a Cozy Dinner: Enjoy a bowl of this soup with a glass of red wine for the ultimate cozy meal.
• For Meal Prep: Store individual portions of soup in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Additional Tips for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Here are some tips to ensure your Sausage Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly:

• Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of your sausage will greatly affect the overall taste of the soup, so opt for a high-quality Italian sausage from your butcher or local store.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Be sure to follow the package instructions for the tortellini, as overcooking it can cause it to become mushy.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a less rich base.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase the nutrition and flavor.
• Freeze for Later: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the cream if you plan on freezing, as it can separate when reheated. Add it back in when reheating.

Recipe Variations for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Here are 10 variations you can try for Sausage Tortellini Soup:

• Spicy Sausage Tortellini Soup: Use spicy Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes for a kick.
• Creamy Tomato Sausage Tortellini Soup: Add a can of crushed tomatoes and a bit of tomato paste to give the soup a rich, tomato-based flavor.
• Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup with Pesto: Stir in a tablespoon of pesto before serving for an added burst of flavor.
• Turkey Sausage Tortellini Soup: Swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter version of this soup.
• Vegetarian Sausage Tortellini Soup: Use plant-based sausage and add extra vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Zuppa Toscana-Inspired Tortellini Soup: Add chopped potatoes and bacon to create a variation inspired by Zuppa Toscana.
• Lemon Zest Tortellini Soup: Add a dash of lemon zest at the end for a fresh, citrusy twist.
• Sausage Tortellini Soup with Beans: Add white beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Gluten-Free Tortellini Soup: Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the broth is gluten-free for a gluten-free version of the soup.
• Sausage and Broccoli Tortellini Soup: Swap the spinach for broccoli or broccoli rabe for a different green option.

Freezing and Storage for Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freezing: If you want to freeze this soup, skip the cream. Freeze the soup without the cream in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add the cream afterward.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Sausage Tortellini Soup easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A sturdy pot will help you cook the sausage and combine the ingredients effectively.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Use a wooden spoon to break up the sausage as it cooks and to stir the soup.
• Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving the soup into bowls without making a mess.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of the ingredients, especially the seasonings and broth.
• Cheese Grater: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nice touch to this soup.

Frequently Asked Questions for Sausage Tortellini Soup

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Yes, you can use frozen tortellini in this recipe. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking time.
2. Can I make this soup dairy-free?
   Yes, use coconut milk or another non-dairy milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan garnish.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrition.
4. How can I make this soup spicier?
   You can use spicy sausage, add more red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, freeze the soup without the cream and add the cream when reheating for the best texture.

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Conclusion

Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and a creamy broth that’s rich in flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, whether you’re serving it on a chilly night or looking for a satisfying meal the whole family will enjoy. The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to suit your taste, making it as unique as you’d like.

From busy weeknights to special gatherings, this soup is quick, filling, and full of delicious flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy a warm bowl of comfort any time with this simple yet satisfying dish!

I’d love to see how your Sausage Tortellini Soup turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Enjoy!