Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup on a chilly evening. The rich, savory aroma of Italian sausage mingling with garlic and herbs fills the kitchen, promising a hearty and satisfying meal.

I first made this soup on a winter night when we needed something quick but flavorful. Ever since, it’s become a family favorite for how easy and delicious it is, making even a weeknight feel like a special occasion. With minimal prep and loads of flavor, this recipe has earned a permanent spot in our meal rotation.

Get ready to discover a soup that's as simple to make as it is satisfying.

Why You'll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and easy to make.

First and foremost, it’s an incredibly quick and simple recipe. From start to finish, you can have this delicious soup on the table in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.

The flavors are unbeatable. The combination of spicy or mild Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a perfectly seasoned tomato-based broth will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Each bite is a burst of savory goodness.

It's a complete meal in one pot. Loaded with protein, carbs, and veggies like spinach and diced tomatoes, you won’t have to worry about making extra sides. It’s hearty and filling, yet not overly heavy.

This recipe is also super versatile. You can easily customize the soup based on what you have on hand or adapt it to suit your family's taste preferences.

So grab your favorite soup pot, and let's dive into this irresistible bowl of comfort.

Ingredients Notes

The ingredients in this Sausage Tortellini Soup are simple yet impactful. They come together to create layers of flavor that will warm you from the inside out.

• Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup. You can use spicy or mild sausage depending on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken or turkey sausage.
• Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini works well in this soup. The pasta pockets soak up the broth’s flavor while adding a comforting, creamy element. If you prefer meat-filled tortellini, those work too!
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes, especially those seasoned with Italian herbs, add a rich and tangy base to the soup. You could also use fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra depth of flavor.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the soup, adding a pop of color and a healthy dose of greens. If you don’t have spinach, you can use kale or Swiss chard.
• Chicken Broth: Using a good-quality broth is essential for building flavor. You could also substitute vegetable broth if you’re aiming for a lighter, vegetarian version.

You won’t need any special equipment – just a large pot, a cutting board, and a sharp knife for chopping your vegetables.

How To Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, and the entire process requires minimal effort. Here’s how you do it:

Start by browning the Italian sausage. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Remove the sausage from its casing if necessary, then add it to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, and let it brown for 5-7 minutes. The caramelization adds loads of flavor.

Next, add the aromatics. Dice an onion and mince a few cloves of garlic. Toss them into the pot with the sausage, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the soup’s base flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth and a can of diced tomatoes. Use the spoon to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes.

Add the cheese tortellini to the pot, cooking until they’re tender and cooked through, usually about 4-5 minutes. Finally, stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach, letting it wilt into the soup. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.

Serve the soup hot, with plenty of grated Parmesan and a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The total time from start to finish is under 40 minutes, and the result is pure comfort in a bowl.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? This Sausage Tortellini Soup keeps well, making it perfect for meal prep.

For refrigeration, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note that the tortellini will absorb some broth over time, so you may need to add a splash of extra broth when reheating.

If you’d like to freeze it, I recommend doing so before adding the tortellini. The pasta tends to get mushy after freezing and thawing. Store the sausage and broth base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw, bring to a boil, and add the tortellini fresh.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, adding more broth if necessary. Avoid boiling the soup, as the tortellini may overcook and become too soft.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the Sausage: Try using chorizo for a spicier twist, or opt for a vegetarian sausage if you’re meat-free. Ground turkey or chicken also work as a lighter alternative.
• Change Up the Greens: Instead of spinach, use kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a peppery kick. The greens add a healthy boost and beautiful color to the soup.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots for an extra serving of vegetables. They’ll cook beautifully in the broth.
• Use a Different Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini, small pasta shapes like orzo or mini shells can work. You’ll just need to adjust the cooking time.
• Make It Creamy: For an indulgent twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. It adds a luscious texture to the soup.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this soup is forgiving and can be tailored to your liking. Enjoy experimenting and making it uniquely yours!

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