This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with tender tortellini, savory sausage, and a dreamy creamy broth that makes every spoonful comforting.
I love how quick and easy this soup is to whip up! Perfect for busy nights when you want something cozy without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even add some greens for extra goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I love using Italian sausage for its flavor. You can opt for mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier version, turkey or chicken sausage works well too!
Cheese Tortellini: The star of this soup! While I use refrigerated cheese tortellini, frozen tortellini can also work great. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini available in many stores.
Heavy Cream: This adds the creamy texture we love. If you want a lighter version, half-and-half or whole milk can substitute. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or a nut milk, but keep in mind it will change the flavor a bit.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach offers a nice color and nutrition. You can easily swap it for kale or frozen spinach if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water from frozen spinach!
How Do I Properly Brown the Sausage?
Browning the sausage is key to developing flavor in this soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your pot over medium heat and add oil or butter.
- Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Don’t rush this; let it sit for a minute so it browns nicely.
- Stir occasionally until it’s fully cooked and golden, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds a lovely depth of flavor to your soup!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy sausage tortellini soup takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute, until it’s fragrant.
3. Combine the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring this mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the soup is boiling, add the refrigerated tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini float to the top and are cooked through.
5. Add Spinach and Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts down. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir well to mix everything together. Keep the soup on low heat but do not let it boil. Warm it gently for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Finish with Parmesan:
Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and nicely incorporated. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, each topped with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if you wish. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of creamy sausage tortellini soup!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Soup?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, simply add it to the boiling soup and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes longer than the package instructions indicate. They’ll be just as delicious!
Can I Substitute Different Meats?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works great. You can also use vegan sausage for a plant-based version. Just ensure whatever you choose is pre-cooked if necessary.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen it back up.
Can I Add More Veggies?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them small and sauté them with the onions before adding the broth for a colorful and nutritious boost.
