This tasty Sausage Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features juicy sausage and cheesy tortellini swimming in a rich broth with veggies. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick and easy it is to make! In just one pot, you have a hearty meal that feels fancy and comforting. Plus, it’s great for leftovers—if you can resist the first bowl! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy according to your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. Personally, I enjoy a mix of both for added flavor.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onions and garlic build a great flavor base. You can use shallots instead of onion for a milder taste. If you’re short on time, pre-chopped onions and garlic can save you some effort!
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the soup. Vegetable broth is a perfect substitute for a vegetarian option. Stock is richer too, so you might experiment with that for additional flavor.
Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky flavor! If you’re avoiding canned goods, fresh tomatoes can also work; just chop them up and add a bit of extra broth.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. I often swap in cashew cream if I’m feeling adventurous!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Sausage for Soup?
Cooking the sausage is a crucial step to enhance the soup’s flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Use a large pot to allow even cooking. Medium heat helps render the fat slowly, which adds richness.
- Break up the sausage as it cooks, ensuring all parts get browned. This step adds flavor through caramelization.
- Don’t rush it! Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, then drain excess fat if needed for a healthier dish.
With this step, you’ll have a solid flavor foundation for your soup that really shines!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick meal option that doesn’t skimp on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it to be browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot where you cooked the sausage, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it until it becomes translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing by now!
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Now, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth along with the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices). Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra heat. Bring the soup to a boil to combine all those wonderful flavors.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
5. Add Spinach and Sausage Back:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook just until the spinach is wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrients!
6. Stir in the Cream:
Next, stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat through, but be careful not to boil it after adding the cream; you want it nice and creamy!
7. Serve it Up:
Finally, ladle the lovely soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve it hot and enjoy every comforting bite!
This creamy, flavorful soup is packed with spicy sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach—perfect for cozy evenings!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. They’ll cook up beautifully in the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for added flavor. Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you have a delicious meat-free meal!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy consistency.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them up and toss them in when you add the onions to give them enough time to cook through.
