This creamy sausage tortellini soup is so comforting! Packed with tender tortellini, delicious sausage, and a rich, creamy broth, it warms you right up. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick it is to make this soup. Just a few simple steps, and you can enjoy a big bowl in no time. Plus, your kitchen will smell amazing while it’s cooking!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Choose either mild or spicy sausage, depending on your taste. If you prefer a lean option, turkey sausage works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage alternatives.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth of flavor to the soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth can also be substituted. Homemade broth gives a nice touch if you have it on hand!
Tortellini: I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini for the best texture. Frozen tortellini can be used too; just be sure to adjust cooking times according to package directions.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly.
How Can You Perfectly Cook the Tortellini?
Cooking tortellini properly is key for this recipe! It’s super simple, but here’s how to do it right:
- Once your broth mixture is boiling, add the tortellini gently. Stir to prevent sticking.
- Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes.
- They’re done when they float to the top, indicating they’re tender. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking!
By following these steps, you’ll have perfect tortellini in your soup with just the right texture! Enjoy your creamy sausage tortellini soup!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz/410 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 package (9-10 oz/250-280 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick, delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Carefully add the finely chopped onion, letting it cook until it’s translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a great flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Sausage:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the Italian sausage to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it out!
3. Mix in Spices and Broth:
Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and the optional crushed red pepper flakes for some heat. Then, pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring everything to a lively boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to merge beautifully!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Now it’s time to add the tortellini! Stir them in and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they rise to the surface and are tender. This is where your soup starts getting cozy!
5. Final Touches:
Once the tortellini are cooked, stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the soup is nicely heated through. It should look creamy and inviting!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Ladle the warm soup into pretty bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, and if you like, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for that extra pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your hearty soup with some crusty bread on the side!
This creamy sausage tortellini soup is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare — a fantastic option for cozy family dinners!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just cook them according to the package instructions. They usually take a little longer than fresh, so keep an eye on the cooking time and ensure they are fully cooked through before serving.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, and it will thicken up nicely!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance! Just follow the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy it, reheat it on the stove over medium heat. You might want to add a little extra broth or cream to freshen it up!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to bring back its creaminess. Enjoy!
