This hearty sausage tortellini soup is perfect for a cozy meal! It combines tasty sausage, tender tortellini, and colorful veggies in a warm, flavorful broth.
This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! I love making a big pot so I can enjoy leftovers for lunch. Just grab a piece of crusty bread, and you’re all set!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage to suit your taste. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too!
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini adds the best texture, but you can also use dried tortellini. Just cook it longer. If gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options!
Spinach or Kale: I love using fresh spinach for its mild flavor. If you can’t find it, frozen spinach is a great substitute. Just thaw and drain it well.
Heavy Cream: Half-and-half is a lighter option if you’re watching calories, or you could use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
How Can I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Getting the flavors to shine in this soup is all about proper cooking techniques. First, sauté the onions until they’re nicely translucent before adding garlic, which gives a great base flavor.
- Cook the sausage well; browning it really enhances the taste.
- Don’t skip simmering the broth with spices—this helps everything meld together nicely.
- Finally, add the cream slowly and avoid boiling at this stage to keep it smooth and luscious.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or olive oil spray
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking, making a total of about 45 minutes to put together. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and then toss in the diced onion. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This creates a lovely base for your soup.
2. Add the Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it for another 30 seconds, just until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Sausage:
Add the Italian sausage next. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. The sausage adds so much flavor!
4. Mix in the Broth and Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, dried Italian seasoning, and if you like a little heat, the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld together.
5. Add the Tortellini:
Next, add the tortellini to the pot. Cook it according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini is tender and floating. It’s a quick and easy addition!
6. Stir in Greens:
Once the tortellini is ready, stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Cook until the greens are wilted and vibrant, which should only take about a minute.
7. Creamy Finish:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat everything through without boiling. This step makes the soup wonderfully creamy! Taste and adjust with salt and pepper to make it just right.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. If you like, add fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
This soup is creamy, hearty, and full of comforting flavors — a perfect meal for cooler days! Enjoy every warm spoonful!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you like, such as turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even a plant-based sausage if you prefer a vegetarian or vegan dish.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! To make this soup vegan, swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk like coconut cream or cashew cream.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Leftover sausage tortellini soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave out the cream until you’re ready to eat. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, and then stir in the cream when ready to serve.
