This hearty sausage tortellini soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh veggies, it’s both comforting and filling.
Let’s be real, it’s hard not to smile when you slurp up those little pasta pockets. I love how quick it is to make—perfect for busy days or cozy nights! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can opt for mild or spicy based on your taste. If you want a healthier version, turkey sausage is a great alternative.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds a lovely richness. You can use frozen tortellini if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking times as needed!
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into this soup. If you don’t have spinach, kale or frozen spinach works too. Just remember to thaw frozen spinach and drain any excess water.
Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Chicken Broth: It’s great for flavor, but you can substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth is also a fantastic choice for added depth.
How Do You Brown Sausage Perfectly Without Overcooking It?
Browned sausage provides essential flavor for the soup. To do this well, follow these steps:
- Start with a hot pan over medium heat, adding olive oil before the sausage.
- Break the sausage into pieces; this helps it cook evenly and get those nice brown edges without drying out.
- Cook until fully brown, around 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want it nicely colored, but not burnt.
This attention to browning will leave you with tasty sausage that enhances your soup! Enjoy making this cozy dish!
Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick yet hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to remove some, but leave a little for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it becomes soft, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it’s fragrant—this step adds a wonderful aroma!
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth along with the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain them). Stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Bring this mixture to a nice boil!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once it’s boiling, add the tortellini into the pot. Cook according to the package directions, which is usually around 3-5 minutes until they’re tender and swimming happily in the soup.
5. Incorporate Spinach and Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and add the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts beautifully and the soup is warmed through.
6. Final Seasoning:
Now, taste your soup and add salt and black pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the delicious soup into bowls. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
This creamy and flavorful sausage tortellini soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! You can use frozen tortellini in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it might take a bit longer than refrigerated tortellini. There’s no need to thaw them first; just add them directly to the boiling soup!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half works great as a substitute. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative, though it will impart a subtle coconut flavor. Non-dairy creamers are also an option if you want to keep it vegan.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Store your sausage tortellini soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just add them with the onions in step 2 so they have enough time to soften before adding the broth.
