There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of sausage tortellini soup on a chilly evening. Packed with tender tortellini, savory sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth, this dish has quickly become a staple in my household. Not only is it a breeze to make, but it’s also hearty enough to satisfy the whole family.
I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to elevate a simple tortellini dish into a full meal. One taste, and I knew it was a keeper. Let’s dive into why this soup deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup
Get ready to fall head over heels for this incredible soup. It’s not just another dinner option; it’s an experience of comfort and flavor.
First, it’s quick and easy to make. With just 30 minutes from stovetop to table, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and satisfying without the hassle of a complicated recipe.
The flavors are out of this world. The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and a broth that’s rich with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs creates a dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen.
This soup is also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer a creamy broth or a tomato-based version, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any veggies you have lingering in your fridge.
Lastly, it’s a one-pot wonder. Less cleanup means more time to relax and enjoy your evening, making this soup as practical as it is delicious.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this sausage tortellini soup lies in its perfectly balanced ingredients, each one adding something special to the dish.
The Italian sausage is the star of the show. Whether you choose spicy or mild, its rich, savory flavor is what makes this soup so irresistible. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage works beautifully too.
Next up are the tortellini. I recommend using fresh, refrigerated tortellini for the best texture, but frozen or shelf-stable varieties work in a pinch. Cheese-filled tortellini are classic, but feel free to experiment with other fillings like spinach or mushroom.
The broth ties everything together. A mix of chicken broth and crushed tomatoes creates the perfect base – hearty and flavorful without being too heavy. For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Don’t underestimate the vegetables. Diced onions, carrots, and celery add depth to the soup, while fresh spinach or kale gives it a vibrant, healthy touch. The veggies also make this dish feel complete and balanced.
Finally, a blend of seasonings like garlic, Italian herbs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes elevates the soup to restaurant-quality status. If you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley on hand, toss them in for an extra burst of flavor.
How To Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup
Making this soup is simpler than you might think, and the results are sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once it’s browned and fully cooked, remove it with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and fragrant. These vegetables form the flavorful base of the soup, so take your time to let them develop some color.
Next, add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn it – you just want it to release its aroma. Then pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer and stir in the cooked sausage. Let the flavors meld together for about 10 minutes before adding the tortellini. Cook the pasta directly in the soup, following the package instructions until it’s tender but not mushy.
If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it in during the last couple of minutes of cooking. The heat of the soup will wilt the greens perfectly without overcooking them. Taste and adjust the seasonings, adding salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve your soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Options
This sausage tortellini soup stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the tortellini may absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you might need to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to freeze it before adding the tortellini, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed. Simply add fresh tortellini when reheating the soup.
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. The creaminess pairs wonderfully with the sausage and tortellini.
- Swap out the sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative to make it lighter or vegetarian-friendly.
- Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients. This is a great way to clean out your fridge.
- Use a different type of pasta if you don’t have tortellini on hand. Small shapes like ditalini, orecchiette, or even gnocchi work well.
- For a spicier kick, opt for hot Italian sausage and add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes to the broth.
This sausage tortellini soup is endlessly customizable, so don’t be afraid to make it your own. It’s a recipe that encourages creativity and guarantees satisfaction every time!
PrintThe Best Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This comforting sausage tortellini soup recipe combines savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a flavorful tomato-based broth for the perfect easy dinner. With rich flavors and simple steps, this one-pot meal is a must-try for busy weeknights or cold days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Remove excess fat if needed.
- Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, stir in tortellini, and simmer for 5-7 minutes until tender.
- Add spinach and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until spinach wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Fresh or frozen tortellini works well. Adjust cook time as needed.
- Add shredded Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups and Stews
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
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