This Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh veggies, it’s hearty and comforting.
Perfect for those chilly nights, this soup is so easy to make. I love how it all comes together in one pot—less mess means more time to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works great as a substitute.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh refrigerated tortellini is best for this soup. If you can’t find it, frozen tortellini is also a good choice. Just be sure to adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. The soup may be slightly less rich but still delicious!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. You can use kale or Swiss chard as substitutes. If you’re short on greens, frozen spinach works in a pinch; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Flavor Balance?
Flavor is key in this soup! The initial steps help develop a base that really brings out the best of each ingredient. Here are some tips:
- Make sure the sausage is thoroughly browned before adding other ingredients to enhance its flavor.
- Don’t rush the onion and garlic stage. Sauté until they’re soft; this builds a rich foundation for the soup.
- Simmer the soup gently after adding the cream. This helps meld the flavors together without curdling the cream.
- Adjust seasoning at the end, since the sausage can be salty. Taste first before adding more salt and pepper.
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 35 minutes to have this comforting soup served and ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the sausage thoroughly for about 5-7 minutes, or until no longer pink. If there’s extra grease, carefully drain it off.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, mix in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until you can smell the fragrant aroma.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, the chicken broth, and the dried Italian seasoning. If you like a bit of heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes too. Stir everything together and let the mixture come to a simmer.
4. Stir in the Cream:
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the soup to gently simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors mingle.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they are tender and cooked through.
6. Add the Spinach:
Now, stir in the roughly chopped fresh spinach and cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until it’s wilted.
7. Season and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicier!
Now, sit back and enjoy your warm, creamy bowl of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup—a perfect combination of flavors and comfort!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used! Just increase the cooking time slightly, usually by a couple of minutes. Follow the package instructions for best results.
Can I Substitute the Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian version, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms for similar texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it’s too thick upon reheating.
Can I Add Extra Veggies to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic at the beginning for a nutrition boost and added flavor!
