This hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, tender tortellini, and colorful veggies, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
You’ll love how easy this is to make, and the smell while it cooks? So good! I like to top mine with a sprinkle of cheese. Who can resist that? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can use mild for a gentle flavor or spicy for a kick. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re out, shallots or a couple of teaspoons of onion powder can do the trick.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. If you’re in a pinch, you can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring flavor and color. You can substitute with crushed tomatoes or use diced fresh tomatoes if you have them on hand.
Heavy Cream: This adds a rich creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, coconut milk or a plant-based cream are good alternatives.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini enhances the soup. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini or use small pasta shapes like orzo.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds nutrients and color. Kale or swiss chard can also work if you have them around.
How Do You Achieve the Best Flavor in This Soup?
The key step to a delightful soup is to truly develop the flavors. Start by browning the sausage to create a deep flavor base. Don’t rush when cooking the onions; they should be translucent to add sweetness.
- Heat the oil in your pot, then add the sausage. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- After adding garlic, cook it just until fragrant—burnt garlic can taste bitter.
- Let the broth simmer to allow the ingredients to meld. This enhances the soup’s overall depth!
Remember, always taste before serving, and adjust the seasoning to your preference. Enjoy making this delicious, comforting soup!
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 9 oz (250 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total—around 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll be savoring this delicious soup in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
Once the sausage is cooked, add the chopped onion. Sauté it until it’s softened and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
3. Combine Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the chicken broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This helps combine all those flavors!
4. Stir in the Cream:
Reduce the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream. This will give your soup a creamy, rich texture.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated tortellini directly into the soup pot. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini are cooked through and tender.
6. Add Spinach:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until they wilt. This adds a nice pop of color and nutrition!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve it hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
There you have it: a creamy, hearty sausage tortellini soup that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add them to the soup while it’s simmering and extend the cooking time by an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they’re heated through. No need to thaw them first!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut milk or a creamy cashew nut sauce. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover sausage tortellini soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the onions for a few extra minutes before adding the broth. It’s a great way to enhance nutrition and flavor!
