This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tasty sausage and tender tortellini, it’s perfect for cozy nights at home.
You can whip this up in no time, and trust me, the smell will have everyone’s mouth watering. I love to ladle it into bowls and top it with some fresh parmesan. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a rush, shallots or green onions can be great substitutes.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh tortellini is delightful, but frozen works just as well. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free tortellini options available in stores.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and flavor, but kale or even frozen spinach can be used. If using frozen, add it later to avoid overcooking.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy, but half-and-half or whole milk can be great substitutes for a lighter version.
How Do I Achieve the Best Flavor in This Soup?
Building flavor starts with cooking the sausage until it’s nicely browned; that deep flavor forms the base of the soup. Follow these steps:
- Heat olive oil first—this helps the sausage brown.
- Don’t rush the onion! Sauté it until it’s soft. This makes a big difference in taste.
- Always season well. Add salt and pepper as you go to layer your flavors.
- Don’t skip the crushed red pepper flakes if you like spice; adjust to your liking!
These small steps make a huge difference in your final dish. Enjoy digging into a bowl of this cozy soup!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 20 minutes cooking it all together. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal when you’re craving something warm and hearty!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it nice and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s cooked all the way through!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add in your diced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent—this will take about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir it for another minute until it’s fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, including all that delicious juice. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you want a little kick. Season with salt and pepper, then bring everything to a boil.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once boiling, toss in the tortellini. Keep an eye on the cooking time and follow the package instructions—it usually takes about 3-5 minutes for them to be perfectly tender.
5. Stir in the Spinach:
Add your chopped spinach to the pot and stir until it’s wilted, which should only take about 1-2 minutes. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some greens!
6. Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat, and pour in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything is creamy and smooth. *Mmm, this is where the magic happens!*
7. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it. You want it just right!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped fresh parsley and more grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of your creamy sausage tortellini soup!
Bon Appétit!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap in turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. Vegetarian sausage works well if you’re looking for a meatless version. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning according to your choice since different sausages have varied flavor profiles.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it’s too thick.
What Are Some Good Toppings for the Soup?
Great question! Besides fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, you can add a drizzle of olive oil, croutons for crunch, or even a dollop of sour cream for a creamy touch. Fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also elevate the flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can enhance the flavors by adding more veggies like carrots or bell peppers for a heartier soup!
