There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade comfort, and this Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe delivers just that with every spoonful. Combining the hearty flavor of Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth infused with fragrant herbs, this soup is the perfect blend of satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re craving a soul-soothing dinner or an impressive yet easy meal to share, this recipe will quickly become one of your staples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors. Each item plays a key role in building that cozy, inviting profile that makes this soup so irresistible.
- Italian sausage: Adds rich, savory depth and a touch of spice to the broth.
- Small onion, diced: Provides a sweet foundation when sautéed and softens the sausage’s intensity.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with warm, aromatic notes.
- Chicken broth: Acts as the hearty base that carries all the flavors beautifully.
- Dried basil: Introduces a subtle herbal lift and freshness.
- Dried oregano: Complements the basil with classic Italian earthiness.
- Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the spices.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Brings delightful richness and a chewy texture that makes the soup stand out.
- Fresh spinach: Offers vibrant color and a light, healthy touch as it wilts into the soup.
- Heavy cream: Gives the broth its luscious creaminess that ties everything together.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the Italian sausage and cook it until it’s beautifully browned. Make sure to break it into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking and that savory crispy texture everyone loves.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the sausage is golden, add the diced onion and minced garlic right into the pot. Sauté these until they are softened and fragrant. This step is where the base of your soup’s flavor really begins to shine, filling the kitchen with a wonderful aroma.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth along with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until the seasonings are well distributed and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer to Develop Flavors
After reaching a boil, lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes. This simmering stage allows the flavors to meld together and the broth to develop a robust, satisfying taste.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This step transforms the soup by adding that irresistible cheesy bite to each spoonful.
Step 6: Add Fresh Spinach
Once the tortellini is tender, stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly, lending a beautiful bright green color and fresh, earthy flavor that balances the richness perfectly.
Step 7: Finish With Cream
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let the soup simmer for an additional five minutes so that the cream can integrate fully into the broth, making it silky smooth and indulgently rich.
Step 8: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You want every bite to be perfectly seasoned and just right. Then, ladle the hot, comforting soup into bowls and enjoy every spoonful of your homemade Sausage Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a few torn basil leaves on top can elevate the presentation and add layers of flavor. Fresh cracked pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes also brings a hint of heat for those who like a little extra kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs amazingly well with warm, crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the silky broth. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also add a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in mini bread bowls for a fun and hearty meal presentation. Alternatively, ladle it over a bed of cooked pasta or rice for a twist that turns the soup into a more substantial entrée. Leftover sausage tortellini soup also makes a fantastic base for a casserole or baked dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a perfect meal to enjoy again later in the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
Because this soup contains tortellini and cream, freezing is possible but with some care. Freeze the soup without the cream or tortellini for best results, then add fresh tortellini and cream when reheating. This helps maintain the soup’s texture and taste after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen without the cream and tortellini, add them fresh when warming up and allow the tortellini to cook through. This will refresh the soup’s flavors and keep everything tasting just like new.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative and will still provide great flavor. Just keep in mind it might be a little milder, so you can add more herbs or spices to boost the taste if you like.
Is it okay to use dried spinach instead of fresh?
Fresh spinach is definitely preferred for its texture and color, but if you only have dried spinach, you can add it earlier in the cooking process so it hydrates well. Just know the soup won’t have quite the same vibrant look or fresh flavor.
Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding mushrooms or plant-based sausage substitutes can help maintain that hearty feel.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning, or use a spicy Italian sausage. A dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper right before serving also works wonderfully.
What cheese is best for the tortellini?
This recipe uses cheese tortellini, typically filled with ricotta and Parmesan or similar cheeses. You can find them refrigerated or frozen in most grocery stores. If you want, you can even make your own cheese filling for a special homemade touch!
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, and this Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe hits all the right notes. It’s cozy, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make, making it an ideal recipe to add to your repertoire. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this soup is sure to impress and comfort anyone lucky enough to have a bowl. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love!
Print
Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup combines Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a flavorful broth enriched with herbs and creamy heavy cream. Perfect for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups fresh spinach
Pantry Items and Seasonings
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
Instructions
- Heat the pot: Place a large pot over medium-high heat to prepare for cooking the sausage and sautéing the aromatics.
- Cook the sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon for even cooking and texture.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned sausage. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, releasing the flavors.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and stir in dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to build the soup’s base flavor.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Cook tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until tender.
- Add spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they are wilted, enhancing the soup with freshness and nutrients.
- Incorporate cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to create a creamy texture and rich flavor throughout the soup.
- Final simmer: Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to fully integrate the cream and adjust the temperature for serving.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and add any additional salt or pepper according to preference to balance the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the hot sausage tortellini soup into bowls and enjoy immediately for a comforting, hearty meal.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will be less rich.
- Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- You can add other vegetables like diced carrots or celery for extra texture and nutrients.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.
- For gluten-free, opt for gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free pasta.
