This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that brings together creamy, savory, and hearty flavors in one bowl. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this soup features tender tortellini, flavorful sausage, and fresh spinach that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and bursting with taste, it’s a comforting meal for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in under an hour.
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of sausage and tortellini makes this soup filling enough to serve as a main dish.
- Versatile: You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it stores well in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Sausage Tortellini Soup, having the right tools on hand can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly and holding all ingredients comfortably.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and efficient cutting of onions, garlic, and other veggies.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pots.
Ingredients
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors. The tender tortellini, flavorful sausage, and fresh spinach make it a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by all.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
– 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the soup to a simmer.
Step 4: Cook Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually 4–6 minutes until tender.
Step 5: Add Cream and Spinach
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the soup; adjust salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or add a bit of flair, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Slice a crusty baguette and serve it warm on the side for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: Toast slices of garlic bread for a flavorful pairing with the soup.
Topped with Greens
- Fresh Basil: Add freshly chopped basil leaves for an aromatic touch.
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over each bowl for a burst of color and freshness.
Cheese Varieties
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melt shredded mozzarella on top for extra creaminess.
- Feta Cheese: Crumble feta cheese for a tangy twist that complements the soup’s flavors.
Accompanying Salads
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad adds freshness and balances the meal.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Sausage Tortellini Soup is perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Sausage: Select high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor and texture in your soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully to avoid mushy tortellini; they should be tender but firm.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper gradually to find the right balance without over-seasoning.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for sopping up every last drop of soup.
- Caprese Salad: A fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil adds a refreshing contrast.
- Antipasto Platter: Serve an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted peppers for variety.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil creates a delicious appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy side option that complements the soup well.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Cheesy breadsticks are fun to eat and pair nicely with the rich flavors of the soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a satisfying side dish.
- Simple Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans tossed with olive oil and lemon offer a bright note alongside your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can make your Sausage Tortellini Soup even better. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Using uncooked sausage: Always brown the sausage before adding other ingredients. This enhances the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup adequately. A pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy tortellini. Cook it just until tender for the best texture.
- Not adjusting cream: If you prefer a lighter soup, consider reducing the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; don’t skip this component! Add it at the end for maximum freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Consider leaving out the cream if you plan to freeze, as it may change texture when reheated.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with aluminum foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout. Use a microwave-safe container.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup:
What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy and hearty dish made with Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, tomatoes, and spinach. It combines comforting flavors that many love.
Can I use frozen tortellini for this recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen tortellini. Just add them directly to the simmering soup without thawing.
How can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition or swap out spinach for kale or Swiss chard.
Is Sausage Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you prefer a bit more spice or added veggies, you can easily customize it. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of warmth that brings comfort on any chilly day!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Savor the warmth of our Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful blend of creamy textures and bold flavors. This comforting dish features tender cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings, this one-pot meal is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare—ready in under an hour. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a personal touch! Enjoy a bowl of this nourishing soup that promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened (about 2–3 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions (4–6 minutes).
- Reduce heat to medium-low; stir in heavy cream and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts (2–3 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
