This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tasty sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth that’s irresistible.
Honestly, I could have this soup every week! It’s super easy to make, and it always brings smiles around the dinner table. Pair it with some bread, and you’ve got a meal that warms the heart!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This gives the soup its delicious flavor. You can opt for either mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too!
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the soup. If you have a sensitive stomach, you might consider using shallots or green onions for a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that punchy flavor. You can substitute it with garlic powder, but use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove.
Chicken Broth: This is the base of the soup. You could use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or low-sodium broth to cut down on salt.
Diced Tomatoes: The tomatoes add a nice texture. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to chop them up. Canned tomatoes can also be substituted for crushed tomatoes for a smoother soup.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy and rich. If you want a lighter option, half and half, or a non-dairy milk like coconut milk can be used, but the flavor will be different.
How Do I Make Sure My Tortellini are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking tortellini can be a bit tricky, but just follow these tips to get it right every time:
- Always check the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually cooks faster than frozen ones.
- Add the tortellini once the soup is boiling to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook for just a few minutes. You want them tender but not overcooked or mushy; they should float to the top when done!
- Don’t forget to give them a gentle stir to prevent sticking!
What’s the Best Way to Enhance Flavor in My Soup?
Flavors develop best through proper seasoning and technique, here are my favorites:
- Season the sausage as it cooks—this helps infuse the whole dish with flavor.
- After adding the broth and tomatoes, taste and adjust seasoning before adding tortellini. Seasoning at different stages helps build layers of flavor.
- Letting the soup simmer after adding cream gives everything a chance to meld beautifully!
Enjoy crafting this cozy and creamy dish that brings comfort to any table!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking, making the total time approximately 35 minutes. This soup comes together quickly, making it great for weeknight dinners!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spoon while it cooks until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, you can drain it out to keep the soup lighter.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until it smells wonderfully fragrant.
3. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot along with the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if you want some heat, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once boiling, toss in the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions, usually cooking for about 3-5 minutes until they’re nice and tender.
5. Stir in Cream and Greens:
Turn the heat down to low and gently mix in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and parsley. Let everything simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is warmed through.
6. Final Touches:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed—everyone’s taste is a bit different!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your soup while it’s hot, garnishing each bowl with extra parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it alongside some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delicious, creamy sausage tortellini soup!
This hearty soup just begs for cozy evenings and will leave everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy! 🍲
Can I Use A Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option or use chicken or pork sausage for different flavors. Just keep in mind that the taste of the soup may vary slightly based on the sausage used.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance! Just make sure to add the tortellini and spinach closer to serving time, as they can become mushy if cooked too long. The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just be sure to leave out the tortellini before freezing, as they can become mushy upon thawing. Reheat gently on the stove.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add additional veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the onion and garlic to ensure they cook through before adding the broth.
