This cozy sausage tortellini soup is packed with yummy flavors! It combines hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh veggies in a warm, tasty broth.
It’s perfect for chilly nights when you want something quick and comforting! I love how easy it is to whip up and enjoy a big bowl for dinner. 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This brings a rich flavor to the soup. You can use either mild or spicy depending on your taste. If you’re avoiding pork, try turkey or chicken sausage as a lighter option.
Chicken Broth: A good base for the soup, but you could use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that it might change the richness slightly.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, I like heavy cream, but half-and-half also works well if you want something a bit lighter. If you’re looking for dairy-free, coconut milk or cashew cream can be good alternatives.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is delicious here, but you can try other pasta shapes, like small shells or even gluten-free options. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Soup?
Building layers of flavor is key here! Start by browning the sausage well; that caramelization adds depth. Don’t rush the onion and garlic either; let them soften to unleash their sweetness.
- Heat olive oil first, then add sausage, and break it apart while it cooks.
- Sauté the onion until it’s soft, followed by garlic just until fragrant.
- Simmering the broth with the tomatoes and seasonings for a while helps blend all these flavors.
These steps ensure your soup is flavorful and comforting, making it a standout dish for any meal! Enjoy! 😊
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 20 minutes to cook, making the total time roughly 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and delicious enough to impress your family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the Italian sausage (remove from its casing) and break it up with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which will take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot and let it cook until softened, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until you can smell that delicious aroma!
3. Make the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices). Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes. This helps all those yummy flavors combine!
4. Stir in Cream and Tortellini:
Now, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half if you prefer it lighter). Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package directions, typically about 3-5 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
5. Add the Spinach:
Lastly, stir in the fresh baby spinach leaves and let them cook just until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This adds a lovely vibrant color and fresh flavor to the soup!
6. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot in bowls and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top to finish. Enjoy your hearty and creamy sausage tortellini soup!
This hearty sausage tortellini soup is deliciously creamy and satisfying, perfect for a comforting meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Soup?
Absolutely! If you have frozen tortellini, just add them directly to the pot without thawing. You may need to increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your tortellini is cheese-based or find plant-based options!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, and if it thickens, add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth to loosen it up.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them small and add them with the onions to ensure they cook thoroughly and blend well in the soup.
