This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With juicy sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a delightful meal for any day.
On chilly nights, I love to have this soup simmering on the stove. Plus, it’s quick to whip up, and I can’t resist adding a sprinkle of cheese on top— yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the show! You can choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference. If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well, too.
Olive Oil: A great fat for cooking, but you can use butter for a richer flavor or even avocado oil for a subtle taste. Each option has its benefits!
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build flavor. If you’re out of onions or garlic, shallots can be a good substitute; they offer a milder taste.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the soup. Vegetable broth is a great substitute, especially if you want a vegetarian version.
Diced Tomatoes: They provide acidity and color to the soup. You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them, just chop them up and adjust the cooking time.
Heavy Cream: For a rich texture, but you can swap it with half-and-half or even a dairy-free option like coconut cream for a lighter or vegan version.
How Do I Properly Cook the Sausage?
Cooking the sausage properly is crucial to getting that flavorful base for your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon. This helps it cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and no longer pink. This ensures it’s fully cooked and gives it a nice texture.
- Once cooked, you might want to drain excess fat for a lighter soup. This step is optional!
Following these tips will help you achieve a delicious and balanced flavor in your soup! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 9 oz (250 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Time Needed
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 30 minutes of cooking time, making the total around 45 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain some off.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
3. Stir in the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend beautifully!
4. Add the Tortellini:
Put in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, which is usually around 3-5 minutes until tender. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
5. Make it Creamy:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, mixing until everything is well combined. Now, add the chopped spinach and cook just until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Season and Serve:
Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, giving it a lovely, balanced flavor. Ladle the soup into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for that extra touch!
Enjoy your warm, creamy sausage tortellini soup with some crusty bread or a refreshing green salad for a satisfying meal!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage! Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or submerge it in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, follow the recipe as usual.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to maintain its creamy texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup (without the added cream) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! You can customize the soup by adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and add them when sautéing the onions. They will enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup!