This Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is warm and comforting, packed with tasty sausage and cheesy tortellini. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Honestly, I could enjoy this soup every day! It’s so easy to make, and the flavors are just perfect. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a cozy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy sausage based on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. It still gives great flavor without as much fat.
Chicken Broth: For a richer taste, you can substitute homemade broth. Vegetable broth is a good alternative if you’re cooking for vegetarians, but be aware it will change the flavor a bit.
Cream: Heavy cream makes this soup creamy and rich, but you can use half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version. Coconut cream can work for dairy-free diets but will alter the flavor slightly.
Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini is preferred, but frozen or dried tortellini can also be used. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions if you’re using a different type.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is my go-to for its texture and flavor. You could substitute it with kale or Swiss chard, which are great alternatives, just adjust cooking time as needed.
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
Flavoring the soup well is key. Start by browning the sausage; this step builds a wonderful base flavor! Make sure to cook it until golden brown before adding the onions.
- Cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Next, add onions and let them soften. This adds sweetness and depth.
- Don’t skip the garlic! Add it last to avoid burning, which could make it bitter.
- Let the tomatoes cook with the broth for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
Seasoning your soup at the end is just as important. Taste it before serving, and adjust with salt, pepper, or additional spices. This small step makes a big difference!
How to Make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making it ready in just about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat, carefully drain some off.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s translucent. Then, mix in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Raise the heat to bring everything to a boil, then reduce it and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they float and are tender.
5. Mix in Cream and Spinach:
Stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season and Add Cheese:
Taste the soup and season it with salt and black pepper if needed. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and well combined.
7. Serve the Soup:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley, plus extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy hot with some crusty bread for dipping!
Enjoy your hearty and creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup — it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your tummy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives great flavor, you can substitute it with turkey sausage or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this soup vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add some sautéed mushrooms or other veggies for extra flavor and texture.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, keep in mind that the tortellini may change texture when thawed. It’s best to add tortellini fresh when reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this soup by adding vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the onion for the best results!
