Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

There's nothing better than a warm, hearty bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup on a chilly evening. This comforting dish is packed with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and vibrant vegetables swimming in a rich, flavorful broth.

I first discovered this recipe when looking for an easy, one-pot dinner to keep my family cozy during the colder months. It's now a staple in our home, loved for its simplicity and irresistible flavor. Let’s dive into what makes this soup so special.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Get ready to add this Sausage Tortellini Soup to your regular dinner rotation. It’s the ultimate comfort food, made with simple ingredients that come together in a snap.

First, this soup is incredibly quick and easy to make. From chopping to simmering, you can have a steaming bowl ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights when time is short but you still want something hearty and homemade.

Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The bold flavor of the sausage paired with the creamy, cheesy tortellini makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. Even the picky eaters in your family will be asking for seconds!

Additionally, this recipe is a one-pot wonder. Less cleanup means more time to sit back and enjoy your meal.

Lastly, it’s versatile. You can easily swap in different veggies, use chicken sausage, or even add a splash of cream for a richer broth.

Whether you're feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Sausage Tortellini Soup lies in its thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each one contributes to the soup’s depth of flavor and heartiness.

• Italian Sausage: The key flavor driver in this soup. Opt for spicy sausage if you like a kick or mild sausage for a more family-friendly option. Make sure to crumble it as it cooks for even distribution in the soup.
• Cheese Tortellini: These little pillows of pasta are the star of the show. Fresh tortellini is ideal, but frozen works just as well—just adjust the cooking time slightly.
• Vegetables: Classic choices like onions, carrots, and celery create a flavorful base. Don’t skip the garlic, as it adds an aromatic depth to the broth.
• Crushed Tomatoes: These bring a tangy richness to the soup. For a smoother broth, you can use tomato sauce instead.
• Chicken Broth: The foundation of the soup. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt level, or swap in vegetable broth for a vegetarian version (just skip the sausage).
• Spinach or Kale: A handful of fresh greens stirred in at the end brightens the soup and adds a pop of color.

You’ll also need basic pantry staples like olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. A large pot or Dutch oven is perfect for cooking this one-pot meal.

How to Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creating this mouthwatering Sausage Tortellini Soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to make it step-by-step.

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them until they’re softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Season with dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Return the sausage to the pot and add the cheese tortellini. Let them simmer gently in the broth until they’re tender and cooked through, usually 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini or a bit longer for frozen.

Step 5: Add the Greens

Stir in a handful of spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt for 1-2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping!

Storage Options

This soup is just as good the next day, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

• Refrigerator: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The tortellini may soak up some of the broth, so you might want to add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup (minus the tortellini) for up to 3 months. Cook and add fresh tortellini when you’re ready to serve to avoid mushy pasta.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Microwave reheating also works; just heat in short intervals to prevent overcooking the tortellini.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Protein Swap: Replace the Italian sausage with chicken sausage, ground turkey, or even meatless sausage for a vegetarian twist.
• Broth Options: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy version of this soup. You can also use beef broth for a richer, heartier flavor.
• Veggie Boost: Stir in zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
• Tortellini Varieties: Try spinach and ricotta tortellini or even meat-filled versions for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Use hot Italian sausage and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to kick up the heat.

Feel free to experiment and make this recipe uniquely yours. After all, the best recipes are the ones you tailor to your taste!

This Sausage Tortellini Soup will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those days when you need a little extra comfort. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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