The Best Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of sausage tortellini soup to bring comfort to a chilly evening. This soul-soothing dish is packed with tender cheese-filled tortellini, savory sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth that feels like a warm hug in every spoonful.

I discovered this recipe during a winter potluck, and it’s been a staple in my kitchen ever since. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to soup recipe. Sausage tortellini soup is everything you want in a comforting meal, and more.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is simple and straightforward, requiring only a handful of ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time.

It’s also bursting with flavor. The combination of smoky, spiced sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy tomato-based broth creates a dish that’s rich and satisfying with every bite.

Not to mention, it’s family-friendly. Kids adore the cheesy tortellini, while adults can’t get enough of the robust, hearty flavors. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings.

Finally, this recipe is versatile and adaptable. You can tweak it to fit dietary preferences, swap ingredients to suit what you have on hand, or add extra vegetables for an even heartier meal.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this soup’s amazing flavor lies in its simple yet perfectly chosen ingredients. Here’s what makes this dish shine:

Italian sausage is the star of the show. Opt for hot or mild sausage, depending on your spice preference. The sausage’s rich, savory flavors infuse the broth, giving the soup its signature taste.

Tortellini adds a delicious, cheesy element to the soup. Choose fresh or frozen cheese tortellini for the best results, but any tortellini variety works beautifully.

Tomato paste and diced tomatoes form the base of the broth, delivering a deep, slightly tangy flavor. These ingredients balance the richness of the sausage and cream perfectly.

Heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or even milk, though the soup won’t be quite as rich.

Spinach or kale is the ideal way to add some greens to the mix. These leafy vegetables wilt beautifully into the hot broth, providing a pop of color and a boost of nutrition.

You’ll also need a few pantry staples like onions, garlic, chicken broth, and seasonings to round out the flavor profile. A large soup pot or Dutch oven is the only special equipment you’ll need.

How to Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creating this incredible soup is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfectly cozy meal:

Start by browning Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, and once it’s browned and cooked through, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease.

In the same pot, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent. These aromatics will form the flavor base of your soup.

Next, stir in tomato paste and cook it for a minute or two to deepen its flavor. Add a can of diced tomatoes (with juices), and pour in chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Return the sausage to the pot, then add the tortellini. Let the pasta cook in the simmering broth according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale, and let it wilt. Finally, pour in heavy cream, stirring until the broth is creamy and well combined.

Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite Italian herbs to taste. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Storage Options

Sausage tortellini soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will deepen over time, making the soup even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the soup without the tortellini for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove and add fresh tortellini. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become mushy during storage.

Reheat the soup gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Protein swap: Use ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
• Extra veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for more texture and nutrients.
• Pasta options: Substitute the tortellini with ravioli or small pasta shapes like orecchiette or farfalle.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.

Feel free to experiment and adjust the recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs. No matter how you customize it, this sausage tortellini soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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