Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup to bring comfort on a chilly day. This one-pot wonder is a symphony of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, flavorful broth that feels like a hug in a bowl.

I first discovered this recipe during a family potluck, where it quickly became the star of the evening. It's now my go-to for cozy dinners and an absolute hit with everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why this Sausage Tortellini Soup is destined to be a favorite in your household!

Why You'll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Get ready to embrace your new favorite comfort food. This Sausage Tortellini Soup combines ease, flavor, and versatility into one incredible dish.

First, it’s ridiculously easy to make. With just one pot and minimal prep, you can have a hearty dinner on the table in under an hour. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something quick yet satisfying.

The flavors are out of this world. Juicy, flavorful sausage pairs perfectly with tender cheese-filled tortellini, all swimming in a broth that’s equal parts creamy and savory. It's the kind of meal that has everyone going back for seconds.

This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for feeding a group, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, it’s adaptable to various dietary preferences with a few simple swaps.

Finally, the leftovers are just as amazing. The soup reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead option for meal prepping or enjoying throughout the week.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Sausage Tortellini Soup lies in its simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering that irresistible flavor and texture.

Italian Sausage: I recommend using spicy or mild Italian sausage for the best flavor. It adds depth and richness to the soup that’s hard to beat. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works wonderfully too.

Tortellini: Cheese-filled tortellini are the star here, offering a creamy, cheesy bite in every spoonful. You can use fresh, frozen, or even shelf-stable tortellini, depending on what’s convenient for you.

Broth and Cream: The broth is a blend of chicken stock and heavy cream, creating a velvety base. If you’re looking to cut calories, you can substitute with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Vegetables: Diced onions, carrots, and celery form the classic mirepoix base, infusing the soup with a savory depth of flavor. Fresh spinach or kale adds a pop of color and nutrients at the end.

Herbs and Spices: A mix of garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional) adds the perfect balance of aromatics and spice.

A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot will make cooking this soup a breeze, ensuring even cooking and easy cleanup.

How To Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Making this Sausage Tortellini Soup is as easy as it gets. With just a few steps, you’ll have a steaming pot of deliciousness ready to enjoy.

Start by browning your Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving behind the rendered fat in the pot.

Next, sauté your mirepoix – diced onions, carrots, and celery – in the same pot. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

Pour in your chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, lifting up all those flavorful browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Return the sausage to the pot and stir in the tortellini. Let them cook until tender, usually about 5-7 minutes. Fresh tortellini will cook faster than frozen or dried varieties, so keep an eye on them.

Once the tortellini are done, stir in heavy cream and a handful of fresh spinach or kale. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted, and the soup is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

This soup is ready to serve right away, but the flavors only deepen as it sits. Total cooking time is around 40 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight option.

Storage Options

This Sausage Tortellini Soup stores beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

To refrigerate, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to freeze it, leave out the tortellini and cream before freezing. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and the cream from separating. Add those ingredients when reheating for the best texture. Freeze in a sturdy, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

When reheating, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the consistency if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences.

For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for plant-based alternatives or add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Looking for a lower-carb option? Replace the tortellini with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly twist.

If you enjoy a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, stir in a dollop of harissa or a splash of hot sauce for a smoky heat.

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with evaporated milk or plain Greek yogurt. You’ll still get a creamy texture with fewer calories.

Get creative with the greens! Try Swiss chard, arugula, or even frozen peas instead of spinach. Each adds its unique flavor and texture to the soup.

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a canvas for your culinary imagination. Feel free to experiment and make it your own – the possibilities are endless!

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