This creamy sausage tortellini soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with juicy sausage, delicious cheese tortellini, and fresh veggies, all simmered in a rich broth.
Honestly, it’s so easy to make you’ll feel like a kitchen pro! I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all that yummy goodness. Perfect for cozy nights! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: The star of this soup is the sausage! I love using mild sausage, but spicy works great too if you enjoy a kick. You can swap it for turkey or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini adds a creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini. You can even use pasta shapes like penne or shells in a pinch!
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the soup creamy. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt (add it at the end to prevent curdling!). Coconut milk is a great non-dairy alternative for creaminess.
Spinach: Fresh spinach brightens the soup and adds nutrients. You can substitute it with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer, or even throw in some frozen spinach in a hurry (just thaw it first).
How Do You Get the Right Flavor in Your Soup?
Getting the flavors right in this soup is essential. Start by browning the sausage well; the caramelization brings out incredible taste. Make sure to sauté the garlic just enough to release its aroma, but don’t let it burn for the best flavor.
- Sauté sausage until fully browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook onions until they turn soft, and add garlic last to keep its flavor fresh.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness.
Remember, you can always season more at the end! This way, you can balance out flavors without over-salting from the start.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a warm, comforting meal on your table in about 35 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess grease if needed!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook it for about 3 minutes, until it becomes softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic. You don’t want to burn the garlic, so keep an eye on it!
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (be sure to include all the juice). Add the Italian seasoning, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the soup is boiling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions—usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender.
5. Finish the Soup:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped spinach. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup is warmed through.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Give the soup a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Remember, this is your soup—all about your preferences!
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that lovely finishing touch. Serve hot with some crusty bread alongside for dipping and enjoy your creamy goodness!
Bon appétit! Your creamy, hearty, and oh-so-comforting sausage tortellini soup is ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add them straight into the pot without thawing. You may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes, so just cook until they float and are tender.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure it heats evenly.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist (just stir it in at the end to avoid curdling). For a non-dairy choice, try coconut milk or a cashew cream for creaminess.
What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?
The recipe is flexible! You can use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works great too, but adjust the cooking time accordingly if it’s pre-cooked.
