Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a comforting dish that combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with the delightful texture of cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings, this soup is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Flavor-Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, and creamy broth creates an irresistible flavor profile that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile Dish: This soup is perfect as a main course or as a starter. Add more veggies or beans for extra nutrition!
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this comforting soup filled with cheesy tortellini and savory sausage.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal! Everything cooks in one pot.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Italian sausage tortellini soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while allowing enough space for all ingredients to meld together.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and helps evenly distribute heat.
Ingredients
This Italian sausage tortellini soup recipe is loaded with flavorful sausage and cheesy pasta in an irresistible creamy tomato broth. It has very little prep time and can be on your table in just 40 minutes!
For the Soup Base
- 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped finely)
- 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
- 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons flour
Broth Ingredients
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Tortellini
- 2 generous cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
Creamy Finish
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach (optional)
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Add the sausage meat to a large soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for 7-10 minutes, or until the sausage is browned all over.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
Take the sausage out of the pot and set it aside on a paper towel lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of the fat in the pot (drain any excess). Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Flour and Garlic
Add the flour and garlic to the pot. Cook for one minute while stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Step 4: Combine with Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring until the flour fully dissolves.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Sausage
Add in canned tomatoes along with their juices and Italian seasoning. Return the cooked sausage back into the pot. Increase heat to high until it gently boils.
Step 6: Cook Tortellini
Once boiling, add tortellini to the pot. Reduce heat so that it gently simmers; cook for about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Stir in Cream
Mix in heavy cream and continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
Step 8: Add Spinach
Stir in fresh baby spinach if using, then season with salt & pepper according to taste.
Now you’re ready to serve up this delightful Italian sausage tortellini soup! Enjoy every bite of its creamy goodness!
How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Italian sausage tortellini soup is simple and can be enhanced with a few thoughtful touches. This delicious soup can stand alone, but pairing it with complementary items can elevate your meal.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top for added freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the soup for a rich, savory flavor.
- Croutons: Add crunchy croutons for texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy broth.
Accompaniments
- Breadsticks: Serve warm breadsticks on the side for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice; buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the soup.
- Salad: A light green salad can add a refreshing touch to balance the hearty soup.
Serving Style
- Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls for a cozy dining experience.
- Family Style: Serve in a large pot on the table, allowing guests to help themselves.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
To make your Italian sausage tortellini soup even better, consider these tips that enhance flavor and consistency.
- bold use quality sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor impact in your soup.
- bold sauté vegetables properly: Make sure to sauté onions and celery until they are soft to release their natural sweetness.
- bold use fresh tortellini: Opt for fresh refrigerated tortellini instead of frozen for a more tender texture.
- bold adjust seasoning: Taste your broth before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed to boost flavor without overpowering it.
- bold let it sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving can help meld the flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Italian sausage tortellini soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:
- bold Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese complements the richness of the soup.
- bold Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
- bold Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and goodness to your meal.
- bold Spinach Salad: Baby spinach mixed with nuts and fruit creates a light, nutritious side that balances out the heaviness of the soup.
- bold Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Crispy grilled cheese sandwiches provide comfort food vibes alongside your flavorful soup.
- bold Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and pickled vegetables offers variety and enhances an Italian theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian sausage tortellini soup, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the browning step: Properly browning the sausage enhances the flavor of the soup. Don’t rush this step; take your time to get a nice crust.
- Ignoring seasoning: A bland soup is disappointing. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and add them right before serving for perfect texture.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale spices or wilted vegetables affects flavor. Always opt for fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Not letting it simmer: Quick cooking can lead to underdeveloped flavors. Allow your soup to simmer gently to meld all the delicious ingredients together.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Italian sausage tortellini soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Italian sausage tortellini soup that may help clarify any doubts.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
How can I make this Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup healthier?
You can use low-fat cream or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version without sacrificing creaminess.
What type of tortellini should I use?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini works best, but you can also use frozen if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I add vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Adding carrots or bell peppers enhances nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onion and celery.
How do I store leftovers of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze them for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it with different veggies or types of pasta. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its creamy goodness on any chilly evening!
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in a bowl of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful fusion of hearty Italian sausage and cheesy tortellini, all enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or casual get-togethers, this dish is quick to prepare—ready in just 40 minutes! Packed with flavor from sautéed garlic and fresh spinach, it’s a comfort food that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. Whether served as a main course or paired with crusty bread, this one-pot wonder offers minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment. Elevate your next meal with this easy Italian soup that warms both the heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 2 sticks celery, chopped
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh baby spinach (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, sauté the sausage over medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the onion and celery for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in flour and garlic; cook for one minute.
- Slowly add chicken broth while stirring to dissolve the flour.
- Add diced tomatoes and the cooked sausage back into the pot; bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in tortellini; reduce heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Mix in heavy cream and spinach (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
