When the chilly evenings of fall start rolling in, nothing beats the warmth of a hearty soup. I found myself craving something comforting and satisfying, which is when I stumbled upon this Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup. With the fragrance of garlic mingling with the rich aroma of Italian sausage filling my kitchen, it felt like a big, warm hug in a bowl.
This soup is not just a feast for the senses; it’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking only about 20 minutes from start to finish. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and just the right amount of spice, it’s the perfect antidote to your fast-food fatigue. Imagine cozying up with a steaming bowl on a busy weeknight or serving it at your next gathering; it’s bound to impress! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your home.
Why is Tortellini Soup a must-try?
Heartwarming Comfort: This Tortellini Soup offers a delightful embrace, perfect for cozy evenings.
Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can enjoy a homemade meal.
Flavor-Packed: The savory Italian sausage and fresh herbs create a rich flavor profile that elevates every spoonful.
One-Pot Wonder: With all ingredients simmered together, cleanup is a breeze—ideal for busy weeknights!
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve it at gatherings or dinner parties, and watch it disappear—it’s a hit with everyone!
Versatile: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins for a personal touch; this recipe is happily adaptable!
This easy one-pot meal is not only delicious but also a great way to break free from the fast-food routine.
Tortellini Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Italian turkey sausage links – Choose turkey for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
• Medium onion – Chopped onion adds a sweet base for the soup’s flavor.
• Garlic cloves – Minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
• Reduced-sodium chicken broth – Using reduced-sodium broth helps keep the soup light and tasty.
• Water – Balances the broth for the perfect soup consistency.
• Diced tomatoes – These add acidity and a burst of freshness to the soup.
For the Tortellini and Greens
• Refrigerated cheese tortellini – This delicious pasta adds a heartiness to your Tortellini Soup.
• Fresh baby spinach – Coarsely chopped spinach introduces a nutrient boost and vibrant color.
For the Seasoning
• Minced fresh basil – Adds a fragrant herbal note; substitute dried basil if needed.
• Pepper – Just a pinch enhances the overall flavor balance.
• Crushed red pepper flakes – A dash introduces warmth and spice without overwhelming the other flavors.
Optional Garnish
• Shredded Parmesan cheese – A sprinkle on top enriches your soup with creamy, salty goodness.
Now you’re ready to gather these delightful ingredients and create a soul-warming pot of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup!
How to Make Tortellini Soup
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Crumble and Cook: Start by crumbling the Italian turkey sausage into a Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat. Stir it all together until the meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
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Add Garlic: Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute longer, stirring continuously. This will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma!
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Stir in Liquids: Pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, water, and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Add Tortellini: Stir in the cheese tortellini. Return the soup to a boil, then cook for 5-8 minutes or until the tortellini are almost tender, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
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Incorporate Greens and Spice: Reduce the heat, and add the coarsely chopped spinach, minced basil, pepper, and a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tortellini are tender.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, top each serving with a sprinkle of shredded Parmesan cheese for that extra creaminess!
Optional: Add a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Tortellini Soup make-ahead options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on weeknights! You can prepare the soup base—Italian sausage, onion, and garlic—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook as directed, allowing it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container to refrigerate. The tortellini and spinach can be added just before serving, so they maintain their texture and freshness. To finish, bring the prepped soup base to a boil and add the tortellini and spinach; it will be just as delicious and comforting as if made right before serving! Enjoy a warm bowl of your homemade Tortellini Soup with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Tortellini Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Tortellini Soup in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, ensuring you have a warm meal ready when you need it.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Avoid Overcooking: If you’re freezing the soup, you may want to undercook the tortellini slightly to prevent them from becoming too soft when reheated.
What to Serve with Tortellini Soup?
Cozy up your dinner table with complementary dishes that enhance the heartwarming experience of this delightful soup.
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Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect vehicle for soaking up the delicious broth, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible next to savory soup.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm, cheesy breadsticks bring an indulgent touch that pairs flawlessly with each spoonful of rich tortellini soup.
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Parmesan Risotto: A creamy, comforting side, risotto elevates the dining experience with its luxurious texture and flavor.
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Sangria: A refreshing glass of sangria adds a bright fruity note to your meal, enhancing the flavors of the sausage and tomatoes.
Imagine sharing this comforting feast with family or friends, as laughter and good conversation swirl around your table. Each dish invites you to come together and savor the moment!
Tortellini Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to make this Tortellini Soup your own by experimenting with these exciting twists!
- Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with a firm tofu or a variety of beans for a hearty plant-based option. You won’t miss the meat!
- Gluten-Free: Swap cheese tortellini with gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs without sacrificing flavor and texture. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a spoonful of sriracha for an added spice level that’s delightful on a chilly night. Feel the warmth with every bite!
- Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving for a rich, creamy finish that elevates the soup. It’s like a warm hug in every bowl!
- Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the spinach for more color, flavor, and nutrients. Who says soup can’t be vibrant and healthy?
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with flavors by adding fresh parsley or thyme in place of basil for a different herbal profile that brightens up the soup. Nature’s best flavors await you!
- Cheesy Explosion: Mix in additional cheeses like ricotta or mozzarella for a cheesier experience that pairs perfectly with the tortellini. It’s every cheese lover’s dream!
- Pasta Variety: Try different types of pasta like small shells or orzo if tortellini isn’t available; each pasta offers a unique twist! Simple substitutions can lead to delightful surprises!
Expert Tips for Tortellini Soup
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Soften Your Sausage: Ensure the turkey sausage is crumbled well and cooked through to avoid chewy bites in your Tortellini Soup.
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Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, opt for fresh spinach and high-quality cheese tortellini. Avoid overcooking the spinach for vibrant color and nutrients.
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Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste. Start with a small dash and add more if you prefer a spicier soup.
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Consistent Simmer: Keep stirring the soup occasionally after adding tortellini to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
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Leftovers Love: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Tortellini Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Italian sausage for my Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! Opt for quality Italian turkey sausage links to keep your dish flavorful without being overly greasy. Look for sausage with visible herbs and spices on the label for a robust flavor. The fresher, the better!
How long can I store leftover Tortellini Soup in the fridge?
You can store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s great to know that you have a delicious, hearty meal ready to go whenever you’re in need!
Can I freeze Tortellini Soup? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Make sure to leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion during freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and warm it on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through.
What should I do if my Spinach wilts too much in the Tortellini Soup?
If your spinach wilts too much, don’t worry! In future batches, add the spinach a minute or two before the soup finishes cooking instead of at the end. This way, you’ll preserve a bit more texture and color! If this happens, simply stir it into the soup and enjoy the well-blended flavors.
Is this Tortellini Soup safe for people with allergies?
If you or someone you serve has allergies, always check the ingredient labels carefully. The soup contains gluten from the tortellini and may have dairy if you use Parmesan cheese. You can create a gluten-free version by substituting with gluten-free tortellini and ensuring all other ingredients are allergy-friendly.
Can I add more vegetables to my Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! The more, the merrier! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the sausage and onion at the beginning for the best results.
Cozy Italian Tortellini Soup to Warm Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Crumble the Italian turkey sausage into a Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and let it cook for 1 minute longer, stirring continuously.
- Pour in the reduced-sodium chicken broth, water, and undrained diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the cheese tortellini. Return to a boil, then cook for 5-8 minutes or until the tortellini are almost tender.
- Reduce the heat, and add the coarsely chopped spinach, minced basil, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded Parmesan cheese if desired.