When you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s rich in flavor and packed with ingredients, Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish to make. Combining savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach in a flavorful broth, this soup is not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a gathering of friends, this recipe guarantees a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients for Sausage Tortellini Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 bag (9 oz) refrigerated tortellini
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Cook the Onion and Garlic
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. This will help to sauté the vegetables and enhance the flavors of the soup.
- Add the diced onion and cook it for about 5 minutes or until it becomes translucent. The aroma of the onion sautéing will start to fill the air, adding a savory base to the soup.
- Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning. This will release the garlic’s fragrance and flavor, further enriching the soup.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Add the Italian sausage (either mild or spicy, depending on your preference) to the pot. Break it apart using a spoon or spatula as it cooks.
- Cook the sausage until it is fully browned and cooked through, which should take about 7-8 minutes. This step is important because it adds a rich, meaty flavor to the soup. Stir occasionally to ensure the sausage cooks evenly.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
- Once the sausage is browned, pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir the ingredients together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Allow the soup to simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This will let the flavors meld together and deepen, creating a rich and savory broth.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
- Add the refrigerated tortellini to the pot and stir to combine. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Be sure not to overcook the pasta, as it should be tender but still hold its shape.
- Stir the tortellini occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
- Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender. The spinach will add a burst of color and freshness to the soup, balancing the richness of the sausage and broth.
Step 6: Season the Soup
- Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can add more if you want a stronger flavor, or keep it light for a subtle seasoning.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly into the hot soup, adding a creamy, savory finish to each bite.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a perfect balance of comforting and flavorful. The Italian sausage provides a savory, slightly spicy foundation, while the tortellini adds a delightful bite. The spinach not only enhances the soup’s color but also contributes a fresh taste that contrasts wonderfully with the richness of the broth. The addition of Parmesan cheese at the end takes this soup to the next level, offering an irresistible creamy finish.
Tips for the Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Customize the Sausage: If you prefer a less spicy soup, go with mild Italian sausage. If you like a little heat, opt for spicy sausage or even add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use Fresh Tortellini: While refrigerated tortellini works best for this recipe, you can also use frozen tortellini. Just be sure to cook it a little longer if using frozen.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of this soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just dice them and add them along with the onion.
- Leftovers: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Protein: ~20g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~6g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ideal dish for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a meal to impress your friends. With its bold flavors, hearty ingredients, and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. The combination of Italian sausage, tender tortellini, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese makes this soup a filling and comforting meal that everyone will love. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delicious, satisfying soup!
