Dutch Oven Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a big pot of hearty soup on a chilly day, and this Dutch Oven Tortellini Soup with Sausage is one of my favorites. It’s warm, cozy, and full of rich flavors, from the savory sausage to the creamy broth and tender tortellini. Plus, everything cooks together in one pot, which makes cleanup a breeze – perfect for those of us who love eating more than dishwashing!

I stumbled upon this recipe on one of those “what’s-in-my-fridge” days, and it’s been a keeper ever since. The combination of sausage, tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini creates a delightful balance of flavors that feels both indulgent and comforting. And honestly, it just keeps getting better as it simmers in the Dutch oven, filling the kitchen with the most delicious aromas.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is a winner. It’s filling, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to cooking. So, let’s get cozy, grab our Dutch oven, and make some magic with this hearty tortellini soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Dutch Oven Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a must-try for so many reasons:

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Everything comes together in one Dutch oven, so there’s minimal cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeling cozy but don’t want a lot of fuss.
• Family-Friendly: The cheesy tortellini and savory sausage are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Rich and Creamy: The creamy base, seasoned to perfection, combined with tender tortellini, is the ultimate comfort food.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite vegetables or use turkey sausage instead of pork for a lighter twist.
• Flavorful and Hearty: With aromatic herbs, spices, and a tomato-based broth, each bite is layered with flavor, making this soup irresistible.

The texture of the tender tortellini, combined with the crunch of the vegetables and the juicy sausage, gives it an incredible depth of flavor. It’s the perfect go-to meal when you want something that feels gourmet but is secretly easy to pull off.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes (Prep: 10 minutes, Cook: 25-30 minutes)
• Servings: Serves 6
• Nutrition: Calories per serving: 450, Protein: 18g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Freshly grated Parmesan (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Sausage

• In a large Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If the sausage releases a lot of fat, you can drain some of it, but leave a bit in the pot for extra flavor.

Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and carrot to the Dutch oven. Sauté the vegetables with the sausage until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. These vegetables will create a flavorful base for the soup and add a nice variety of textures.

Add Broth and Tomatoes

• Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine everything, then add the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Simmer

• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and brings out the richness in the broth.

Add the Tortellini

• Add the tortellini to the pot and stir to combine. If you’re using fresh tortellini, it should cook in about 5 minutes; if using frozen, it may take a few extra minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the tortellini doesn’t stick to the bottom.

Finish with Cream and Spinach

• Once the tortellini is cooked and tender, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, which will give the soup its creamy texture. Then, add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve and Enjoy!

• Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. For an extra touch, add a side of warm crusty bread for dipping.

How to Serve

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• On Its Own: Ladle a generous portion into bowls and enjoy with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
• With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up the delicious broth.
• With a Salad: Pair with a light side salad, like a Caesar or simple arugula salad, for a balanced meal.
• Family-Style: Serve directly from the Dutch oven in the center of the table, and let everyone help themselves!

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Sausage: Use Italian sausage for that perfect balance of flavor. For a lighter option, go for turkey or chicken sausage.
2. Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini, as it cooks quickly and can become mushy if left in the broth too long.
3. Make It Creamy: If you prefer a richer soup, add an extra splash of cream or even a bit of grated cheese into the broth for added depth.
4. Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick.
5. Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a bit more broth or cream, as the tortellini will absorb some of the liquid.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage with mushrooms or another meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and check that your sausage is gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage for a bit of heat.
• Extra Veggies: Bulk up the soup with extra vegetables like zucchini, kale, or even green beans.
• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh basil or thyme for a different herb flavor. Each will add a unique twist to the soup.

Serving Suggestions

This Dutch Oven Tortellini Soup pairs beautifully with several sides and beverages:

• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables, buttery garlic bread, or a light mixed green salad.
• Kid-Friendly Option: If you’re serving little ones, try offering soft rolls or pita bread for dipping.
• Non-Alcoholic Pairing: Serve with a sparkling lemonade or a light apple cider for a refreshing balance.

Freezing and Storage

This soup is great for leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storage: Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Note that the tortellini may soak up more liquid over time, so you may want to add extra broth or cream when reheating.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the tortellini, as pasta tends to lose its texture after being frozen. Prepare the soup through the simmering step, then freeze in an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove, add the tortellini, and cook until tender.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Special Equipment

• Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven is perfect for this recipe, as it provides even heat distribution and can handle simmering and sautéing in one pot.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this soup without a Dutch oven?
Absolutely! If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a large, heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan. Just ensure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe! It may just take a few extra minutes to cook. Keep an eye on it as it simmers, and taste-test to check for tenderness.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
This soup can be made ahead, but keep in mind that the tortellini may soak up more broth over time. If you’re prepping it for later, consider adding the tortellini right before serving or keeping it separate and stirring it in when reheating.

Q: How can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make this soup dairy-free, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free milk. Just be mindful of the flavor differences. You may also want to use a dairy-free tortellini, though some pasta varieties are already dairy-free.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
If you want to freeze this soup, it’s best to do so before adding the tortellini and cream. Simply thaw and reheat the soup, then add the tortellini and cream when serving.

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Conclusion

This Dutch Oven Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, packed with rich flavors, and perfectly comforting for those cooler days. Plus, with the hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and creamy broth, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.

Whether you’re making this for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or as part of your meal prep for the week, this soup is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. The simplicity of using a single pot keeps it fuss-free, and the endless customization options mean you can tweak it to suit your tastes perfectly.

So grab your Dutch oven, set aside about 30 minutes, and enjoy the comfort and flavor of this tortellini soup. Once you’ve tried it, it might just become one of your new favorite recipes – one you’ll come back to again and again whenever you need a little extra warmth and joy in a bowl. Happy cooking!