Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Introduction

There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup, especially as the weather turns crisp and cool. If you’re anything like me, you know that the best soups are the ones that not only warm your belly but also your heart. Enter my favorite Sausage and Tortellini Soup—a comforting dish that combines savory sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant veggies in a rich broth.

What makes this soup special? It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that come together in just one pot, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Imagine biting into soft, pillowy tortellini filled with cheese, surrounded by a hearty, flavorful broth that’s infused with the spices from the sausage. It’s like a big, cozy blanket in a bowl!

I’ll never forget the first time I made this soup. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty and satisfying. With just a few ingredients I had on hand, I whipped up this dish, and it quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s a staple in our home, especially during the fall and winter months. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or packing it for lunch the next day, this Sausage and Tortellini Soup will bring a smile to everyone’s face. So, grab your favorite soup pot, and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and just one pot to clean, this soup is perfect for those nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and cheesy tortellini creates a symphony of flavors that’ll make your taste buds dance. You’ll love how the spices from the sausage infuse the broth, making every spoonful a delight.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with both kids and adults. The tortellini is fun and flavorful, and the overall dish is filling and nutritious, ensuring everyone will leave the table satisfied.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Want to add more veggies? Go for it! Prefer a lighter broth? Simply adjust the liquids. This soup is versatile, making it a great canvas for your culinary creativity.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350 calories
• Protein: 18g, Carbohydrates: 34g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious Sausage and Tortellini Soup:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth (low-sodium is best)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 bag (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Why These Ingredients?

• Italian Sausage: Adds a rich, savory flavor that’s the backbone of this soup.
• Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onion bring sweetness and texture, while the spinach adds a nutritious green touch.
• Tortellini: This is the star of the dish! The cheese-filled pasta adds heartiness and creaminess.
• Chicken Broth: Forms the base of the soup, enhancing the overall flavor and richness.
• Seasoning: Italian seasoning brings warmth and depth to the dish, while fresh herbs at the end brighten everything up.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to whip up your Sausage and Tortellini Soup:

1. Prep Your Ingredients: Before you start cooking, chop your onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic and have your broth and tomatoes ready to go. Having everything prepped will make the cooking process much smoother!
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. Don’t worry if it gets a bit crispy; that’s where the flavor comes from!
3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.
4. Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (don’t drain it!). Stir well, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any delicious browned bits. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Tortellini: Once the soup is simmering, toss in the cheese tortellini. They’ll only need about 5-7 minutes to cook, so stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The tortellini is ready when they float to the top and are tender.
6. Stir in the Greens: When the tortellini is cooked, add the fresh spinach to the pot. Stir until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. This is the perfect time to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning—add salt, pepper, or even a dash of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat!
7. Serve It Up: Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like basil or parsley if you have them. You can serve it with crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me, it’s the best!

How to Serve

This Sausage and Tortellini Soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to take your meal to the next level:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Pair with a Salad: A simple side salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully.
• Add Extra Cheese: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to pile on more Parmesan or even some mozzarella for a cheesy finish!

Additional Tips

To ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the sausage adds depth and flavor to the soup. Make sure it’s well-cooked before adding the veggies.
2. Fresh vs. Frozen Tortellini: While fresh tortellini is fantastic, frozen works too. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
3. Store Leftovers Properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, and it’ll taste even better the next day!
4. Add More Veggies: Feel free to toss in any other vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or zucchini. Just chop them up and add them when you add the broth.
5. Reheating: When reheating, you might want to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out, as it can thicken in the fridge.

Recipe Variations

This Sausage and Tortellini Soup is so versatile! Here are a few variations to consider:

• Make it Vegetarian: Swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or add more veggies and beans to create a hearty vegetarian option. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy Version: For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. It’ll add a lovely richness to the soup.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the sausage. It’ll give the soup a nice, spicy kick!
• Different Pasta: If you don’t have tortellini on hand, any small pasta shape, like orzo or ditalini, will work great too. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider these serving suggestions:

• Side Dishes: Pair your soup with a fresh arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
• Wine Pairings: A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing red like Chianti can elevate your dining experience. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with lemon!
• For Kids: Serve the soup with fun shapes of grilled cheese sandwiches cut out with cookie cutters to make it more appealing for little ones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Just cook it according to the package instructions, adjusting the simmering time in the soup as needed. Typically, frozen tortellini may take a couple of extra minutes to cook compared to fresh.

2. What type of sausage is best for this soup?

Italian sausage is the classic choice for this soup, and you can use either mild or spicy, depending on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage can be great substitutes as well!

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen and meld together, making it even tastier when reheated. Just be aware that the tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you might want to add a little extra broth when reheating.

4. Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply substitute the tortellini with a gluten-free variety or another small pasta shape that is gluten-free. Ensure that the sausage and broth you choose are also gluten-free.

5. Can I freeze leftover soup?

Yes, you can freeze leftover Sausage and Tortellini Soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of broth to bring back the desired consistency.

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Conclusion

There you have it—my favorite Sausage and Tortellini Soup recipe that’s bound to become a beloved dish in your home. With its hearty ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s the perfect meal for any day of the week, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself.

I hope you enjoy making this soup as much as I do. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the memories you create around the table. So gather your loved ones, serve up a big bowl of this deliciousness, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings. Happy cooking!