Name: Hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed); 1 small yellow onion, diced; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 cups water; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few meals are as satisfying as a warm bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup. This delightful dish perfectly balances rich flavors and comforting textures while remaining easy to prepare—a true win for busy families. With just one pot and a handful of ingredients, this savory soup makes for an effortless yet delicious dinner, ideal for whipping up after a long day. The blend of Italian sausage, creamy cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach combines to create a soup that not only warms the soul but also tantalizes the taste buds.

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is not just about flavors; it’s about convenience as well. In under 40 minutes, you can have a hearty meal that your entire family will love. Whether you’re seeking comfort food on a cold evening or looking for a simple recipe to impress your guests, this soup hits the mark every time. Plus, the leftovers taste just as great, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. So, grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Quick and Easy: Made in one pot within 40 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight.
Hearty and Filling: The blend of sausage and cheese tortellini ensures a filling meal that warms you up.
Versatile: You can adjust spice levels and even add vegetables to suit your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Easy to store for leftovers, this soup tastes just as wonderful the next day.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making your Sausage Tortellini Soup, preparing your kitchen can streamline the cooking process significantly. Start by gathering your ingredients, which include Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach. A large Dutch oven or a sturdy soup pot is essential for even cooking and for accommodating every ingredient comfortably.

Make sure to have your utensils on hand: a cooking spoon for stirring, a knife for chopping, and a cutting board for prepping your vegetables. Pre-measuring your ingredients, such as the broth and tomatoes, can save time and ensure that everything flows smoothly while cooking. Most importantly, don’t forget to choose the right heat level! A medium-high setting will help brown the sausage evenly before adding in the other flavors.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 small yellow onion, diced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups water
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, crumble the Italian sausage into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and stir it as it cooks. Aim for a golden brown color while ensuring it’s fully cooked through, usually within 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, consider draining some off to avoid an overly oily soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

If needed, drizzle in a bit of olive oil before adding the diced onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes. You can then add the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking everything together for about 30 seconds. This little step is crucial, as it deepens the flavor profile of the soup.

Step 3: Combine the Broth

Next, pour in your chicken broth and water, followed by the can of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, adjusting these to suit your spice preference. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Stir everything thoroughly and bring the soup to a boil, letting the ingredients marry beautifully.

Step 4: Let It Simmer

Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the soup to cook for about 10-15 minutes. This simmering phase is essential for blending the flavors so that every spoonful bursts with taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can customize this step with additional herbs or spices of your choice!

Step 5: Add the Tortellini

Once the soup has simmered, it’s time to incorporate the star of the show: the cheese tortellini! Stir it into the pot and cook according to the package instructions—typically around 5-7 minutes. This step will transform your delicious broth into a hearty meal!

Step 6: Final Touch with Spinach

Last but not least, add in the fresh spinach. Stir it into the soup just until it wilts—a process that should take only 1-2 minutes. Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color but also infuses your soup with nutrients and a slightly earthy flavor.

Variations

Protein: Substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or kale for extra health benefits.
Spices: For a Mediterranean twist, include fresh basil or rosemary in addition to Italian seasoning.

Cooking Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water slightly or add more tortellini.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan for added flavor and presentation.

Tips

Prep your vegetables ahead of time to speed up the cooking process.
If you have leftover soup, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
Protein: 20 grams
Sodium: 800 mg

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well! Just increase the cooking time according to package instructions.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and load up on more veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I do if I want it spicier?

If you like it spicy, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I store leftovers? How long do they last?

Yes, store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or water to loosen it up.

Conclusion

In just under 40 minutes, you can whip up this heartwarming Sausage Tortellini Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Its combination of flavorful ingredients and ease of preparation makes it a go-to meal for any household. We hope you find joy in creating this dish as much as you enjoy sharing it with friends and family! Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations that suit your taste, and feel free to leave a comment below sharing your experience or any personal twists you added to the recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your delightful bowl of comfort!