This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a cozy delight! Packed with tender tortellini, savory sausage, and a rich creamy broth, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
If you’re like me, you’ll want to make this on chilly days when comfort food is essential. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’re all set for a happy meal! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or mild according to your taste. If you’re looking to cut fat or calories, use turkey sausage instead. For a vegetarian option, you could use plant-based sausage or skip the meat altogether and add more veggies.
Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth adds flavor to the soup. You can substitute vegetable broth for a lighter version or if you’re vegetarian. Homemade broth is fantastic if you have it on hand!
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup rich and creamy. If you want a lighter soup, substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but keep in mind it won’t be as creamy. Coconut milk works too for a dairy-free option.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds nutrition and color to the soup. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives. Just make sure to cook them long enough to get soft.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Getting deep, delicious flavors from your soup requires a few steps to follow. Start by browning the sausage well; this adds a ton of flavor. Next, make sure to let your onions and vegetables soften before adding broth for the best taste.
- Cook sausage in the pot first until browned, then remove it to keep the flavors trapped in the rendered fat.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until they’re softened and fragrant—this is known as a flavor base.
- Don’t rush adding the garlic; cook it just until fragrant to avoid burning.
Following these steps can help you create a richer, more satisfying soup!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (spicy or mild, removed from casings)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz / 400g) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook, for a total time of around 40-45 minutes. It’s quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, but leave the delicious rendered fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter!
4. Bring in the Sausage and Broth:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Enjoy the lovely aroma filling your kitchen!
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Once boiling, add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender.
6. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, and Italian seasoning. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls. If you like, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of your delicious sausage tortellini soup!
Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen tortellini! Just increase the cooking time slightly—check the package instructions for the specific cooking time for frozen tortellini, usually about 1-2 minutes longer than fresh.
Substitutions for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking to lighten up the soup, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a less-rich option. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or almond milk, though the flavor will change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any of your favorite veggies, such as diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to sauté them along with the onion, carrots, and celery to enhance their flavor!