This tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with tasty tortellini, fresh veggies, and a light broth, it’s super comforting and perfect for chilly days.
I can’t resist a bowl of this soup—it’s like a cuddle from the inside! 🥰 Plus, it’s so quick to make, you can enjoy it on a busy weeknight. Stir, simmer, slurp, and smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I use either mild or spicy sausage based on my mood. If you’d prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage works well too. For a vegetarian twist, try using mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is the classic choice, but you can substitute with spinach or meat-filled varieties. If tortellini isn’t available, any small pasta like shells or fagioli can work in this soup.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap with half-and-half or milk. Coconut milk can be used for a nondairy alternative; it adds a slight sweetness!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrition. If you’re out, kale or Swiss chard can be good substitutes. Just chop them smaller before adding!
How Do I Make Sure the Sausage is Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the sausage properly ensures it’s flavorful and safe to eat. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Start by heating your pot and adding the olive oil. This helps brown the sausage nicely.
- Cook the sausage until it’s browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. This usually takes around 6-8 minutes. Don’t rush it!
- Make sure there’s no pink left in the middle when you break a piece apart.
By taking your time, you’ll build a rich flavor base for your soup. Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for added flavor and color)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (9-12 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Crusty toasted bread or garlic bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep for this hearty soup will take about 10 minutes, and cooking will take around 15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. Quick and simple! Perfect for a cozy dinner in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Sausage:
In a large pot over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
2. Adding the Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté it along with the sausage until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you smell that delicious garlic scent!
3. Building the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes if you’re using them for extra flavor. Stir in the Italian seasoning, and then bring everything to a boil. Listen for that burbling sound—it means we’re on the right track!
4. Cooking the Tortellini:
Reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they are tender and cooked through. It’ll be hard to resist smelling that deliciousness coming from your pot!
5. Finishing Touches:
Now for the fun part! Stir in the cream and chopped spinach, letting it simmer for just another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is creamy. Always taste to see if it needs a little salt and pepper before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle your creamy sausage tortellini soup into bowls. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for that cheesy finish! Serve with crusty toasted bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Enjoy every warm and comforting spoonful of this delightful soup! You deserve it!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want a vegetarian version, try substituting with mushrooms or plant-based sausage to maintain that hearty texture.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier! Just remember to reheat gently on the stove to keep the tortellini from getting mushy.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute. Just be aware that this might give your soup a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious!
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative! You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini for additional veggies. Just make sure to chop them small and add them early in the cooking process so they soften nicely.