This Mouthwatering Tortellini Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with tender cheese tortellini, savory sausage, and plenty of vegetables. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you need a delicious and satisfying meal for the whole family. The creamy, flavorful broth and pillowy tortellini make this soup irresistible.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove any excess grease from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Spinach
- Stir in the fresh baby spinach and tortellini. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Parmesan
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- Let the soup warm through for an additional 2-3 minutes without bringing it to a boil.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Sausage Choice: Use mild or hot Italian sausage based on your spice preference. You can also use ground turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Tortellini: Use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. If using frozen tortellini, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk.
Variations
- Vegetarian Tortellini Soup: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor.
- Chicken Tortellini Soup: Substitute the sausage with cooked, shredded chicken for a different protein option.
- Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup: Add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and extra fresh basil for a richer tomato flavor.
- Spicy Tortellini Soup: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Tortellini Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to add the tortellini just before serving to avoid overcooking. Store the soup (without tortellini) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, then reheat and add the tortellini.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Tortellini Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed.
3. Can I Freeze Tortellini Soup?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed. Freeze the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat the soup and add fresh tortellini.
4. What Can I Serve with Tortellini Soup?
This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple green salad to make a complete meal.
Mouthwatering Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With tender tortellini, savory sausage, and a creamy broth, it’s a one-pot meal that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or making a batch to share with friends, this tortellini soup is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of comfort!
