Sausage Tortellini Soup
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Sausage Tortellini Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that has a special place in my kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, making it perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something comforting yet satisfying. Whether you’re racing home after a long day or gathering with family on the weekend, this soup shines as a one-pot wonder, packed with flavor and texture. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, so it’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine a bowl filled with robust Italian flavors—savory sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant spinach. This Sausage Tortellini Soup is not just about taste; it offers so many benefits. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and, best of all, it’s a meal that even the picky eaters in your family will approve of. Additionally, this dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for a range of additions based on what you have on hand.
“This soup is now my go-to for family dinners! Easy, delicious, and everyone loves it!” – A satisfied home chef
Preparing Sausage Tortellini Soup
Making Sausage Tortellini Soup is straightforward and breezy—perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. In this recipe, we’ll be combining a handful of ingredients and letting them develop into a symphony of flavor. The key is to ensure your sausage is browned beautifully before adding the rest of the ingredients, as this builds a rich foundation for the soup.
You’ll first sauté your onions, letting them soften; then, it’s all about adding layers of flavor with garlic, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Finally, we’ll introduce the tortellini and a handful of spinach for a nutritious finish.
What You’ll Need
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 9-ounce package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh spinach (packed)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Feel free to swap out the Italian sausage for ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter option. Also, if spinach isn’t your favorite, kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s softened.
- Stir in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, then add the oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring this mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing those flavors to marry.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove from heat, stir in the spinach, cover the pot, and let it sit for 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and savor every delicious spoonful!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This soup is best when served steaming hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. You can also drizzle a little balsamic glaze over your salad for that perfect touch of acidity to balance the richness of the soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep left-over sausage tortellini soup fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. If you want to freeze the soup, do so before adding the tortellini and spinach. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight, add the tortellini, and simmer until everything is warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- If you prefer a thicker soup, consider blending a portion of it once it’s cooked to create a creamier texture.
- Always check for seasoning before serving—taste and adjust your salt and pepper accordingly.
- For meal prep, you can chop your veggies and store them in advance for a quicker cooking process.
Creative Twists
There are many ways to change up this soup and make it your own. Try adding a splash of white wine just after browning the sausage for added depth of flavor. You could also throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or switch out the cheese tortellini for a different kind of pasta, like mini shells or spirals.
FAQs
What is the prep time for this soup?
Prep time is around 15 minutes, while the total cooking time can take up to 40 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen tortellini directly to the pot, and adjust cooking time slightly, as it may take a minute or two longer to become tender.
How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Is there a way to make this vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Sausage Tortellini Soup is truly a delightful dish that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again. Its ease of preparation, comforting flavors, and ability to satisfy even the largest appetites make it a must-try. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy creating this delicious bowl of goodness in your kitchen!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s softened.
- Stir in the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, then add the oregano, basil, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well and bring this mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing those flavors to marry.
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook for about 4-6 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove from heat, stir in the spinach, cover the pot, and let it sit for 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and savor every delicious spoonful!
