Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a comforting dish that combines savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a creamy tomato broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight meal. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this soup brings warmth and rich flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe has minimal prep time and cooks in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of Italian sausage and cheesy tortellini creates a deliciously satisfying bowl of goodness.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding vegetables or using different types of broth depending on your preferences.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a rich, velvety feel that makes every spoonful delightful.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this soup will impress your guests.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Italian sausage tortellini soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Perfect for cooking large quantities of soup without spilling.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like onions and celery.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and easy cutting of vegetables and sausage.

Ingredients

This Italian sausage tortellini soup recipe is loaded with flavorful sausage and cheesy pasta in an irresistible creamy tomato broth. It has very little prep time and can be on your table in just 40 minutes!

Ingredients:
– 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
– 1/2 medium onion (chopped finely)
– 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 3-4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 2 generous cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
– 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
– 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach (optional)
– Salt & pepper (to taste)

How to Make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Add the sausage meat to a large soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes until the sausage is browned all over.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of fat in the pot (drain any excess). Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Add Flour and Garlic

Stir in the flour and minced garlic. Cook for one minute while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring until the flour dissolves completely. Next, add the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices and Italian seasoning to the pot. Return the browned sausage back into the mixture. Increase heat to high until it reaches a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add Tortellini

Once boiling, add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Reduce heat to gently simmer for approximately five minutes or until tortellini is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream and let it cook for another five minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Add Spinach

Finally, fold in fresh spinach if using, then season with salt & pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Italian sausage tortellini soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Serving Italian sausage tortellini soup is an enjoyable experience that can be tailored to suit your taste. Whether you want it as a main dish or as part of a larger spread, there are many ways to enhance this delicious soup.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Freshly baked garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy broth and adds a delightful crunch.

Top with Parmesan Cheese

• A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and adds a savory touch to each bowl.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Serve with Salad

• A side salad, like a classic Caesar or mixed greens, complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Include Crusty Breadrolls

• Offer warm, crusty rolls for dipping into the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can elevate the overall flavor profile.

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How to Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Perfecting your Italian sausage tortellini soup can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you create a delicious, comforting bowl every time.

• Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can choose between spicy or sweet based on your preference.

• Don’t Skip Sautéing Vegetables: Sautéing the onion and celery enhances their flavors and provides a solid base for your soup.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to match your desired flavor level.

• Stir in Spinach at the End: Adding spinach towards the end keeps it vibrant and prevents it from wilting too much.

• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld the flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Italian sausage tortellini soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this savory dish nicely.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up the creamy broth. Toasted and buttery, it’s always a favorite.

2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic glaze make for a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the soup.

4. Bruschetta: Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, these toasted slices bring brightness and texture to your meal.

5. Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese are an excellent choice for dipping into your hot bowl of soup.

6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy and colorful addition to your meal, balancing out its richness.

7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad offers a nice contrast to the warm soup while adding heartiness to your dinner spread.

8. Antipasto Platter: Serve an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables for a flavorful appetizer option that sets the tone for an Italian-themed meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Italian sausage tortellini soup can be simple, but small errors can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the browning step – Failing to brown the sausage adds depth of flavor. Always sauté until browned for a richer taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Incorrect measurements can affect the soup’s consistency. Use proper measuring tools for precise results.
• Adding cream too early – If you add cream too soon, it may curdle. Wait until just before serving to stir in the cream.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Tasting before serving is key. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the best flavor.
• Using low-quality tomatoes – The type of tomatoes can significantly impact flavor. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for a robust broth.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in individual portions or family-sized containers.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Italian sausage tortellini soup.

Can I make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk if you prefer a lighter version of the soup.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Italian sausage tortellini soup is an incredible blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, and you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try and enjoy a heartwarming bowl that’s sure to impress!