If you’re craving a cozy bowl of comfort that bursts with flavor and heartiness, the Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is your new go-to. This soup blends savory Italian sausage with tender tortellini and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a fragrant broth that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and tastes that warms you from the inside out, making it an ideal dish for any day when you want something truly special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this soup shine. Each component plays a crucial role—from the savory kick of Italian sausage to the creamy sweetness of butternut squash, creating layers of flavor and texture that you’ll love with every spoonful.
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil: For browning the sausage perfectly without sticking.
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage: Adds a rich, spicy flavor that forms the soup’s savory backbone.
- 2 large carrots (peeled and cut): Bring subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 stalks celery (sliced): Provides a crisp texture and aromatic base.
- 1 onion (diced): Adds depth and natural sweetness when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Gives a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- 2 cups butternut squash (cubed): Contributes a creamy texture and gentle sweetness.
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes (do not drain): Adds acidity and bright flavor to balance the richness.
- 6 cups chicken broth: The hearty liquid base that ties all flavors together.
- 1 tbsp thyme: Infuses earthiness and warmth into the broth.
- 1 tbsp oregano: Brings an herby, classic Italian note.
- 1 tbsp pepper: Adds a gentle spice that wakes up the palate.
- 1 (9 oz) bag tortellini: Tender, cheese-filled pasta that makes this soup extra satisfying.
- 1 1/2 cups spinach: Adds a fresh, green element that wilts beautifully into the broth.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. You want to get those lovely crispy edges that bring out the deep, savory flavor—the kind that makes the soup uniquely comforting from the very first bite.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the carrots, celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and cubed butternut squash. Sauté everything for about 3 to 5 minutes, just until the vegetables soften slightly and release their fragrant aromas. This step builds a wonderful foundation of flavor and texture that ensures your soup will taste like it’s been simmering all day.
Step 3: Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes, juice and all—this juicy addition gives the soup brightness and complexity. Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, and pepper, stir everything together, and bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for approximately 10 minutes to allow those flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Now it’s time for the star ingredient—add the tortellini to the pot. Continue to cook the soup for another 5 to 6 minutes until the pasta is tender and plump. The tortellini soak up the broth’s savory goodness, creating bites that are simply irresistible.
Step 5: Stir in the Spinach
After turning off the heat, gently stir in the fresh spinach. The residual warmth from the soup will wilt the leaves perfectly, adding a lovely splash of green and a subtle freshness that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese-filled pasta.
Step 6: Serve Warm and Cozy
Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and a few fresh parsley leaves. This Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is now ready for you to enjoy—comfort food at its absolute best.
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bowl with a little extra love by adding grated Parmesan cheese—its salty, nutty flavor is a perfect match. Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and herbaceous brightness, lifting the entire dish. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also lend a rich, silky finish.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic knots, perfect for soaking up every last drop of delicious broth. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the hearty richness of the soup without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls for a truly indulgent experience. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or chili flakes on top for extra texture and a subtle kick. Serving individual portions in mini soup crocks makes it a charming starter for dinner parties or cozy gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store your Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep nicely for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors even on busy days without having to cook from scratch.
Freezing
Because the tortellini can change texture upon freezing, it’s best to freeze the soup before adding the pasta. Freeze the broth, sausage, and vegetables separately in freezer-friendly containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and cook fresh tortellini directly in the reheated soup.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If your soup has been frozen without the tortellini, add fresh pasta at this point and cook until tender. This ensures the texture stays perfect every time.
FAQs
Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely! Using spicy Italian sausage will give the soup an extra kick, making it perfect if you enjoy bolder flavors. Feel free to adjust based on your heat preference.
Is it necessary to use butternut squash in the soup?
While butternut squash adds a lovely sweetness and creaminess, you can substitute it with sweet potatoes or even leave it out if you prefer. The soup will still be delicious but slightly different in flavor and texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip the meat altogether and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables or beans to keep the soup hearty and filling.
What type of tortellini works best in this recipe?
Cheese-filled tortellini are classic and complement the flavors well, but you can experiment with meat-filled or spinach tortellini for a twist. Just keep cooking times the same to achieve the perfect tenderness.
How thick or brothy is the soup?
This Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe has a nicely balanced broth that’s neither too thick nor too thin, perfect for spooning alongside tender pasta and vegetables. If you prefer it thicker, reduce the broth slightly or add a bit of cream at the end.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again. Its combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and wholesome vegetables makes it incredibly satisfying and easy to love. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself, give this soup a try—you won’t regret the cozy comfort and delightful flavors it brings to your table.
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Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for chilly days. It features ground Italian sausage, tender vegetables, flavorful herbs, and plump tortellini all simmered in a savory tomato and chicken broth base. With a touch of fresh spinach stirred in at the end, this soup combines rich protein with nutritious veggies for a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and delicious.
Ingredients
Meat and Protein
- 1 lb ground Italian sausage
Vegetables
- 2 large carrots, peeled and cut
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 1/2 cups spinach
Liquids
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 14 oz can diced tomatoes, do not drain
- 6 cups chicken broth
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 tbsp thyme
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 1 tbsp pepper
Pasta
- 1 (9 oz) bag tortellini
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it browns to develop crispy edges and deep flavor.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the peeled and chopped carrots, sliced celery, diced onion, minced garlic, and cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in thyme, oregano, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes to blend the flavors and cook the vegetables fully.
- Cook tortellini: Add the tortellini to the simmering soup and cook for 5–6 minutes, or until they are tender and plump.
- Add spinach: Turn off the heat and stir in the fresh spinach, letting it wilt in the warm broth for a minute.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls. Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm for a cozy and hearty meal.
Notes
- For a spicier soup, use Italian sausage with added red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- If using frozen tortellini, adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
- Grated Parmesan and fresh parsley add great flavor but are optional toppings.
