Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a heartwarming dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. In just 40 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that everyone will love. The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach creates a comforting bowl of goodness that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of Italian sausage and spices ensures every spoonful is bursting with taste.
• Creamy Delight: The addition of heavy cream creates a rich and satisfying broth that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding seasonal vegetables or using different types of tortellini.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it an ideal choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking this Italian sausage tortellini soup straightforward and enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: Perfect for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching the pot’s surface, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
• Chopping board: Provides a safe surface to chop your vegetables efficiently.

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!

Main Ingredients

• 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped finely)
• 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
• 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 7-10 minutes, or until the sausage is browned all over.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

Take the sausage out of the pot and set it aside on a paper towel lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of the fat in the pot (drain any excess). Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Base

Add the flour and garlic to the pot. Cook for one minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring until the flour dissolves completely.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the canned tomatoes along with their juices, Italian seasoning, and return the browned sausage back into the pot. Increase heat to high and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add Tortellini

Once boiling, add in the tortellini. Reduce heat to let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until cooked through.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and continue cooking for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Finish with Spinach

Finally, stir in fresh spinach if desired. Season with salt & pepper to taste before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Italian sausage tortellini soup!

How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Italian sausage tortellini soup is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or elevate your meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the rich broth.
• Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread adds a flavorful twist and complements the creamy soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor and richness.
• Mozzarella – Melting mozzarella cheese over the soup creates a gooey, delicious topping.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Basil – Sprinkle chopped basil leaves for a pop of freshness and color.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a nice touch and enhances the visual appeal.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup with its tangy dressing.
• Mixed Green Salad – Lighten up your meal with a refreshing mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.

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How to Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Italian sausage tortellini soup is as delicious as possible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage to enhance flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente – Follow package instructions closely to prevent overcooking the tortellini.
• Add Spinach at the End – Stir in spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and fresh.
• Let It Rest – Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian sausage tortellini soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and flavor.
2. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping into the soup.
3. Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring brightness to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted veggies offers a healthy, colorful complement to the soup.
5. Antipasto Platter – An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats pairs well with the heartiness of the soup.
6. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Classic grilled cheese sandwiches provide comfort alongside each bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Italian sausage tortellini soup, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the sausage properly can lead to a lack of flavor. Always brown the sausage until it’s well-cooked for a richer taste.
• Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality chicken broth can dull the soup’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality or homemade broth for the best results.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can cause it to become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and add it at the right time.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in bland soup. Always check and tweak salt, pepper, and herbs before serving.
• Not adding enough vegetables: Skipping vegetables like spinach diminishes nutrition and flavor. Incorporate fresh greens or other veggies for added health benefits.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil; heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Italian sausage tortellini soup:

What is Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Italian sausage tortellini soup is a hearty dish made with flavorful sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy tomato broth.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

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

How do I store leftover Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables or change up the seasonings based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Italian sausage tortellini soup is not only delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, this comforting dish is sure to please everyone at your table!