There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of sausage tortellini soup. Picture this: rich, savory broth filled with tender tortellini and bursts of flavor from the sausage, all nestled together like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making your stomach growl louder than an angry bear. You can’t help but imagine how each spoonful will wrap you in warmth and satisfaction, making it the perfect dish for family gatherings or laid-back weeknight dinners.
I remember the first time I made sausage tortellini soup; it was a cold winter night, and I had invited friends over for dinner. As we gathered around the table, laughter filled the air while bowls of this delicious creation disappeared faster than you can say “seconds, please.” It’s one of those recipes that brings people together, evoking memories and sparking joy with every flavorful bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This sausage tortellini soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Bursting with flavors from savory sausage and fresh herbs, it’s a delightful treat for your taste buds
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing in any bowl
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch
I vividly recall the sheer delight on my friends’ faces as they savored each spoonful of this hearty soup.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Italian Sausage: Use either sweet or spicy sausage based on your preference; both bring amazing flavor to the soup.
Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works well; choose cheese-filled for creaminess or meat-filled for added heartiness.
Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still delivering great depth of flavor.
Fresh Spinach: Adding spinach at the end brightens the soup and provides a nutritional boost without overpowering flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves add aromatic richness; minced garlic releases oils that enhance the overall taste.
Onion: A diced yellow onion sweats beautifully when sautéed, adding sweetness to balance savory notes.
Carrots: Sliced carrots infuse sweetness and color while providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add acidity and brightness; choose fire-roasted for extra smokiness if desired.
Herbs (Basil & Oregano): Fresh herbs elevate flavor profiles; dried herbs work too if fresh isn’t available.
Pepper & Salt: Adjust seasoning based on personal preference; start with a pinch and build from there!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Begin by heating up a large pot over medium heat and add in your Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break apart the sausage into crumbles as it cooks until browned and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. The sizzling sound is music to any home cook’s ears!
Next, toss in diced onion and sliced carrots right into that pot of happiness. Stir occasionally until both are softened and translucent—this typically takes around 3-4 minutes. The combination of aromas fills your kitchen with an inviting scent that makes everyone wander in.
Once your veggies are looking lovely, add minced garlic along with dried oregano and basil into the mix. Stir everything together until you can smell that garlicky goodness wafting through the air—about 1 minute will be enough time to unleash those flavors.
Now pour in vegetable broth along with diced tomatoes (juice included) into your pot. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to let it simmer away peacefully for about 10 minutes—this allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.
Add in your tortellini now! Cook according to package instructions—usually around 3-5 minutes—until they float like little pasta boats on top of bubbling broth. As you stir gently, watch them dance around merrily.
Finally, toss in handfuls of fresh spinach just before serving. Allow them to wilt slightly—about 1-2 minutes should suffice—as their vibrant green color adds freshness while boosting nutrition without overpowering other flavors.
Serve hot bowls of this soul-warming soup garnished with freshly cracked pepper or even some grated Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy! Your family will be asking for seconds before they’ve even finished their first bowl!
You Must Know
- This sausage tortellini soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it warms the soul on chilly nights
- Plus, it’s quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or unexpected guests
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage, then add garlic and onion for flavor. Next, toss in broth and tortellini while letting everything simmer together for that perfect cozy finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or add spinach for extra greens. You can also play with herbs like basil or oregano to elevate the flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove to maintain that creamy goodness without overcooking.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh tortellini for a delightful texture and flavor contrast against the hearty sausage
- Don’t skip on simmering; this melds all the flavors beautifully
- A splash of cream at the end takes it to the next level of deliciousness!
My best friend once tried this soup at my housewarming party and declared it “a reason to move in.” That’s when I knew I had a winner!
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini for this sausage tortellini soup?
Absolutely! Just add them directly into the simmering broth without thawing first.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Swap sausage for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
What sides pair well with sausage tortellini soup?
A crisp salad or crusty bread complements this soup perfectly, adding texture and freshness.
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Savor the warmth of homemade sausage tortellini soup, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This hearty dish features tender tortellini nestled in a rich, savory broth infused with flavorful Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and aromatic herbs. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this soup will have your family coming back for seconds. Enjoy each comforting spoonful as you create lasting memories around the dinner table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen tortellini
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage for about 5-7 minutes until crumbled and fragrant.
- Add diced onion and sliced carrots; sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, oregano, and basil; cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with juice; bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add tortellini; cook according to package instructions (typically 3-5 minutes) until they float.
- Stir in fresh spinach just before serving; allow it to wilt for about 1-2 minutes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
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