Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a comforting dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. With its hearty blend of savory sausage and cheesy tortellini in a creamy tomato broth, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal in just 40 minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a warm bowl of soup ready in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh vegetables creates a rich and satisfying taste.
- Comforting Meal: This soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something cozy and filling.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside a salad for a complete meal.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to personalize the soup.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything at hand will make preparing your Italian sausage tortellini soup easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chopping board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly and accommodating the volume of the soup.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring all flavors meld together beautifully.
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!
For the Soup
- 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: Sauté 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 the 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: Add Flour and Garlic
Add the flour and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about one minute, stirring constantly to combine.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring until the flour has completely dissolved into the mixture.
Step 5: Add Tomatoes and Sausage
Add the canned tomatoes along with their juices and Italian seasoning to the pot. Return the cooked sausage back into the mix. Increase heat to high, bringing everything to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Cook Tortellini
Once boiling, add in the tortellini. Reduce heat so that it simmers gently for approximately 5 minutes.
Step 7: Stir in Cream
Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Step 8: Add Spinach
Finally, stir in fresh baby spinach if using, then season with salt & pepper to taste before serving hot.
How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Italian sausage tortellini soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some great ways to elevate your meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread spread with garlic butter adds a delicious crunch.
- Sourdough: A slice of tangy sourdough complements the creamy soup beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Basil: Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant touch and bright flavor.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley offers a splash of color and freshness.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan sprinkled on top enhances the savory flavors.
- Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can be added for an extra cheesy experience.
Pairing with Salad
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the soup.
- Caprese Salad: Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing side.
As a Garnish
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide texture and can be homemade or store-bought.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle adds a spicy kick for those who like heat.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Italian sausage tortellini soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Sausage: Choose fresh, high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time browning the sausage; this enhances its taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: Add more or less cream based on your desired richness in the broth.
- Incorporate Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions closely to avoid overcooking the pasta.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure balanced seasoning without overpowering flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Italian sausage tortellini soup can round out your meal nicely. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter make for a tasty addition to soak up soup.
- Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a flavorful starter.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a fresh contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies offer color and nutrition alongside the soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein while keeping it healthy and filling.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring an elegant touch to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian sausage tortellini soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.
-
Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking the tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and add them to the soup only when it’s simmering.
-
Not Browning the Sausage Properly: Skipping the browning step can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to sauté the sausage until it’s browned for maximum taste.
-
Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. Not adding enough salt or pepper can leave your dish flat. Adjust according to your preference.
-
Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients matters. Choose fresh, high-quality sausage and cheese tortellini for a richer flavor profile.
-
Forgetting About Cream Incorporation: Adding cream too early can change its texture. Stir it in just before serving for a smooth finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
- Use within 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Italian sausage tortellini soup, you’re not alone. Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers.
Can I use different types of sausage for this Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, feel free to substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
What is the best way to store leftovers of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Replace the sausage with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I customize my Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
You can add various vegetables like zucchini or carrots based on your preference or dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more veggies or adjusting spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when comfort food is needed, so give it a try!
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of this Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful blend of savory flavors and creamy textures that will make any chilly evening feel cozy. This hearty soup features zesty Italian sausage and cheesy tortellini swimming in a rich tomato broth, creating a satisfying meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up this family-friendly dish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients and quick cooking steps, it’s an effortless way to bring delicious homemade comfort food to your table.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 sticks celery (chopped)
- 3–4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh baby spinach (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the sausage in a large soup pot over medium-high heat until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Remove the sausage and cook onion and celery in the same pot for 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in flour and garlic, cooking for one minute.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring until combined.
- Add diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and return the sausage to the pot; bring to a boil.
- Stir in tortellini and simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes before stirring in fresh spinach if desired.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Soup
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
