Creamy, hearty, and brimming with delicious flavors, Hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup is everything you want in a one-pot meal. The combination of spicy sausage, cheesy tortellini, and tender spinach in a rich tomato and cream broth will have you coming back for seconds—or thirds!
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is easy to make, endlessly satisfying, and absolutely packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners.
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to clean, more time to enjoy.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients or adjust the heat level to suit your taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family meals, gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups baby spinach (or kale for a heartier option)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Parmesan cheese, grated (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the onion to the pot with the sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with juice).
- Stir in the basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the Tortellini
- Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering soup.
- Cook according to the package instructions:
- Fresh tortellini: 3-5 minutes
- Frozen tortellini: 7-8 minutes
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Cream and Spinach
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream.
- Add the baby spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender.
6. Season and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Enhance your Hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup with these pairings:
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Add an extra layer of indulgence.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Sausage: Mild or spicy Italian sausage adds depth; turkey sausage is a leaner alternative.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Add it toward the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- For Thicker Soup: Reduce the amount of broth slightly or add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the base.
- Substitute Greens: Swap baby spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for variety.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup without the tortellini, then add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter for a lighter version.
Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini or cream. Add those fresh when reheating to maintain the texture and flavor.
What other proteins can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage alternative work well in this recipe.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, and skip the Parmesan for a fully vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of creamy richness, savory sausage, and tender tortellini. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy and warm you up.
Serve it with your favorite sides, sprinkle on some Parmesan, and enjoy a bowl of pure, comforting delight. Make this recipe your go-to for chilly nights—you won’t regret it!