Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup: the ultimate comfort food that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Imagine twirling, cheese-filled tortellini swimming in a rich, creamy tomato broth, studded with savory Italian sausage. This isn’t just soup; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.

While the exact origins of tortellini soup are debated, pasta-in-brodo (pasta in broth) has been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries. Tortellini, originating from the Emilia region of Italy, adds a delightful textural element to the classic soup. The addition of sausage elevates it to a hearty and complete meal.

People adore Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup for its incredible flavor profile and ease of preparation. The combination of creamy tomato, savory sausage, and cheesy tortellini creates a symphony of tastes that tantalizes the taste buds. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! Using pre-made tortellini and readily available ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality soup on your table in no time. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, loved by kids and adults alike. I know my family requests it at least once a month!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Sausage and Aromatics

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the sausage from its casing (if applicable) and crumble it into the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Make sure there are no pink bits left!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave the rendered fat in the pot – this is where the flavor is! Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot with the onions. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Building the Soup Base

1. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in a splash of chicken broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to the soup.
2. Add Remaining Ingredients (Except Cream, Cheese, and Spinach): Add the remaining chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), and cannellini beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld together. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become!

Cooking the Tortellini and Finishing the Soup

1. Add the Tortellini: Stir in the cheese tortellini and cooked sausage. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and float to the surface. Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they can become mushy.
2. Stir in the Cream and Parmesan: Reduce the heat to low. Gently stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Do not boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
3. Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will add a pop of color and some extra nutrients to the soup.
4. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and chicken broth already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Serving the Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

1. Serve Immediately: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Optional Toppings: For extra flavor and texture, you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
3. Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth or water when reheating.

Tips and Variations:

• Sausage: Feel free to use any type of Italian sausage you like, such as sweet, hot, or mild. You can also use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic.
• Beans: You can substitute other types of beans for the cannellini beans, such as kidney beans, great northern beans, or chickpeas.
• Tortellini: Use any type of cheese tortellini you like, such as three-cheese, ricotta, or mozzarella. You can also use meat-filled tortellini.
• Broth: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you don’t like spice, you can omit them altogether.
• Make it Lighter: To make the soup lighter, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and use less sausage.
• Add Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of dry white wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce before adding the broth.
• Slow Cooker Option: You can also make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic as directed. Then, add all of the ingredients (except the cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cream, Parmesan cheese, and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Garnish with a swirl of pesto for added flavor.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550 per serving
• Fat: 30-40g
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 100-120mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 5-7g
• Sugar: 5-7g
• Protein: 20-25g

Enjoy this comforting and delicious Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. From the savory Italian sausage to the tender cheese-filled tortellini, every spoonful is an explosion of deliciousness. The creamy tomato broth ties everything together, creating a rich and satisfying experience that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen.

But the best part? This soup is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage – spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also swap out the cheese tortellini for spinach or meat-filled tortellini, depending on your preference. For a vegetarian twist, consider using plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Want to elevate your soup game even further? Here are a few serving suggestions:

* Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil, parsley, or oregano adds a burst of freshness and visual appeal.
* Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: This adds a tangy creaminess that complements the richness of the soup.
* Serve with Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that delicious broth.
* Top with Parmesan Cheese: A classic addition that enhances the savory flavors.
* Add Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté them with the onions and garlic for best results.
* Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick.

I’ve personally made this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family absolutely loves it, and I often get requests to make it for potlucks and gatherings. It’s a recipe that’s sure to impress, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.

I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of creamy tomato broth, savory sausage, and tender tortellini is simply irresistible. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to share your experience with me! I’d love to hear how your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup turned out, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Share your photos and comments – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations! Happy cooking!