Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. Loaded with juicy Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a creamy tomato broth, this soup is not just flavorful but also incredibly easy to make. In just 40 minutes, you can serve up a bowl of warmth that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of Italian sausage, tomatoes, and cream creates a savory broth that’s bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives this soup a luxurious texture that elevates it above typical soups.
• Hearty Meal: Packed with protein and carbs, this dish is filling enough to be enjoyed as a standalone meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Italian sausage tortellini soup, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process. Below are essential items you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot allows you to sauté ingredients evenly and simmer the soup without overflow.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring everything blends well together.

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 Base

• 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)

Broth Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Creaminess

• 2 generous cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream

Optional Add-ins

• 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 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 fat in the pot (drain any excess). Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.

Step 3: Create the Base

Add the flour and garlic to the vegetables. Cook for one minute while stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Stir in Broth

Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring until the flour has completely dissolved.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 6: Cook Tortellini

Once boiling, add the tortellini. Reduce heat so it simmers gently for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add Cream

Stir in heavy cream and cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Final Touches

Stir in fresh baby spinach if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.

How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Serving Italian sausage tortellini soup is a delightful way to enjoy this creamy and flavorful dish. Here are some great ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked bread or a baguette can be perfect for dipping into the rich broth of the soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding chopped parsley or basil on top enhances both the presentation and flavor of the soup.

Serve with a Salad

• A light green salad balances the meal and adds freshness. Consider a simple vinaigrette for a zesty touch.

Offer Grated Cheese

• Provide grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese at the table for guests to sprinkle over their soup, adding extra creaminess.

Use Fun Bowls

• Serving in colorful or unique bowls can make the meal feel more special and inviting, especially for gatherings.

Add a Splash of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a nice zing.

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: The flavor of your soup hinges on good-quality Italian sausage. Opt for fresh, high-quality meat for the best taste.
• Don’t skip the sautéing: Browning the sausage well adds depth and richness to the broth, enhancing overall flavor.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
• Cook tortellini al dente: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooking can make tortellini mushy in the soup.
• Add spinach at the end: To keep it vibrant and fresh, stir in spinach just before serving so it wilts without losing its bright color.
• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Italian sausage tortellini soup can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic goes hand-in-hand with any soup. Toast slices of bread with butter, garlic, and herbs for added flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender provide a nutritious complement that pairs well with the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs are great finger food that meshes well with the flavors of the soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables creates a colorful and flavorful addition to your meal.
7. Simple Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans seasoned with olive oil and lemon zest add brightness to your plate without overpowering it.
8. Mixed Grain Salad: A hearty salad made from quinoa or farro mixed with veggies provides texture and nutrition alongside your warm bowl of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small mistakes when preparing Italian sausage tortellini soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Not browning the sausage properly: Failing to brown the sausage can result in a bland flavor. Make sure to sauté it until it’s fully browned for the best taste.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose their texture. Follow the cooking time closely, typically around 5 minutes after adding them to the soup.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can lead to an unbalanced flavor. Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is essential for flavor in this soup. Use a high-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for a richer taste.
• Ignoring optional ingredients: Skipping fresh spinach or other optional ingredients can lead to a lack of freshness in your soup. Consider adding fresh herbs or vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, the texture of the tortellini may change.

Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer soup into an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Italian sausage tortellini soup.

How do I make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup healthier?

You can use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage or add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots for extra nutrition.

Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?

Yes! Frozen tortellini work just as well as refrigerated ones; just add a couple more minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?

A side salad or crusty bread pairs perfectly with this rich soup, enhancing your meal experience.

How long does Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup last?

When stored properly, this soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer.

Can I customize my Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables, beans, or even switch up the protein according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Italian sausage tortellini soup is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavors that everyone will love. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personalized touch!