Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Introduction

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together flavorful sausage, tender tortellini, and a savory broth, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. This soup combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comforting texture of cheese-filled tortellini, creating a well-balanced and satisfying bowl of goodness. Topped with fresh herbs and grated Parmesan, this soup offers a deliciously warm and filling experience for those chilly days or when you’re simply craving a bowl of something comforting.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and quick to make, while also packing plenty of flavor in every spoonful. Perfect for dinner, family gatherings, or meal prepping, Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is a versatile dish that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this delicious soup!

Why You’ll Love Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein-rich Italian sausage and tender cheese tortellini, making it a satisfying and filling meal on its own.
• Rich, Flavorful Broth: The combination of sausage, tomatoes, and Italian seasonings results in a rich, savory broth that perfectly complements the tortellini and vegetables.
• Quick and Easy: Despite its hearty nature, this soup comes together quickly. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, or any time you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup.
• One-Pot Meal: Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is made in one pot, which means fewer dishes and easier cleanup, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or busy weekends.
• Customizable: The ingredients can be easily adjusted depending on what you have on hand. You can swap the sausage for ground turkey or chicken, add more vegetables, or use a different type of tortellini for variety.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 5-7g

Ingredients

For the Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup:

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for added depth)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Special Equipment

While making Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup doesn’t require specialized tools, a few pieces of equipment can ensure a smoother preparation and better results:

1. Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is essential for making this soup, as it provides enough space for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, as well as simmering the broth and tortellini.
2. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping the onion, garlic, and spinach easier and safer.
3. Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: These are great for stirring the sausage and vegetables, as well as scraping up any browned bits that develop on the bottom of the pot during cooking.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurate measurements are key to balancing the spices and seasonings in the soup.
5. Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving the soup, especially when it’s hot and chunky.
6. Cutting Board: A cutting board is needed for chopping the vegetables and sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. If there is excess grease, drain it off, leaving a small amount of fat in the pot to sauté the vegetables.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. The aroma of the garlic and onion will complement the sausage perfectly.

3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste. The tomato paste adds a rich depth of flavor to the soup. Stir to combine, then pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot, which will add even more flavor to the soup.

4. Season the Soup

Add the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning to taste. If you prefer a slightly tangy note, you can also add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, which enhances the soup’s overall depth of flavor.

5. Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste the broth and adjust the seasonings as necessary.

6. Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the pot, stirring gently to ensure the tortellini is submerged in the broth. Let the soup simmer for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through. If you’re using fresh tortellini, the cooking time may be shorter, so check for doneness after 5-7 minutes.

7. Add the Spinach

Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach (if using). Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and tender. The spinach adds a fresh, leafy texture to the soup that complements the other ingredients nicely.

8. Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil. The Parmesan adds a savory, umami kick, while the fresh herbs bring brightness and a pop of color to the soup. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting, rich flavors of your homemade Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup.

Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Use Fresh or Frozen Tortellini: You can use either fresh or frozen cheese tortellini in this recipe. Both work well, but frozen tortellini may require a slightly longer cooking time.
• Drain Excess Grease: After browning the sausage, be sure to drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy soup. However, leaving a bit of sausage fat in the pot adds flavor to the soup base.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage. For a milder version, opt for sweet or mild sausage and reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
• Add More Vegetables: You can easily add more vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini, for added nutrition and flavor. Simply sauté them with the onion and garlic before adding the tomatoes and broth.
• Make It Creamy: If you want a creamier soup, stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This will give the soup a rich, smooth texture.

Variations of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Vegetarian Version: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the sausage and replace it with plant-based sausage or a combination of beans like white beans or chickpeas. You can also add extra vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for added texture.
• Creamy Tomato Sausage Tortellini Soup: For a creamier version of this soup, add 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This adds richness to the broth, making the soup even more indulgent.
• Spicy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup: Use spicy Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes to make this soup more fiery. The heat will balance nicely with the richness of the sausage and tortellini.
• Pesto Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup: Add 1-2 tablespoons of basil pesto to the soup for an extra burst of flavor. The pesto adds a fragrant herby note that pairs beautifully with the sausage and tortellini.

Storage and Shelf Life

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup stores well and can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To store, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed.

If you want to freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat it on the stove until warmed through. You may need to add a little extra broth or water, as the soup may thicken after freezing.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Garlic Bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
• Mixed Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini complement the flavors of the soup and make for a healthy side dish.
• Cheese and Crackers: A simple plate of cheese and crackers is a great addition to the meal, offering a crunchy and savory bite between spoonfuls of soup.

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Conclusion

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and a flavorful broth. It’s a satisfying and comforting dish that works well for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether served with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or simply on its own, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds and warm you from the inside out! Enjoy this Italian-inspired classic for a truly comforting meal.