Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is a comforting bowl of goodness that combines savory sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, creamy tomato broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe is quick to prepare and delivers robust flavors that will please everyone at the table. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, this soup is perfect for those hectic days when you need a meal in a hurry.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy broth creates an irresistible flavor profile that delights the palate.
- Versatile Ingredient Options: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Comforting & Filling: This dish is not only delicious but also satisfying, making it an ideal choice for dinner any night of the week.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy tortellini! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gathering the right tools makes the process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Chopping knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Provides ample space for simmering all ingredients together without spilling over.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring thick soups; it helps prevent scratching on pots while mixing ingredients thoroughly.
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: Brown 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 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 and drain any excess. Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes.
Step 3: Create Base for Soup
Add the flour and garlic to the pot. Cook for one minute while stirring constantly to combine everything well.
Step 4: Add Broth
Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring until the flour has completely dissolved into the broth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add canned tomatoes along with their juices and Italian seasoning into the pot. Return the browned sausage to join them. Increase heat to high and bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Cook Tortellini
Once boiling, add in cheese tortellini and reduce heat so it’s gently simmering. Cook for about 5 minutes until tortellini are tender.
Step 7: Stir in Cream
Pour in heavy cream and continue cooking for another 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Final Touches
Stir in fresh spinach if using. Season with salt & pepper to taste before serving hot.
Enjoy your delicious Italian sausage tortellini soup with crusty bread or a light salad!
How to Serve Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Italian sausage tortellini soup can elevate your meal experience. This soup is rich and creamy, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Basil: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
- Parsley: Chopped parsley can enhance the presentation and add a mild taste.
Accompanied by Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread: Offers a deliciously savory contrast to the soup.
Topped with Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan on top adds richness and depth.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Melting mozzarella can create a gooey texture that’s irresistible.
Served with Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic pairing that offers crispness alongside the creamy soup.
- Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing balance.
How to Perfect Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Perfecting your Italian sausage tortellini soup can make all the difference in flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.
- Use Quality Sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Sauté Until Golden: Make sure to brown the sausage well; this adds depth to the broth.
- Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time for tortellini to maintain their texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt and pepper at different stages can build layers of flavor.
- Add Spinach Last: Adding spinach at the end keeps it vibrant and nutrient-rich.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Italian sausage tortellini soup can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options that complement its rich flavors.
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery loaf infused with garlic is perfect for dipping.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing provide a refreshing counterpoint.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a light and colorful side.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil offers a fresh bite before the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized bring warmth to your dinner table.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer that pairs well with the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Italian sausage tortellini soup, avoiding common mistakes can enhance your cooking experience and the final dish.
- Skipping the Sautéing Step: This step is crucial for developing flavor. Always sauté the sausage until browned to enhance its taste before adding other ingredients.
- Not Measuring Ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can lead to imbalanced flavors. Use precise measurements, especially for spices and broth, to maintain the soup’s integrity.
- Adding Cream Too Early: Adding cream before the broth has simmered can cause it to curdle. Wait until after simmering to stir in the cream for a smooth texture.
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant touch. Don’t skip it or use wilted veggies; fresh ingredients elevate the soup’s flavor and nutrition.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth sets the base flavor of your soup. Always choose a good-quality chicken broth or homemade stock for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute increments, stirring between each until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Italian sausage tortellini soup.
Can I use frozen tortellini in Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works perfectly. Just add it directly to the soup during cooking without thawing.
How can I customize my Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or zucchini. You can also substitute turkey sausage or use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy texture and cheesy tortellini make it appealing to kids. Adjust seasoning as needed based on their preferences.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare it up to a day ahead. Just reheat on the stovetop before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage tortellini soup is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. With its creamy tomato broth and cheesy pasta, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins!
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in a warm bowl of Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, creamy tomato broth. This comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering robust flavors that please everyone at the table. With just 10 minutes of prep and ready in 40 minutes, this soup is not only quick but also feels like a cozy hug on chilly days.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 sticks celery (chopped)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Fresh baby spinach (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot, brown the sausage over medium-high heat for 7-10 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and celery for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in flour and minced garlic; cook for one minute.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring until well combined.
- Add diced tomatoes and return the sausage to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in tortellini and simmer for about 5 minutes until tender.
- Mix in heavy cream and spinach if using; season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Soups
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
