Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, bringing together rich, hearty flavors in a creamy broth. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this soup is the perfect choice. The combination of spicy sausage, sweet potatoes, spinach, and cheese-filled tortellini in a flavorful cream-based broth makes this dish irresistible. It’s not only easy to make, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal meal for busy evenings.
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Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is everything you could want in a meal. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with healthy ingredients. The addition of sweet potatoes adds a touch of natural sweetness while providing fiber and nutrients. Spinach contributes vital vitamins and antioxidants, while the sausage adds a savory, spicy kick. With tender tortellini and a creamy broth, it’s the kind of soup that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:
- Spicy Italian Sausage: Adds rich, savory flavor. You can use mild Italian sausage for a less spicy version.
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
- Italian Seasoning: Enhances the depth of flavor with a blend of herbs.
- Paprika: Adds a smoky undertone to the soup.
- Sweet Potato: Offers a sweet, hearty base and is a great source of fiber and vitamins.
- Garlic: For a fragrant, savory touch.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of heat, customizable based on your spice preference.
- Tomato Paste: Contributes a rich, tangy depth to the broth.
- Water: The base of the soup, with plenty of flavor from the sausage.
- Three-Cheese Tortellini: These tender dumplings soak up the delicious broth, making each bite extra satisfying.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds a burst of green and balances the richness of the soup.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the soup creamy and luxurious.
- Fresh Thyme: Garnishes the soup, adding a touch of freshness.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
If you’re missing any of these ingredients or have dietary preferences, here are some swaps:
- Sausage: Substitute spicy sausage with sweet Italian sausage or even ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Tortellini: Use other pasta like agnolotti, ravioli, or even gnocchi if tortellini isn’t available.
- Spinach: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture.
- Cream: For a lighter version, half-and-half can replace the heavy cream, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add crumbled spicy Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned.
- Add Vegetables: To the sausage, add cubed sweet potatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Create the Broth: Pour in the water, ensuring the tomato paste dissolves completely. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the tortellini to the soup and cook according to package directions, about 10 minutes. Ensure the tortellini is fully cooked and tender.
- Add Spinach and Cream: Stir in the spinach and let it wilt in the hot broth. Then, remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt to taste, and if you like extra heat, add more red pepper flakes. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve hot.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
- For Creamy Texture: The cream might separate as the soup cools. Don’t worry—once you reheat the soup, it will return to its creamy consistency.
- Avoid Overcooking Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini to avoid overcooking it, which can cause it to become mushy.
- Make Ahead: To save time, prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream. Refrigerate, and add the cream right before serving.
- Leftovers: This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. For the best results, refrigerate tortellini separately from the soup, though it’s not necessary.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is versatile enough to pair with various side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Simple Salad: A fresh arugula salad with lemon zest and balsamic dressing complements the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of crispy garlic bread or a loaf of Italian bread for a perfect meal combination.
- Variation: For a spicier twist, add a bit more red pepper flakes or use a hot Italian sausage. You can also make this soup gluten-free by substituting the tortellini with gluten-free pasta.
Storing and Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
To store:
- Refrigerate: Leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you separate the tortellini, it will maintain a better texture.
To reheat:
- On the Stove: Gently reheat the soup over medium heat, adding a little extra cream or milk to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing Tips
If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup in advance, it can be frozen:
- Do not add cream: To prevent separation, freeze the soup without the cream. Add the cream when reheating.
- Freeze in Portions: Divide the soup into smaller portions for easy defrosting and reheating.
- Storage: Keep the soup in an airtight container, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Why This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a Must-Try
Sausage Tortellini Soup is an unbeatable combination of creamy, savory, and wholesome flavors. With hearty vegetables like sweet potatoes and spinach, tender tortellini, and flavorful sausage, this one-pot dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this soup is sure to become a favorite.
Conclusion
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings together the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and creamy goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing for a cozy night in, this easy one-pot meal will satisfy your cravings and leave everyone asking for seconds. With simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe you can rely on during busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of this warm, delicious soup that’s perfect for any occasion.
FAQ about Sausage Tortellini Soup
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes! While spicy Italian sausage adds a kick to the soup, you can substitute it with mild Italian sausage or even ground turkey for a leaner option. Just remember that the flavor profile will change depending on the type of sausage you choose.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Sausage Tortellini Soup dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Additionally, ensure the tortellini you use is dairy-free, or opt for another type of pasta such as gnocchi.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen! However, do not add the cream before freezing, as it can separate when thawed. Instead, freeze the soup base without the cream and add the cream when you reheat it. Freeze in portions for easy defrosting.
More Relevant Recipes
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Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delicious, comforting one-pot meal that combines spicy Italian sausage, tender tortellini, sweet potatoes, spinach, and a rich cream-based broth. It’s easy to make, takes only 40 minutes, and is perfect for a hearty dinner on busy nights.
Ingredients
- 12 oz spicy Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 6 cups water
- 8 oz three-cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons fresh thyme
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add crumbled spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Season sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika, then add cubed sweet potato, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
- Pour in 6 cups of water, bring to a boil, and reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add tortellini to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes, following the package instructions.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until it wilts slightly.
- Remove from heat, add the heavy cream, and stir to combine. Season with salt to taste and garnish with fresh thyme.
Notes
- If you prefer a milder version, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy sausage.
- This soup can be made ahead by omitting the heavy cream until you’re ready to serve.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze the soup (without cream) for up to 2 months.
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and ensure you choose a dairy-free tortellini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
