Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Quick & Hearty Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Comfort finds its way to your table through this hearty italian sausage tortellini soup that promises warmth and satisfaction.

Savory sausage and tender tortellini dance together in a rich, aromatic broth packed with vegetables.

Robust flavors mingle seamlessly, creating a bowl of pure culinary delight.

Each spoonful brings a perfect blend of meaty, cheesy goodness that warms you from the inside out.

Simple ingredients transform into an extraordinary meal that feels like a culinary embrace.

Fresh herbs and perfectly seasoned broth elevate this soup from ordinary to extraordinary.

Why Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Is a Crowd-Pleaser

  • Savor Hearty Comfort: This Italian sausage tortellini soup delivers rich, satisfying flavors packed with protein and warmth that instantly comfort your soul.
  • Boost Weeknight Convenience: One-pot magic means minimal cleanup, quick preparation, and a complete meal ready in under 30 minutes for busy families and professionals.
  • Customize with Ease: Adaptable recipe allows swapping spinach for kale, changing protein, or adjusting seasonings to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Perfect for batch cooking, this soup stores beautifully in refrigerator and freezer, providing delicious ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Proteins:
  • Italian Sausage: A flavorful meat that provides the base and rich taste for the soup.
  • Chicken Broth: A liquid base that adds depth and savory notes to the soup.
Dairy and Cream:
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and a smooth, velvety texture to the soup.
  • Parmesan Cheese: A classic Italian cheese that provides a sharp, salty garnish.
Vegetables and Seasonings:
  • Onions, Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that build a flavor foundation for the soup.
  • Diced Tomatoes, Tomato Paste: Provide a tangy and slightly sweet tomato base.
  • Spinach: A fresh, green vegetable that adds nutrition and color to the soup.
  • Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Spices and herbs that enhance the overall flavor profile.
Pasta:
  • Tortellini: Small, ring-shaped pasta filled with cheese or meat that adds substance to the soup.

How to Cook Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until it’s completely browned.

Remove any excess grease from the pot to keep the soup from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Toss the diced onions into the same pot and cook them until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet flavor into the base of the soup.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Add the following ingredients to create a rich, flavorful foundation:
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Chicken broth
  • Minced garlic
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Stir in the tortellini and heavy cream.

Let the soup simmer until the pasta becomes tender and absorbs the delicious surrounding flavors.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Gently mix in fresh spinach and cook until it wilts completely, adding a vibrant green color and nutritious touch to the soup.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls and sprinkle generously with shaved Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of richness.

Step 7: Store and Reheat

This soup keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

For long-term storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to three months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pro Tips for Sausage Tortellini Soup

  • Remove excess grease completely to prevent an oily soup and ensure a cleaner, more robust flavor profile.
  • Cook tortellini just until al dente to prevent mushy pasta and maintain a perfect chewy consistency in your soup.
  • Add spinach at the very end of cooking to preserve its vibrant green color and retain maximum nutritional value.
  • Use fresh Italian sausage and high-quality tortellini for a more authentic and delicious soup experience.
  • Add extra chicken broth if the soup becomes too thick during cooking, maintaining a balanced liquid-to-ingredient ratio.

Flavor Variations for Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

  • Vegetarian Veggie Delight: Replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a complete vegetarian version.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Bowl: Swap traditional tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini or zucchini noodles. Ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Spicy Southwestern Remix: Add diced green chiles, swap Italian seasoning for chili powder and cumin. Include black beans and top with fresh cilantro for a zesty transformation.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Substitute tortellini with cauliflower florets or zucchini chunks. Use heavy cream and increase protein content by adding extra ground meat or cheese.

Serving Suggestions for Sausage Tortellini Soup

  • Hearty Meal Companion: Serve with crusty Italian bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious broth and add a satisfying crunch.
  • Protein Power-Up: Top with grilled chicken strips or crispy bacon bits for extra protein and a delightful textural contrast.
  • Fresh Salad Sidekick: Pair with a crisp mixed green salad dressed in a light balsamic vinaigrette to balance the soup's rich, comforting flavors.
  • Wine Pairing Perfection: Complement the soup with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese to enhance the Italian sausage's robust taste.

Storing Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

  • Transfer cooled soup to airtight containers, seal tightly, and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep spinach and Parmesan separate to maintain texture.
  • Pour soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1-inch space for expansion. Label with date and contents. Freeze flat for maximum space efficiency for up to 3 months.
  • Pour soup into a pot, add splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly. Add fresh spinach after reheating.
  • Place soup in microwave-safe bowl, cover with microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until steaming hot and evenly warmed.

FAQs

  • What kind of sausage works best for this recipe?

Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, provides the most authentic flavor. Choose ground sausage with casings removed for easier cooking and better integration into the soup.

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain a robust flavor profile.

  • Is this soup nutritious?

Absolutely! The recipe includes protein from sausage, nutrient-rich spinach, and tortellini. The combination offers a balanced meal with vegetables, protein, and carbohydrates.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Italian sausage tortellini soup delivers comfort in a bowl, blending robust flavors from simmering ingredients. Creamy cheese-filled tortellini and spicy sausage create a satisfying meal you’ll crave on chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound ground mild Italian sausage
  • 20 ounces fresh cheese tortellini

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1/2 medium yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 1 can (28 ounces / 794 grams) diced tomatoes
  • 3 cups (710 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup (237 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garnish:

  • Shaved Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Brown Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat until fully cooked, carefully draining any excess fat.
  2. Sauté diced onions in the same pot until they become soft and translucent, releasing their aromatic flavors.
  3. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine all ingredients.
  4. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes.
  5. Add tortellini and heavy cream, continuing to simmer until the pasta becomes tender and fully cooked, approximately 7-9 minutes.
  6. Gently fold in fresh spinach, letting it wilt and integrate seamlessly into the soup’s rich texture.
  7. Remove from heat and ladle the soup into serving bowls, topping with freshly shaved Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
  8. For storage, refrigerate the soup in an airtight container for up to four days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For extended preservation, freeze for up to three months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Notes

  • Choose lean or turkey sausage for a healthier alternative to traditional Italian sausage, reducing overall fat content while maintaining robust flavor.
  • Vegetarian option works perfectly by substituting sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra firm tofu seasoned with Italian herbs and spices.
  • Fresh tortellini delivers superior texture compared to dried versions, ensuring a more luxurious and authentic soup experience.
  • Control sodium levels by using low-sodium chicken broth and monitoring added salt during cooking process.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 460 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 21 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star