Sausage Tortellini Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Meal for Any Occasion

Name: Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 12 oz Italian Sausage (spicy or mild); 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 tortellini (three-cheese preferred); 4 oz fresh spinach; ½ cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons fresh thyme (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage, the freshness of spinach, and the creaminess of a broth infused with tortellini. This recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or family gatherings. With the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates, this soup is both delicious and nutritious, offering a warm, flavorful bowl that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy ingredients. It’s a one-pot meal that’s simple to make and requires minimal cleanup, ideal for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a satisfying dinner. The sweet potatoes provide a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins, while the sausage adds a savory richness to the dish. The addition of spinach not only enhances the flavor but also contributes a boost of nutrients, making this soup as good for you as it is tasty.

Ingredients for Sausage Tortellini Soup

To create this delicious sausage tortellini soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Italian Sausage: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the soup. Use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick or mild sausage for a more subtle taste.
• Olive Oil: Helps cook the sausage and sauté the vegetables, adding a hint of richness to the broth.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that enhances the flavor of the sausage and vegetables.
• Paprika: Adds a mild smokiness to the soup, complementing the spices in the sausage.
• Sweet Potato: A nutritious vegetable that adds a slight sweetness and plenty of fiber.
• Garlic: Brings depth and savory richness to the broth.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Provides a bit of heat, balancing the sweetness of the potatoes.
• Tomato Paste: Adds richness and depth to the broth, giving it a vibrant color and flavor.
• Water: The base of the soup that will cook the vegetables and sausage.
• Tortellini: Three-cheese tortellini is ideal, but any type of tortellini will work. It adds texture and absorbs the flavors of the broth.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts into the soup, giving it a nice green color and a nutritious boost.
• Heavy Cream: Makes the broth creamy and comforting.
• Fresh Thyme: A garnish that adds a fresh herbal note to the finished soup.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing some ingredients or want to adjust the recipe to fit dietary preferences, here are some easy substitutions:

• Sausage: Use sweet or mild Italian sausage if you prefer a less spicy version. You can also swap in turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Tortellini: If you don’t have tortellini on hand, you can use agnolotti, ravioli, or even gnocchi for a similar texture and flavor.
• Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard also work well in place of spinach, offering a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Cream: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk for a lighter broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup

Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add crumbled Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and paprika.
Add the Vegetables: Add peeled and cubed sweet potato, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together to combine.
Prepare the Broth: Pour in 6 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook, covered, for about 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Cook the Tortellini: Add the tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, about 10 minutes, until tender.
Add the Spinach and Cream: Stir in the spinach until it begins to wilt, then remove the pot from heat. Stir in heavy cream for a creamy finish.
Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, if necessary. Add more red pepper flakes if you prefer extra heat. Garnish with fresh thyme and serve.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the tortellini to prevent it from becoming too soft or mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
Cream Separating: If the cream separates when the soup cools, don’t worry! Just reheat the soup on the stovetop and stir well to restore the creamy texture.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the soup up to the point where you add the cream. Refrigerate the soup and add the cream when ready to serve to prevent it from curdling.

Freezing: This soup freezes well, but avoid adding cream before freezing. You can freeze the soup for up to two months, then add the cream after reheating.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with several sides:

• Salads: A simple arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette or a spinach salad with pine nuts and Parmesan works beautifully alongside this soup.
• Bread: Serve with garlic bread, a crusty loaf of Italian bread, or some warm breadsticks for a complete meal.
• Make It Spicy: If you prefer a spicier version, opt for spicy sausage or add extra red pepper flakes. You can also serve it with a hot sauce on the side for those who like a fiery kick.

Sausage Tortellini Soup: A Versatile Comfort Meal

Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or preparing a hearty meal for a family gathering, Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. This recipe offers a healthy twist on classic comfort food, combining the goodness of sweet potatoes, spinach, and sausage into one delicious, easy-to-make soup.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and ease. With a creamy broth, hearty sausage, and tender tortellini, this dish is both satisfying and simple to make. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a family gathering, it’s a surefire way to delight your guests and nourish your family. Don’t forget the variety of substitutions and additions you can make to customize the soup to your preferences. Try this recipe today for a cozy, delicious meal that everyone will love!

FAQs About Sausage Tortellini Soup

1. Can I use other types of sausage for this soup?

Yes! While the recipe calls for Italian sausage, you can easily substitute with other varieties. Sweet or mild Italian sausage works well if you prefer a less spicy flavor. You can also try using turkey sausage for a leaner option or pork sausage for a different taste profile.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup up to the point where you add the heavy cream. Once everything else is cooked, refrigerate the soup and add the cream when you’re ready to serve to prevent curdling. For best results, enjoy the soup within a few days of making it.

3. How can I store and reheat Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop and add a little extra cream or milk to restore the creamy texture. If you want to freeze it, do so without the cream, and add it later after reheating.

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