This creamy sausage tortellini soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty sausage, soft tortellini, and a thick, comforting broth, it’s a perfect meal for chilly days.
You can whip this up quickly, making it great for busy nights. I love topping it with some cheese and fresh herbs—it makes my day so much brighter! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds great flavor. If you want to lighten the dish, use ground turkey or chicken sausage. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
Broth: Chicken broth gives excellent depth, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth adds a touch of extra flavor if you have it!
Cheese Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is classic, but you could try spinach or meat-filled options. If you need a gluten-free meal, go for gluten-free tortellini available in stores.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, consider using half-and-half or whole milk. Coconut milk is a tasty dairy-free alternative, giving it a unique flavor!
Fresh Spinach: You can replace fresh spinach with kale or Swiss chard. If you use frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and drain it well first!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Is Creamy?
Achieving that perfect creamy texture is key to this soup. The heavy cream is essential, but here are tips to ensure it turns out great:
- Always add the cream over low heat. High heat can cause it to separate.
- Make sure to stir continuously after adding the cream to combine it well with the broth.
- If the soup seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
These steps will help you create a smooth, rich soup every time. Enjoy your creamy deliciousness! 😊
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy sausage tortellini soup will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes gathering and chopping your ingredients, and then around 20 minutes cooking it all together. It’s quick and comes together beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once heated, add the Italian sausage. Cook it, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through—this should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browning the sausage adds a lot of flavor!
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion to your pot. Sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes 3 to 4 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing that delicious garlic aroma to fill your kitchen!
3. Pour in Broth:
Now it’s time to add the chicken broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a lovely boil; this will help the flavors meld together. Once it’s boiling, you’re ready for the next step!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the boiling broth and cook according to the package instructions—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. You want your tortellini to be tender but still firm, so keep an eye on it!
5. Stir in Cream and Spinach:
After the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the creamy goodness of the heavy cream and the fresh spinach leaves. If you like a bit of heat, now is also the time to add the crushed red pepper flakes. Let’s simmer gently for about 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach is wilted and everything is heated through.
6. Add Parmesan Cheese:
Next, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir to combine everything beautifully. Give your soup a taste—don’t forget to season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking!
7. Serve it Up:
Time to ladle this creamy soup into bowls! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle more of Parmesan cheese on top. It’s ready for you to enjoy!
8. Savor Every Bite:
Serve your creamy sausage tortellini soup warm and dig in! You’ll love the comforting flavors and velvety texture. This dish is sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based variety for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly if the sausage is less flavorful.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be mindful that it may change the flavor slightly but will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to adjust the consistency if it thickens.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! However, for best results, freeze it without the cream. When ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat, then stir in the cream just before serving for that fresh, creamy texture.
