This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s loaded with tasty sausage, cheesy tortellini, and fresh veggies simmered in a flavorful broth.
It’s a quick meal for busy days. I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything in a pot and let it work its magic—dinner is done in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use mild or spicy sausage based on your taste preferences. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you need a substitute, shallots or green onions are great choices.
Diced Tomatoes: Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience. If fresh tomatoes are on hand, you can chop them up instead. Just make sure to add a bit of water to make up for the missing liquid.
Half-and-Half/Cream: For a lighter option, swap half-and-half with milk or a plant-based alternative like almond milk. Just be mindful that it may slightly alter the creaminess of the soup.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is my favorite, but you can also try spinach or meat tortellini. Gluten-free tortellini options are available too!
How Do I Get the Sausage Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the sausage correctly is crucial—it sets the flavor for the entire soup! Here’s a simple guide:
- Use a large pot on medium heat to give sausage room to brown.
- Break it into smaller pieces with a spoon, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Ensure no pink remains. If using turkey sausage, it might cook faster, so keep an eye on it.
The goal is a flavorful, browned sausage that enhances the whole dish! Enjoy pairing the finished soup with crusty bread to soak up all the tasty broth.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat. Use a spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Cook until it is nicely browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if there’s a lot!
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté with the sausage until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
Next, add the undrained diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a simmer. It’s all coming together now!
4. Let It Simmer:
Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes. This step is important as it helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Now, stir in the tortellini. Cook it according to the package instructions—this is usually about 3-5 minutes until they’re tender. Tortellini is quick and easy, making this soup super convenient!
6. Add Cream:
Lower the heat and mix in the half-and-half or heavy cream. Heat just until warmed through, but be careful not to boil it after adding the cream, as this can change the texture.
7. Final Seasoning:
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley for freshness. Give it a little taste, and if it needs anything, adjust the seasonings!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with more parsley and a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to have some crusty bread on the side for dipping into that delicious broth!
This creamy and savory sausage tortellini soup is perfect for warming up on chilly nights. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh. Just add them to the soup without thawing them first, and follow the package instructions for cooking time, which is typically just a few minutes longer.
What Can I Substitute for Half-and-Half?
If you don’t have half-and-half, you can use whole milk for a lighter version or heavy cream for a richer flavor. Alternatively, coconut milk or almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, keeping in mind that it may change the taste a bit.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid curdling the cream. If the soup thickens too much, you can add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in some chopped spinach, kale, or carrots for added nutrition. Just add them along with the tomatoes and broth to ensure they cook properly in the soup.
