This creamy sausage tortellini soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With savory sausages, fresh tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s a comforting dish you won’t forget.
If you’re like me, you might enjoy dunking some crusty bread in it—it’s simply the best! Plus, this soup is super easy to whip up, making any dinner feel special without all the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy based on your preference. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken sausage works just as well! You can also try vegetarian sausage for a meat-free choice.
Cheese Tortellini: Go for refrigerated tortellini for ease. If you can’t find it, frozen tortellini is a great substitute. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just know that the texture will vary a bit.
Kale or Spinach: Both greens add nutrition, but you can swap them for Swiss chard, arugula, or any other greens you have on hand. Fresh is best, but you can use frozen in a pinch—just thaw and drain well!
How Do I Make Sure the Soup is Creamy?
The secret to a rich, creamy soup lies in two steps. First, it’s essential to incorporate the cream gradually. Start with low heat after adding the cream to prevent curdling. Stir continuously until fully combined.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, lower the heat before adding cream.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
- Remember, if the soup thickens too much, just add a splash more broth to adjust.
Following these tips will help you achieve that velvety texture every time!
Delicious Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy sausage tortellini soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the finely chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant—this adds that delicious flavor kick!
3. Simmer the Soup Base:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning. Stir everything well and bring it to a gentle simmer on medium heat.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering soup and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes or until tender. The soup aroma will be amazing!
5. Add the Greens:
Stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant. This not only adds nutrients but also a beautiful color!
6. Create the Creaminess:
Lower the heat, then pour in the heavy cream. Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste—adjust according to your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pot from heat. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and top with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for an added touch. For the best experience, serve it alongside some crusty bread for dipping!
8. Savor the Warmth!
Enjoy this hearty, creamy sausage tortellini soup that’s perfect for cooler days and cozy family meals!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any sausage you prefer, such as chicken sausage for a lighter option or even vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version. Just adjust the cooking time if needed based on the type you choose.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To transform this dish into a vegetarian soup, simply omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables or even some beans for extra protein instead!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it over rice for a heartier meal. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
