When you want a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, nothing beats this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s a hearty, soul-satisfying meal brimming with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a luscious creamy broth that melds it all together beautifully. Each spoonful offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that turn an ordinary day into something special. Whether you’re cooking for family or craving a cozy solo dinner, this soup delivers warmth and delight with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but thoughtfully chosen to create layers of taste and texture in the soup. Every element from the sausage to the spinach plays a crucial role in building the rich flavor and beautiful color that make this recipe shine.
- Olive oil: The base fat for browning the sausage and sautéing aromatics, adding subtle richness.
- Italian sausage: Provides the hearty, savory backbone with its flavorful spices and satisfying texture.
- Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and a tender bite after sautéing.
- Garlic: Brings an aromatic depth that wakes up the soup’s flavor profile.
- Chicken broth: Offers a savory, comforting liquid foundation that enhances all other ingredients.
- Diced tomatoes with juices: Introduces a slight tang and vibrant color, balancing creaminess.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its traditional Italian flair.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a gentle kick that elevates the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural flavors.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: The tender, cheesy pasta pockets that turn this soup into a meal.
- Fresh baby spinach: Adds freshness, nutrition, and an appealing green pop.
- Heavy cream: The ingredient that cloaks the soup in luxurious creaminess.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A sharp, nutty hit that rounds out the flavor and adds silky texture.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step locks in the sausage’s rich, savory flavor. Next, toss in the diced yellow onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent, followed by the minced garlic which cooks just until fragrant, around one minute.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering step allows all the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini, following the package instructions for cooking time—usually about 5 to 7 minutes until tender yet still holding their shape. This pasta turns the soup into a complete meal, providing bite-sized cheesy pockets that are irresistibly satisfying.
Step 4: Add the Greens and Cream
Mix in the fresh baby spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Finally, lower the heat to gentle warmth and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. This final mix creates that signature creamy texture and rich flavor of the soup. Give it a taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then it’s ready to serve piping hot.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a few fresh basil or parsley leaves for a bright, fresh finish that makes the bowl feel even more inviting. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of crushed red pepper can also add an exciting flavor boost if you want to jazz it up.
Side Dishes
This soup loves company! Serve it alongside crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad to round out your meal. A warm baguette makes a perfect tool for dipping into every last drop of that creamy broth, soaking up deliciousness with every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this hearty soup in individual bread bowls or mini cocottes for a cozy, rustic presentation. You can also ladle it over cooked polenta for a comforting layered dish, or add a fried egg on top for brunch-style indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store leftover creamy sausage tortellini soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
If you want to save soup for a longer period, freezing is an option. However, keep in mind that the tortellini may become a little softer upon thawing. Freeze in tightly sealed containers or freezer bags for up to 2 months. Consider adding the spinach fresh upon reheating rather than freezing it with the soup to retain texture and color.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the cream from separating and to maintain the soup’s silky texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a wonderful leaner alternative that still delivers plenty of flavor. The soup will be a bit lighter but just as delicious.
Can I substitute spinach with other greens?
Yes, kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula work nicely. Just be sure to adjust cooking times since some greens take a little longer to wilt.
What type of tortellini works best?
Fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini is ideal for this recipe due to its quick cooking time and tender texture, but frozen tortellini can also be used. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this soup spicy?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes as optional, so you can control the spice level. Leaving them out makes the soup mild and family-friendly.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry—mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water—and cook for a few minutes before adding the cream. This will give you a heartier, velvety consistency.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm celebration in a bowl. Rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, it’s perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and discover why it’s become such a beloved favorite. Once you do, it’s bound to become a go-to comfort food for your family too!
Print
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal, combining Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for an easy dinner that satisfies with savory flavors and a smooth texture.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure an even texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Add Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: After boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package directions, typically 5 to 7 minutes, until tender.
- Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh baby spinach and allow it to wilt for about 2 minutes.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan. Mix until the soup is creamy and heated through.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute kale for spinach or use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- For a thicker soup, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) before adding the cream.
