Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This soup brings together flavorful Italian sausage, creamy broth, and cheesy tortellini, creating a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out. It’s easy to make and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a simple family dinner. Plus, it combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in one bowl, ensuring a balanced meal that everyone will love.
This soup is not only tasty but also adaptable. You can modify the ingredients to suit your family’s preferences or dietary needs. Whether you need a gluten-free option or want to pack in more veggies, this soup can be your canvas for culinary creativity.
HOW TO MAKE Sausage Tortellini Soup
Making Sausage Tortellini Soup is simple and straightforward. You will need just a few ingredients to whip up this delightful meal. Below are the ingredients and directions you will follow.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454g) mild or sweet Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow or white onion (diced)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 32 ounces (907mL) chicken stock
- 3 cups (90g) baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 10 ounces (283g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS:
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned. While cooking, be sure to crumble the sausage as it cooks. Once browned, transfer the sausage from the pot to a plate or bowl using a slotted spoon. If your sausage is excessively greasy, you may want to line the plate or bowl with a paper towel.
- Using the leftover grease from the sausage, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the chicken stock and allow the mixture to come to a low simmer.
- Add the browned sausage back into the pot along with the baby spinach and heavy cream or milk. Bring the soup to a simmer again.
- Finally, add in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the instructions on the tortellini package, which is usually about 3-5 minutes.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Allow the soup to cool for 15 minutes before serving.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
HOW TO SERVE Sausage Tortellini Soup
When it comes to serving Sausage Tortellini Soup, there are a few ways to make it even more enjoyable. Serve the soup hot in bowls, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Crusty bread or breadsticks make a great side to dip into the warm soup.
For a complete meal, you might also want to serve a simple salad alongside the soup. A light Caesar or mixed greens salad pairs well and adds some freshness to your meal.
HOW TO STORE Sausage Tortellini Soup
If you have leftovers after enjoying your Sausage Tortellini Soup, storing them is easy. Simply place the soup in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. You can keep it sealed for up to 5 days.
If you choose to freeze the soup, let it cool down first. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, place the soup in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
TIPS TO MAKE Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Use Quality Sausage: Choose a good-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can opt for mild or spicy, depending on your taste preference.
- Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding vegetables like diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the onion and garlic for enhanced taste.
- Build More Flavor: Adding fresh or dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile of the soup.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative.
- Cook Tortellini Separately: If you would like to have the option to store leftover soup without the tortellini getting mushy, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it to each bowl when serving.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to customize your Sausage Tortellini Soup to match your taste or dietary preferences. Here are just a few ideas:
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. You can boost the flavor with beans or lentils for protein.
- Add Dairy-Free Options: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative to make it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to spice things up.
- Different Pasta: While tortellini adds a nice touch, feel free to use other types of pasta, such as shell pasta, orzo, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lower-carb option.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can! If you use frozen tortellini, you may need to adjust the cooking time according to the package directions. Typically, frozen tortellini may require a bit longer to cook.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. Sausage Tortellini Soup can be made ahead of time. Just follow the preparation steps, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it on the stove before serving.
3. Is Sausage Tortellini Soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free Italian sausage and substitute the tortellini for gluten-free pasta or noodles. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients meet gluten-free requirements.
Such a delightful and versatile dish makes Sausage Tortellini Soup a favorite among families and friends, perfect for cozy evenings or sharing with loved ones. Enjoy preparing and savoring it!