CREAMY SAUSAGE TORTELLINI SOUP

I remember being a broke college student, scraping together whatever I could find in the fridge to make a meal. One night, I stumbled upon some Italian sausage, a bag of frozen spinach, and a package of cheese tortellini, and inspiration struck! That haphazard creation blossomed into a comforting, flavorful soup that I still crave to this day. Today, I’m sharing all my secrets for the most amazing Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach you’ll ever make!

There’s something so incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavor and comforting ingredients. This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach hits all the right notes – savory sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and healthy spinach, all swimming in a rich and flavorful broth. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, and I promise, the whole family will devour it!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Okay, let’s be real, there are a million soup recipes out there. So, why should you choose this one? Here’s why this Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a winner:

• It’s Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• It’s Packed with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• It’s Customizable: Feel free to swap out the sausage for ground turkey or chicken, add different vegetables, or use a different type of tortellini. The possibilities are endless!
• It’s Comfort Food at Its Finest: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this soup on a chilly day. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
• It’s Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of pasta, cheese, and flavorful broth. You can even sneak in some extra veggies without them noticing!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the key ingredients you’ll need to create this masterpiece. Don’t worry, most of them are pantry staples!

• Italian Sausage: I prefer using Italian sausage for its robust flavor. You can use sweet, mild, or hot sausage, depending on your preference. Remove the sausage from its casing.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building a flavorful base for the soup.
• Chicken Broth: Using a good quality chicken broth will make a world of difference in the overall flavor of the soup. You can also use vegetable broth if you prefer.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add a touch of acidity and sweetness to the soup.
• Tomato Paste: This helps to thicken the soup and adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
• Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme adds a lovely herbaceous note to the soup.
• Cheese Tortellini: I recommend using cheese-filled tortellini for the best flavor and texture. Fresh or frozen tortellini will work.
• Fresh Spinach: Adds a boost of nutrients and a pop of color to the soup.
• Heavy Cream (Optional): For an extra creamy soup, add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory finish to the soup.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Make Some Soup!

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach in no time!

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. You want the sausage to be nicely browned and cooked through.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly. This will deepen the flavor of the soup.
4. Pour in the Broth and Season: Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
5. Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add the Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become mushy.
7. Stir in the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the soup and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will quickly cook down and add a beautiful green color to the soup.
8. Add Heavy Cream (Optional): If desired, stir in a splash of heavy cream for extra richness and creaminess.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Success Tips for Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

Want to make sure your Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a resounding success? Here are a few golden tips that will guarantee delicious results every time:

• Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the sausage is crucial for developing a deep, savory flavor in the soup. Take your time and let the sausage get nicely browned before adding the other ingredients.
• Use Good Quality Broth: The quality of your chicken broth will significantly impact the overall flavor of the soup. Opt for a good quality broth or, even better, make your own!
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and unappetizing. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions and check for doneness frequently.
• Add the Spinach at the End: Adding the spinach at the end ensures that it doesn’t become overcooked and retains its vibrant green color.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to achieve the perfect flavor balance.

Variations to Make It Your Own

One of the best things about soup is that it’s so versatile! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and variations to create your own signature version of this Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach.

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little extra heat.
• Add More Vegetables: Sauté some diced carrots, celery, or zucchini along with the onion for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use Different Sausage: Try using chorizo, andouille sausage, or even ground turkey or chicken instead of Italian sausage.
• Add Beans: Stir in a can of cannellini beans or kidney beans for added protein and fiber.
• Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add some mushrooms or other vegetables for a heartier vegetarian soup.
• Creamy Tomato Basil: Try adding some fresh basil and a can of crushed tomatoes for a Creamy Tomato Basil variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Serve with Crusty Bread: A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Top with Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory finish to the soup.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a touch of tanginess and creaminess to the soup.
• Serve with a Side Salad: A simple side salad adds a refreshing element to the meal.
• Grilled Cheese Companion: Pair with a warm grilled cheese sandwich, perfect for dipping!

Storing and Reheating Instructions

This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the tortellini may become slightly softer after thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it to the soup after reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For another delightful soup option, consider CHICKEN TORTELLINI HEAVEN – it’s a creamy, comforting delight!

Craving something with a similar depth of flavor but a different texture? Check out this incredible CREAMY DREAMY SAUSAGE SOUP for another comforting and flavorful option!

If you’re looking for a soup with a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs kind of vibe, I highly recommend my SAUSAGE POTATO CHOWDER. It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor!

And for those cold winter nights, nothing beats a bowl of CHICKEN DUMPLING SOUP. The dumplings are so soft and pillowy, and the broth is incredibly flavorful.

Craving pasta in soup form? My LASAGNA SOUP is a deconstructed lasagna in a bowl, complete with rich tomato sauce, cheese, and noodles. It’s pure comfort food!

Or maybe, you want something without the sausage? Then try my CREAMY TORTELLINI SOUP.

Recipe

Here’s the complete recipe for Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach:

**Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach**

**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 35 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing
* 1 large onion, diced
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 8 cups chicken broth
* 2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs
* 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
* 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
* 1 (20 ounce) package cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
* 5 ounces fresh spinach
* 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
* Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
7. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
8. If desired, stir in the heavy cream for extra richness and creaminess.
9. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

**Notes:**

* For a spicier soup, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini.
* You can use different types of sausage, such as chorizo or andouille sausage.
* If you don't have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup.

Enjoy Your Homemade Soup!

There you have it – a simple, delicious, and comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach that’s perfect for any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones. From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking!