Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming meal that brings the family together, then look no further than Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup! This recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines comforting ingredients like sweet potatoes, fresh spinach, and three-cheese tortellini in a creamy broth that warms your soul. Whether you’re having a busy weeknight or hosting a small family gathering, this soup is perfect for any occasion.
The best part? It’s all made in one pot, which means less cleanup for you and more time to enjoy each other’s company. Trust me, this delightful soup will become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, dinner is ready before you know it!
- One-Pot Wonder: Less mess means more time to relax and enjoy your meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy tortellini, while adults appreciate the hearty flavors.
- Customizable: Make it your own with different veggies or spices—this recipe adapts beautifully!
- Comfort in a Bowl: This soup is rich and creamy, providing that satisfying hug-in-a-bowl feeling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’ll only need a handful of simple and wholesome ingredients. Each one adds a special touch to this comforting dish.
For the Soup
- 12 oz sausage (such as spicy Italian sausage)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1 sweet potato (large or use 2 small; peeled and cubed)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 6 cups water
- 8 oz tortellini (I used three-cheese tortellini – Buitoni brand)
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons fresh thyme
Variations
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is very flexible, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun variations you might enjoy:
- Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option!
- Add more veggies: Toss in kale or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or increase the red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
- Switch up the cheese: Try using different types of tortellini—like spinach or mushroom—for unique flavors.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large, high-sided pot over medium heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook until it’s browned through. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to your soup. Once cooked, drain any excess grease before seasoning with Italian seasoning and paprika.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, stir in your peeled and cubed sweet potato along with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. This combination creates an aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
Step 3: Incorporate Water
Pour in 6 cups of water. You won’t need chicken stock since the sausage will provide plenty of flavor! Bring everything to a boil while mixing well to ensure that the tomato paste dissolves completely.
Step 4: Simmer Away
Once boiling, reduce heat to simmer gently. Cover your pot with a lid and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully!
Step 5: Add Tortellini
Now it’s time for the tortellini! Add them directly into the pot and cover again. Cook according to the package instructions—usually about 10 minutes—until they’re perfectly al dente.
Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Cream
Just before serving, mix in fresh spinach until it wilts slightly. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream for that luscious texture we all love.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Taste your soup! Depending on how salty your sausage is, you may not need much salt at all; season carefully if needed. Top with fresh thyme before serving—it’s like adding a sprinkle of love!
Now you have a delightful bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup ready to be enjoyed! Gather around the table and savor every delicious spoonful together.
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Making this soup is a breeze, but with these pro tips, you can take it to the next level of deliciousness!
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and texture of your soup, making every bite more vibrant and satisfying.
- Adjust the spice level: If you love heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or even some chopped jalapeños. This will give your soup an extra kick that balances beautifully with the creaminess.
- Cook tortellini al dente: Follow the package instructions carefully, but consider cooking the tortellini just a minute less than recommended. This way, they’ll maintain a nice bite and won’t get mushy in the soup.
- Experiment with greens: While spinach is fantastic, don’t hesitate to swap it out for kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile and added nutrition.
- Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge; just reheat gently and enjoy.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving this comforting soup is all about making it visually appealing and enjoyable! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation.
Garnishes
- Fresh thyme: A few sprigs of fresh thyme not only add a pop of color but also enhance the herbal notes of the dish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Lightly sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top for a salty richness that complements the creaminess perfectly.
Side Dishes
- Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread for dipping. The bread will soak up all that delicious broth, giving you an irresistible bite.
- Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Garlic knots: These buttery garlic knots are perfect for sopping up every last bit of your creamy soup while adding an extra layer of flavor.
- Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal veggies adds color and rich flavors that complement your meal beautifully without overpowering it.
Enjoy making this delightful Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup—it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Make Ahead and Storage
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is perfect for meal prep, making it a fantastic option for busy weeks. You can cook a large batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Here are some practical tips on how to store and prepare this delicious soup ahead of time!
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, consider freezing portions as described below.
Freezing
- Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave-safe container for quicker thawing.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to adjust consistency.
- Stir well before serving and enjoy!
FAQs
Here are some common questions about Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup:
Can I use another type of sausage in this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! You can use any ground sausage you prefer; just ensure that it’s fully cooked before adding it to the soup. Turkey sausage or plant-based alternatives work beautifully too!
How can I make this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, consider using low-fat cream or substituting half-and-half. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients without compromising flavor.
Can I make this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the sausage with your favorite meat alternative (like crumbled tempeh or lentils) and use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth of flavor.
What are some variations I can try with this soup?
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or kale. You can also add beans for extra protein or swap out tortellini for other pasta shapes!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in making this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup! It’s not only comforting but also versatile enough to adapt to your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly night or prepping meals for the week ahead, there’s something truly special about sharing a hearty bowl with loved ones. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to savor every spoonful!
Creamy Tortellini Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the warmth of a bowl of Creamy Tortellini Soup, featuring tender tortellini and sweet potatoes in a rich, dairy-free creamy broth. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, combining wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach and aromatic herbs. The one-pot nature of this recipe makes cleanup a breeze, so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying time with loved ones. Ready in just 40 minutes, this delightful soup promises to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 12 oz chicken sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups water
- 8 oz three-cheese tortellini
- 4 oz fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup plant-based cream
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add crumbled chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in sweet potato, garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste; cook until fragrant.
- Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for about 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
- Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Mix in fresh spinach until wilted; stir in plant-based cream and season to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
