There’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup to warm your soul, especially on a chilly evening. Packed with flavorful Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat.
Do you crave something creamy and indulgent but also want a dish that feels nutritious? This one-pot wonder strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner with family. Plus, it’s so versatile—you can tweak it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.
Let’s dive into this deliciously simple recipe that’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
This Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. Here’s why you’ll love making and enjoying this recipe:
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, hearty, and packed with rich flavors, this soup is perfect for warming up on cold days or when you need a little pick-me-up.
- Quick and Easy: Made in just one pot, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when time is tight but you still want a satisfying meal.
- Nutritious Ingredients: With fresh spinach, protein-packed sausage, and wholesome tortellini, this soup delivers a balanced combination of flavors and nutrients.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy tortellini and savory sausage, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether it’s swapping spinach for kale or using a different type of sausage.
No matter the occasion, this soup is guaranteed to deliver comfort, flavor, and a little extra joy to your day. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself turning to again and again. Ready to give it a try? Let’s gather the ingredients!
Ingredients for Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Let’s talk about the deliciously simple ingredients that make this soup so special. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and heartiness.
What You’ll Need
- Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy, depending on your preference. It’s the foundation of flavor for this soup.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients. You can also substitute with kale for a slightly different texture.
- Cheese Tortellini: The star of the show! These little pasta pockets add a creamy, cheesy goodness to every bite.
- Chicken Broth: Use a good-quality broth for a rich and savory base. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes brings a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: This is what gives the soup its creamy, comforting consistency.
- Aromatics: Fresh garlic and onions sautéed in olive oil provide an irresistible base layer of flavor.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper tie everything together with a hint of warmth and spice.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: For that final touch of cheesy perfection!
Optional Add-Ons
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For a little extra heat.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.
Pro Tip
Prep your ingredients ahead of time for a seamless cooking experience. Chop your onions, measure out your seasonings, and keep your tortellini and spinach ready to go—you’ll thank yourself later!
Now that we’ve got everything we need, let’s move on to bringing these ingredients together into a warm, comforting bowl of soup.
Instructions for Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ready to create a cozy bowl of deliciousness? Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting soup to life:
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon.
- Once the sausage is browned and fully cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. Leave a bit of the drippings for extra flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the onions and cook until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Build the Soup Base
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot with a spoon to deglaze and release all those flavorful bits.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
4. Add Tortellini and Spinach
- Stir in the cheese tortellini and let it cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Toss in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2–3 minutes, just until wilted.
5. Finish with Cream and Parmesan
- Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) for a rich, creamy texture.
- Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and blends into the broth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for the perfect meal.
Pro Tip
If you’re planning to save leftovers, cook the tortellini separately and add it to individual bowls before serving. This keeps the pasta from getting overly soft when reheated.
With these simple steps, you’ll have a pot of delicious, hearty Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup ready to enjoy in no time!
Pro Tips and Variations for Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Making this Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup your own is part of the fun! Here are some pro tips and creative variations to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:
Pro Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use a flavorful sausage and fresh spinach for the best results. High-quality chicken broth makes a big difference too.
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on your tortellini while it cooks. Overcooking can make it mushy, so pull it off the heat as soon as it’s tender.
- Creamy Texture Without Cream: For a lighter version, use whole milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream. You can also blend a portion of the soup for creaminess without added dairy.
- Balancing Flavors: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end for a pop of brightness that balances the richness of the soup.
Delicious Variations to Try
- Switch Up the Greens: Swap out spinach for kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a slightly different texture and flavor.
- Use a Different Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage can replace the Italian sausage for a healthier or vegetarian option.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for a little heat.
- Add Extra Veggies: Boost the nutrition by tossing in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These will cook beautifully in the soup.
- Try Alternative Tortellini: Experiment with different tortellini fillings like spinach and ricotta or mushroom for unique flavor twists.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Storing Leftovers: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If possible, keep the tortellini separate to maintain its texture.
- Freezing: Freeze the soup base (without the tortellini) for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked tortellini after reheating for the best results.
With these tips and variations, you can tailor this recipe to your preferences and enjoy it again and again. Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or trying something new, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
Serving Suggestions for Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Now that your Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is ready, let’s talk about how to serve it up for maximum enjoyment. The right side dishes and garnishes can elevate the experience and make your meal feel even more special!
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread is a classic choice. It’s perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up every last drop of flavor.
- Crusty Bread: If you don’t have garlic bread, a simple loaf of French or sourdough bread works wonders for mopping up the soup.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, a tangy vinaigrette, and maybe a sprinkle of Parmesan offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or a medley of your favorite veggies make for a delicious, nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with the soup.
Toppings to Take It Up a Notch
- Extra Parmesan: A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top of each bowl adds an extra layer of savory goodness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top to bring an extra kick to your bowl.
- Fresh Herbs: A few fresh basil or parsley leaves add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
Meal Prep Tip
This soup is great for meal prepping! Serve it with different sides throughout the week for variety—sometimes with bread, sometimes with a salad, and other times with roasted veggies. You can keep your meals exciting while still enjoying the comforting soup as your base.
With these easy and thoughtful serving ideas, your Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup will not only taste amazing but also look visually stunning on the table. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these simple additions will take your meal to the next level!
Conclusion: Why This Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup Will Become a Family Favorite
There you have it! This Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and convenience. With its rich, creamy broth, hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach, it’s a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly evening or preparing a nourishing soup for a crowd, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Pro Tip: To make the meal even more complete, pair it with sides like crusty garlic bread, a light green salad, or roasted vegetables to add variety and texture. If you like a little extra heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle a bit of hot sauce to spice things up.
If you love the simplicity and flavor of this dish, you might enjoy exploring some of my other easy, hearty recipes that are perfect for busy nights. Try making Hawaiian Chicken in the Crock Pot for a tropical twist on comfort food, or if you’re craving something a bit more indulgent, check out my Filet Mignon in the Air Fryer for a tender, flavorful steak. Need a tasty side? Air Fryer Small Potatoes are the perfect crispy accompaniment to nearly any meal.
This Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Its easy preparation, rich flavors, and comforting qualities make it the perfect dish to share with family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and enjoy a delicious meal that will warm both your body and soul.
Don’t forget to explore my other recipes for more culinary inspiration, and happy cooking!
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can prepare it in advance, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have fresh spinach on hand, frozen spinach works just as well. Be sure to thaw and drain the spinach before adding it to the soup to avoid excess moisture. This makes for a quick and convenient option without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative for a similar texture. The soup will still be rich and flavorful, just without the dairy.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to your soup. You could also sauté some chopped jalapeños with the sausage for an added kick of spice.
What other types of sausage can I use?
While Italian sausage is a classic choice, you can swap it out for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even spicy sausage if you want a little more heat. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly to match the flavor profile of the sausage you choose.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes really well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and chopping board
- Measuring spoons
- Ladle for serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage mild or spicy, based on preference
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream or substitute with coconut milk for dairy-free
- 12 oz fresh spinach chopped
- 1 9 oz package of refrigerated tortellini (cheese or meat)
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat your soup pot over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add broth and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.
- Add tortellini: Stir in the tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Add cream and spinach: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is creamy.
- Return sausage to pot: Add the cooked sausage back into the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
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