Hearty Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe

There’s something magical about a warm, hearty soup that nourishes both the body and soul, especially as the weather starts to cool. And this Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup? It’s a game-changer. Rich, savory, and packed with cheesy tortellini goodness, this soup is the comfort food you didn’t know you needed, but trust me, after one bite—you’ll be hooked!

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for leftovers to last the week, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it comes together in just 35 minutes—quick and easy enough for a busy weeknight meal.

Why You’ll Love Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup

1. Flavor Explosion: The bold Italian sausage combined with garlic, onions, and herbs makes for an incredible flavor base. Add the creamy broth, and it’s perfection.
2. Comforting and Filling: Cheese tortellini takes this soup to the next level. Every bite is like a little pillow of cheesy goodness.
3. Nutritious: Packed with fresh spinach, this soup delivers a healthy dose of greens.
4. Versatile: Switch up the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences, like swapping sausage for chicken or adding in kale instead of spinach!

What Does It Taste Like?

Oh, the flavors! Imagine the savory bite of Italian sausage with the gentle sweetness of onions and garlic, all simmered together in a rich, tomatoey broth. The cheese tortellini gives every spoonful that cheesy, comforting bite, while the spinach brings a touch of freshness. And the cream? It ties everything together with a luscious, silky texture. It’s rich but not overwhelming, cozy but with a kick from those red pepper flakes.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (or substitute with chicken or turkey sausage)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
• 3 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Sharp knife for chopping
• Ladle for serving

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

• Swap the Sausage: You can substitute the Italian sausage for a milder or spicier variety, depending on your preference. Chicken or turkey sausage also works wonderfully.
• Different Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try kale or even Swiss chard for a heartier bite.
• Tortellini Alternatives: Don’t have tortellini? No problem! Use ravioli, gnocchi, or even a smaller pasta like ditalini or orecchiette.
• Add Veggies: Sneak in more nutrients by adding carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned and cooked through, remove any excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Veggies: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions turn translucent and fragrant.
3. Build the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini and let them cook directly in the broth, usually for about 7-8 minutes or until tender.
5. Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach, allowing it to wilt into the soup.
6. Finish with Cream: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring until the soup turns creamy and well combined.
7. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for that extra cheesy finish!

What to Serve with Tortellini Soup

This soup pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping
• A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness

Tips for the Perfect Tortellini Soup

• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on them—7-8 minutes is perfect for a tender bite without turning mushy.
• Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage if you love heat!
• Extra Creamy: For a thicker, creamier broth, use a full cup of heavy cream, or add a little cornstarch slurry to the broth before adding the cream.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well, but it’s best to freeze it without the tortellini. Simply cook the tortellini fresh when you’re ready to serve. The rest of the soup will stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

FAQ

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Make the base soup without the tortellini, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, heat the soup and cook the tortellini fresh.

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is there a dairy-free version?
Omit the heavy cream and Parmesan. You can replace the cream with a dairy-free milk (like coconut or almond milk) for a lighter broth.

Conclusion

With its bold flavors and warming qualities, this Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and hearty enough to be a meal on its own. I hope you give it a try soon—and don’t forget to share your pictures on Pinterest and let me know how it turns out!

Looking for more cozy, Italian-inspired recipes? Be sure to check out my Classic Italian Pastina Soup, Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions, or my favorite, Creamy Cajun Pasta with Succulent Shrimp and Spicy Sausage. You’re bound to find more delicious options to warm up your kitchen!

Nutrition Info (per serving):

• Calories: 450
• Carbs: 30g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 25g

Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on Pinterest! I can’t wait to see your versions of this recipe.

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