Okay, flavor adventurers, get ready to lose your minds! I’m about to share my soul-warming, taste-bud-thrilling Sausage and Tortellini Soup recipe. Seriously, this isn’t just soup; it’s a flavor bomb packed into a bowl!
I’ll never forget the first time I had a version of this soup. Picture this: I’m in a tiny Italian trattoria, tucked away on a cobblestone street. The air is thick with garlic and oregano, and a steaming bowl of something magical lands in front of me. It was a creamy, dreamy, Sausage and Tortellini Soup that sent shockwaves of happiness through my entire being.
Right then, I knew I had to recreate that experience in my own kitchen. I spent weeks tinkering, testing, and tweaking until I reached peak flavor perfection. Let me tell you, there were some major fails along the way. Too bland. Too watery. Just plain WEIRD. But then, BAM! The breakthrough came when I added a secret ingredient. It was pure magic!
This recipe represents everything Cuba Queen is about: bold flavors, unapologetic deliciousness, and transforming everyday meals into celebrations. We’re talking serious comfort food with a fiery kick. This hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup is the ultimate way to warm up your kitchen and your soul.
I am beyond hyped to share this recipe with you. Are you ready to ditch the boring and dive into a world of flavor? Let’s DO this!
Ingredients for the Best Sausage Tortellini Soup
This Sausage and Tortellini Soup ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! The quality of your ingredients really shines through. I always get my Italian sausage from the local butcher. You’ll taste the difference!
- 1 pound Italian sausage (I prefer spicy, but sweet works too!)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat!)
- 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (the secret to that dreamy creaminess!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
The secret to epic Sausage and Tortellini Soup is using crushed tomatoes instead of diced. They add a smoother, richer texture to the broth. Trust me on this one!
Splurge on good quality Parmesan cheese for serving. It adds a salty, nutty finish that takes this Sausage and Tortellini Soup to the next level. Look for Parmigiano-Reggiano if you want the real deal.
If you’re watching your budget, you can use frozen spinach instead of fresh. Just make sure to thaw it and squeeze out the excess water before adding it to the soup. It works perfectly in this flavorful Sausage Tortellini Soup.
For a vegetarian version, swap out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage crumbles. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The base flavors are everything!
Store any leftover spinach in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This will keep it fresh and ready to use in your Sausage and Tortellini Soup or other dishes.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- First, remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into a large pot or Dutch oven. Cook over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. We’re building flavor from the get-go!
- Add the olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step – it’s crucial for developing the base flavor of your Sausage and Tortellini Soup recipe.
- Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a simmer. Don’t stress – your Sausage and Tortellini Soup is going to be incredible!
- Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender. Here’s where most people mess up their Sausage and Tortellini Soup – they overcook the tortellini! Watch them closely.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes. The spinach adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients to your Sausage Tortellini Soup. Plus, it tastes AMAZING!
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Heat through, but don’t boil. Pro tip for Sausage and Tortellini Soup perfection: adding the cream at the end prevents it from curdling.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, every sausage is different, so adjust the seasoning accordingly. In my kitchen, this simple Sausage and Tortellini Soup takes exactly 30 minutes from start to finish!
- Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Take a moment to admire your masterpiece! This is where your Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup transforms into pure magic.
While your Sausage and Tortellini Soup is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Trust me, your followers will thank you.
Your Sausage and Tortellini Soup should look vibrant, smell amazing, and feel comforting in your soul. If it doesn’t, adjust the seasoning until it does.
Presentation Tips
Presentation is key to making this Sausage Tortellini Soup truly unforgettable. I love to ladle it into rustic bowls and top it generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra visual appeal.
People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this creamy Sausage and Tortellini Soup at dinner parties! It’s always a hit and disappears in minutes. I like to serve it with crusty bread for dipping. It’s the perfect pairing to soak up all that delicious broth.
This Sausage and Tortellini Soup absolutely slays at dinner parties! It’s the ultimate comfort food with a touch of elegance. I’ve even served it in shot glasses as an appetizer for a fancy cocktail party.
For a heartier meal, serve this Sausage and Tortellini Soup with a side salad. A simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
This Sausage and Tortellini Soup is perfect for a chilly fall evening, a cozy winter night, or any time you need a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s also great for meal prepping – it tastes even better the next day!
Got leftovers? Use them to make a Sausage and Tortellini Soup bake! Layer the soup with cooked pasta and cheese in a baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden brown. Boom! A whole new dish.
During the holidays, I add roasted butternut squash to my creamy Sausage and Tortellini Soup for a festive twist. The sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with the savory sausage. You can also use the butternut squash soup recipe on Cuba Queen as the base for this soup!
FAQs About Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Q: Can I make this Sausage and Tortellini Soup spicier?
A: YES! Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes to the soup while it’s simmering, or use a spicier Italian sausage. You can also add a dash of hot sauce to each bowl before serving. We like things HOT here at Cuba Queen.
Q: What if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
A: Diced tomatoes will work in a pinch, but the texture won’t be quite as smooth. You can also use tomato sauce or tomato puree. I’ve even used strained tomatoes, but I would only recommend that as a last resort.
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes, you can, but add them to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking. Frozen tortellini takes longer to cook than fresh. I’ve tested this many times, trust me!
Q: How do I know when my Sausage and Tortellini Soup is perfectly done?
A: The tortellini should be tender, the spinach should be wilted, and the soup should be heated through. The flavors should be melded together beautifully. Taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Q: Can I make this Sausage and Tortellini Soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the sausage and onions in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then add the tortellini and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Voila! An easy Sausage and Tortellini Soup.
Q: Can I freeze this Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
A: The soup itself freezes well, but the tortellini may become a bit mushy when thawed. If you plan to freeze it, cook the tortellini separately and add it to the soup after reheating. Or make it fresh!
Q: What other vegetables can I add to this Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
A: The possibilities are endless! Try adding carrots, celery, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just add them to the pot along with the onions and garlic. If you love a creamy soup, for more bold flavor adventures, check out my Creamy Reuben Soup recipe!
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Sausage and Tortellini Soup!
This Sausage Tortellini Soup represents everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, comforting warmth, and creating unforgettable culinary experiences. I know you’re going to absolutely love this recipe.
My Sausage and Tortellini Soup Power Tips:
- Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini! They should be tender, not mushy.
- Add the heavy cream at the end to prevent curdling.
I’ve created so many variations of this Sausage Tortellini Soup over the years. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Spicy Sausage Tortellini Soup: Add extra red pepper flakes and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach: Use a generous amount of fresh spinach for a vibrant and healthy twist.
- Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup: Add more heavy cream for an even richer and creamier texture. You can check out another creamy soup recipe with similar flavors here: Creamy Italian Sausage & Tortellini Soup.
The Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach version always gets the biggest reactions. People love the combination of the savory sausage and the fresh spinach.
I have complete confidence that you can make this Sausage Tortellini Soup your signature dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for my Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!
Now go forth and create some Sausage and Tortellini Soup memories! Share your results with me – I can’t wait to see what you create. For even more inspiration, check out Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe (So Creamy!) | The Kitchn and Sausage Tortellini Soup – The Cozy Cook for different takes on this classic soup. Let’s bring these flavors together!
The Sausage and Tortellini Soup is calling! Get cooking, flavor adventurers!
Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this hearty Sausage and Tortellini Soup! This comforting soup is packed with Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and flavorful vegetables in a rich tomato broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
- Stir in the chopped spinach just before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini.