Sausage Tortellini Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Sausage Tortellini Soup: Just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting flavors, and a bowl brimming with warmth. Have you ever craved a dish that feels like a hug from the inside out? This is it! This hearty soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a culinary journey that combines the rustic charm of Italian sausage with the delicate elegance of cheese-filled tortellini.

While the exact origins of Sausage Tortellini Soup are debated, its roots are firmly planted in the rich culinary traditions of Italy. Tortellini itself has a fascinating history, with some legends tracing its creation back to the goddess Venus! Whether or not that’s true, the combination of pasta and savory broth is a timeless classic.

What makes this soup so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slightly spicy, savory sausage contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy tortellini. The broth, often infused with herbs and vegetables, ties everything together in a symphony of flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This is a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. I find that everyone, from picky eaters to seasoned foodies, enjoys a steaming bowl of this delightful soup. So, let’s get cooking and create some magic in the kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!), casings removed
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best!)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Browning the Sausage and Sautéing the Vegetables

1. First, let’s get that sausage browned! In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble it well so you don’t have big chunks.
2. Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside in a bowl. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – that’s where all the flavor is!
3. Now, let’s get those veggies going. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender, not browned. This is called a mirepoix and it’s the base of so many delicious soups!
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be amazing at this point!

Building the Soup Base

1. Time to add the tomatoes! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are called fond, and they add tons of flavor to the soup.
2. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
3. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. This is a great time to relax and let the soup do its thing!
4. After simmering, return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and Parmesan cheese are already salty, so start with a little and add more as needed.

Adding the Tortellini and Finishing Touches

1. Now for the star of the show: the tortellini! Add the cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and float to the surface. Be careful not to overcook them, or they will become mushy.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream will make the soup rich and creamy, and the Parmesan cheese will add a salty, savory flavor. Stir until the cheese is melted and the cream is fully incorporated.
3. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.

Serving and Enjoying

1. Ladle the Sausage Tortellini Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add them along with the tortellini.
• Use different types of sausage: You can use different types of Italian sausage, such as sweet, mild, or hot. You can also use other types of sausage, such as chicken sausage or turkey sausage.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more vegetables to make it a heartier soup.
• Add a can of beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or kidney beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Use different types of pasta: If you don’t have tortellini, you can use other types of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or ditalini.
• Make it in the slow cooker: Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortellini and heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the tortellini just before serving, as they can become mushy if stored in the soup.
• Freeze it: This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Add the tortellini just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Serve with a side salad.
• Serve as a starter or a main course.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 450-550
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 30-40g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cold day. It’s easy to make and can be customized to your liking. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

This Sausage Tortellini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen, especially on those chilly evenings when you need something comforting and satisfying. The combination of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, flavorful broth is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out. But what truly makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage – spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick, or even chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also add more vegetables to the mix. Spinach, kale, or even chopped zucchini would be fantastic additions, boosting the nutritional value and adding a pop of color.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

For a complete meal, serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping into that delicious broth. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dollop of pesto on top will elevate the flavors even further. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an extra creamy texture. Looking for variations? Consider these ideas: * **Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup:** Add a can of crushed tomatoes and a splash of heavy cream for a richer, creamier version. * **Spicy Sausage Tortellini Soup:** Use spicy Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. * **Vegetarian Tortellini Soup:** Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. * **Lemon Herb Tortellini Soup:** Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano, for a bright and flavorful twist. This Sausage Tortellini Soup is also incredibly easy to adapt to different dietary needs. Use gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free option, or dairy-free cheese and cream alternatives for a dairy-free version. The possibilities are endless! I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a potluck with friends, this soup is sure to be a hit. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And most importantly, don’t forget to have fun in the kitchen! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to improve my recipes. Happy cooking! Let me know if you enjoyed this Sausage Tortellini Soup.

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