Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

Sausage and tortellini soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the savory taste of Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables in a rich, warming broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, as it comes together quickly and satisfies even the hungriest of appetites. Below, you’ll find an easy-to-follow guide to making this delicious soup.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – 1 lb (450g), removed from casings
• Cheese tortellini – 1 package (10-12 oz), fresh or frozen
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
• Onion – 1 medium, diced
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
• Carrots – 2, peeled and sliced
• Celery stalks – 2, sliced
• Chicken stock – 6 cups
• Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (14 oz)
• Spinach or kale – 2 cups, roughly chopped
• Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper – to taste

Garnish

• Parmesan cheese – grated, for serving
• Fresh parsley or basil – chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Pour in the chicken stock and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Add the Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini and Greens

1. Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes).
2. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking until wilted.

Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley or basil.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: This soup pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a simple salad.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so add a splash of stock or water when reheating.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so without the tortellini, as it can become mushy when thawed. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Sausage Options: For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage. For a milder flavor, sweet or mild Italian sausage works well.
• Pasta Tip: If you prefer a firmer texture, cook the tortellini separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
• Greens Substitute: Substitute spinach or kale with Swiss chard or arugula for a different flavor profile.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef Rachael Ray: “Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors of the soup and balance the richness of the sausage.”
• Chef Ina Garten: “Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for finishing the dish to add a nutty, savory depth that enhances the entire soup.”

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable stock for a vegetarian version.

2. What other types of tortellini can I use? You can use meat-filled or spinach and ricotta tortellini for added variety.

3. How do I thicken the soup? For a thicker broth, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, use about 3-4 medium fresh tomatoes, peeled and chopped. Simmer longer to break down the tomatoes.

5. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot? Yes, use the sauté function to brown the sausage and vegetables. Add the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings, then pressure cook on high for 5 minutes. Add tortellini and greens on the sauté setting until cooked.

6. How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy? Cook just until al dente and avoid over-simmering after adding the tortellini.

7. What’s a good side dish for this soup? A crusty baguette or garlic knots pair wonderfully for soaking up the rich broth.

8. Can I add cream for a richer texture? Yes, a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half can be stirred in just before serving for a creamy twist.

9. How can I add more vegetables? Diced zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms are great additions to boost the vegetable content.

10. Is this soup kid-friendly? Yes, it’s often a hit with kids thanks to the savory sausage and fun tortellini shapes.

Enjoy making this sausage and tortellini soup for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s full of rich flavors and comforting textures.