Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Comfort in a Bowl: Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup (One-Pot Wonder for Cozy Nights)
When the temperature drops and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, soul-soothing bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup to wrap you in a cozy embrace. Picture this: decadent three-cheese tortellini bobbing in a luscious, creamy broth, mingling with tender sweet potatoes, vibrant spinach, and zesty Italian sausage. Each spoonful is a delightful explosion of flavor that dances on your palate, making it an irresistible hug in a bowl. Plus, with only one pot to clean, you’ll have more time to enjoy this comfy meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this dish, as it combines convenience with incredible taste.
– Big, Bold Flavors: The spicy Italian sausage gives this soup a robust kick, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of the potatoes.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, this recipe serves six and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
– Flexible & Fast: With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
– Make-Ahead Magic: This soup is perfect for meal prep—just store it in the fridge and reheat for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking fun, let’s gather our ingredients! The magic of this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup lies in its fresh, wholesome components. The sweet potatoes and three-cheese tortellini are true flavor game-changers that elevate this dish to new heights!
Here’s what you’ll need:
– 12 oz sausage (such as spicy Italian sausage)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
– 1 large sweet potato (or 2 small), peeled and cubed
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 6 cups water
– 8 oz tortellini (I used three-cheese tortellini, refrigerated, Buitoni brand)
– 4 oz fresh spinach
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 4 tablespoons fresh thyme
*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*
Variations
The beauty of the Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is its versatility! Feel free to mix things up with these creative variations:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap out the tortellini for gluten-free pasta or use chickpea pasta for added protein.
– Add Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or white beans for an extra protein punch.
– Make it Spicier: Crank up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
– Swap the Broth: For an even richer flavor, opt for chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
– Cheese it Up: Add a sprinkle of parmesan or mozzarella on top for a cheesy finish that’s to die for!
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Now that we’re all set, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a creamy masterpiece.
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook for several minutes, stirring frequently, until it’s beautifully browned. Drain any excess grease, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning and paprika to infuse those bold flavors.
Step 2: Add the Good Stuff
Toss in the peeled and cubed sweet potato, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir everything together for a minute, allowing those heavenly aromas to fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Make the Base
Pour in 6 cups of water. Here’s a pro tip: You won’t need chicken stock because the sausage brings all the flavor to this soup. Bring it to a gentle boil, mixing well to ensure the tomato paste dissolves completely.
Step 4: Simmer and Soften
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer (a gentle bubbling will do). Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini, cover again, and cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Make sure to check the cooking time on the tortellini package for the perfect texture.
Step 6: Finish with Greens and Cream
Add the fresh spinach, stirring until it just wilts into the soup. Then, remove the pot from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream, creating that luxurious, creamy finish.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and season with salt and additional red pepper flakes if you desire more heat. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh thyme for that aromatic touch!
Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, keep these pro tips in mind:
– Cook the Sausage Well: Make sure your sausage is fully cooked before adding the other ingredients for maximum flavor.
– Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps deepen the flavors; patience is key!
– Taste as You Go: Adjust the seasoning according to the saltiness of your sausage. Always add salt gradually.
– Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh spinach and herbs to elevate the taste and nutrition of the soup.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Garnishes
Top your soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan, a drizzle of olive oil, or a handful of fresh herbs for a beautiful finish that delights the senses.
Side Dishes
Pair your creamy soup with crusty Italian bread or a vibrant side salad for a well-rounded meal. A little garlic bread on the side is always a winning choice!
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in individual bowls for a cozy family dinner, or ladle it into mason jars for a fun lunch option. You could even create a soup bar with various toppings for a whimsical twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, ready for your next meal!
Freezing
You can freeze this soup, but for the best results, add the tortellini fresh when you reheat. Freezing the tortellini can alter its texture.
Reheating
Reheat the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or stock to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter option that works beautifully in this recipe. Just season it well!
Is this recipe spicy?
It can be! If you opt for spicy Italian sausage, it’ll have a kick. For a milder version, use sweet sausage and adjust the red pepper flakes to taste.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap the tortellini for gluten-free pasta or chickpea pasta. Make sure to check any broth you use as well!
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can fully prepare the soup, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for a quick and easy meal later in the week.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish to warm your heart and home! With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying it solo, each bite is pure comfort. Give it a try, and let the comforting magic unfold! Happy cooking!
