Sausage and Tortellini Soup

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Warm, comforting, and bursting with flavor, Sausage and Tortellini Soup is the perfect meal for cozy evenings or busy weeknights. This rich and creamy soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and vibrant greens, all swimming in a flavorful broth. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own yet versatile enough to pair with your favorite sides.

The combination of creamy textures, seasoned sausage, and delicate pasta creates a satisfying balance that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just preparing something warm for yourself, this dish is a winner for both flavor and simplicity.

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Why You’ll Love This Sausage and Tortellini Soup

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich and Creamy: The blend of sausage, broth, and tortellini creates a luxurious and comforting texture.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the combination of cheesy pasta and savory sausage.
• Versatile: Swap out the greens, sausage type, or seasoning to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it even better the next day.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make Sausage and Tortellini Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand is key. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is important:

• Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: A sturdy, heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for browning sausage evenly and maintaining a consistent simmer for the broth.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Essential for breaking up the sausage as it cooks and ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping herbs, garlic, and any additional veggies.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup easier and ensures you get the perfect mix of broth, sausage, and tortellini in each bowl.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors.

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Preparation Tips

• Pre-Chop Ingredients: Dice your garlic, onions, and any vegetables before you start cooking. This keeps the process smooth.
• Drain Excess Fat: After browning the sausage, drain excess grease to prevent the soup from feeling too oily.
• Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks quickly and has a more delicate texture than frozen alternatives.
• Add Greens Last: Stir in spinach or kale at the end to keep them vibrant and fresh.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper in stages to achieve the perfect flavor.

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Ingredients for This Sausage and Tortellini Soup

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on your preference)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for browning the sausage)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
• 2 cups heavy cream (for a rich, creamy texture)
• 1 package (9 oz) fresh cheese tortellini
• 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale for a heartier option)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the olive oil and the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking the sausage into crumbles with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors develop.

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Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the fresh tortellini directly to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions (typically 3-5 minutes) until tender and heated through.

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Step 5: Add the Cream and Greens

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir well to combine. Add the fresh spinach and let it wilt in the hot broth for 1-2 minutes.

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Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

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Notes

• Sausage Choice: Mild Italian sausage offers a classic flavor, but spicy sausage can add a delightful kick. Feel free to mix both for a balanced taste.
• Broth Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) before adding the cream.
• Greens Variety: While spinach is common, kale or Swiss chard makes an excellent alternative for added texture.
• Tortellini Options: Fresh tortellini is ideal, but frozen tortellini can be used — just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Tortellini: Tortellini cooks quickly, so avoid boiling it too long or it may become mushy. Add it toward the end for best results.
• Skipping the Fat Drain: Failing to drain excess sausage grease can make the soup overly oily. Draining it ensures a cleaner, lighter broth.
• Adding Cream Too Early: Pouring cream in while the broth is still boiling may cause it to curdle. Lower the heat before adding it for a smooth texture.
• Forgetting to Taste: Flavors can vary depending on your sausage and broth. Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
• Overloading with Salt: Since sausage and Parmesan are naturally salty, season gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.

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Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so consider adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
• Freezing: While the sausage and broth freeze well, tortellini can become mushy after thawing. If you plan to freeze the soup, cook the base (sausage, broth, and seasonings) without the tortellini. When ready to serve, thaw the soup, bring it to a simmer, and add fresh tortellini to cook just before serving.
• Reheating: Warm the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop to prevent the cream from separating. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (Approximate Values):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

These values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes until the pasta is tender.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?

For extra heat, use spicy Italian sausage, add more crushed red pepper flakes, or stir in a dash of hot sauce before serving.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles or mushrooms for a rich, savory flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used as a lighter alternative, though the soup may be less rich. Adding a bit of cornstarch slurry can help maintain thickness.

5. How do I prevent the tortellini from getting soggy?

If you expect leftovers, cook the tortellini separately and add it to individual portions just before serving.

6. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the onions first, then add everything except the cream and tortellini to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, then stir in the cream and tortellini about 20 minutes before serving.

7. Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms make great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.

8. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup before adding the cream. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

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Conclusion

Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a comforting, creamy dish that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. Its simple preparation makes it perfect for weeknights, while its hearty nature ensures everyone leaves the table feeling full and happy. Whether you’re serving it alongside a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy!

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