Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food. This rich and hearty soup blends sweet potatoes, spinach, garlic, and three-cheese tortellini in a creamy broth that’s simply irresistible. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it comes together in just 40 minutes and requires minimal cleanup with only one pot used!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup! All the magic happens in one pot, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sausage with sweet potatoes and spices creates a savory depth that makes each spoonful delightful.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the protein to suit your taste.
• Comforting Meal: Rich and creamy, this soup is perfect for warming you up on chilly days or cozy nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large high-sided pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large high-sided pot: This allows for ample space to combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring and preventing scratches on your cookware while mixing flavors.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent results every time.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 12 oz sausage (such as spicy Italian sausage)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
• 1 sweet potato (large, or use 2 small, peeled, cubed)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

For Additional Flavor

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

For the Broth and Finish

• 6 cups water
• 8 oz tortellini (I used three-cheese tortellini – Buitoni brand)
• 4 oz fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons fresh thyme

How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large, high-sided pot over medium heat.
2. Add crumbled sausage to the pot.
3. Cook for several minutes until browned, stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Drain any excess grease.
4. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and paprika.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Spices

1. Stir in the peeled and cubed sweet potato, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste.
2. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.

Step 3: Create the Broth

1. Pour in 6 cups of water; no need for chicken stock as the sausage adds plenty of flavor.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil while stirring well to dissolve the tomato paste completely.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

1. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer.
2. Cover with a lid and cook for approximately 15 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Add Tortellini

1. Add tortellini directly into the pot.
2. Cover again and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes).

Step 6: Finish with Spinach and Cream

1. Stir in fresh spinach right at the end until slightly wilted.
2. Remove from heat; gently stir in heavy cream.

Step 7: Season to Taste

1. Taste soup before adding salt, as sausages can be salty; if needed, season with about ¼ teaspoon of salt or less.
2. Top with fresh thyme before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your comforting bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious soup.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley – Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for added flavor and a pop of color.
• Chopped Thyme – Use the fresh thyme from your recipe as a lovely garnish that complements the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – Serve slices of warm sourdough bread for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth.
• Garlic Bread – Offer garlic bread sticks on the side for a flavorful twist that complements the soup’s richness.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and freshness, balancing the creaminess of the soup.
• Mixed Green Salad – Lightly dressed mixed greens provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Bowls – Present each serving in individual bowls to create a cozy dining atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings.

How to Perfect Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Select high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste before adding salt; sometimes, the sausage is salty enough on its own.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini – Follow package instructions closely to avoid mushy pasta; al dente works best.
• Add Spinach at the End – Stir in spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and slightly wilted, preserving nutrients.
• Experiment with Broths – For added depth, substitute water with vegetable or chicken broth if desired.
• Store Properly – Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container and consume within 3 days for best quality.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup enhances the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make for an irresistible addition.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing counterpoint.
3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and basil adds a crunchy texture.
4. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted veggies brings color and nutrition to your dinner table.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese are perfect for soaking up any leftover broth.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa add heartiness while complementing the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Incorrect Cooking Time: Overcooking the tortellini can make them mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not adjusting for the saltiness of the sausage can lead to bland soup. Taste and season accordingly, especially if using a less salty sausage.
• Skipping the Grease Drain: Failing to drain excess grease after cooking sausage can lead to a greasy soup. Always drain it to keep your broth light and creamy.
• Adding Spinach Too Early: Adding spinach too soon will cause it to wilt excessively. Stir it in just before serving for a fresh taste and vibrant color.
• Forgetting to Stir: Ignoring the need to stir occasionally can result in sticking at the bottom of the pot. Stirring ensures even cooking and prevents burning.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup may expand when frozen.

Reheating Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring every minute until heated evenly.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pot, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, here are some answers.

Can I use other types of meat?

You can definitely swap out the sausage for ground chicken, beef, or turkey according to your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of water.

What if I don’t have tortellini?

You can use any pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta used.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or swapping proteins according to your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!