This cozy tortellini soup is packed with cheesy pasta, fresh veggies, and a warm broth. It’s like a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick it is to make! Just toss everything in one pot, and in no time, you’ll have a tasty meal. Plus, the leftovers are great for lunch—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds fantastic flavor to your soup. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian version, try using lentils or crumbled tofu seasoned with Italian spices.
Chicken Broth: I love using low-sodium chicken broth for control over saltiness. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, vegetable broth is a great alternative. Homemade broth is also ideal if you have time!
Cheese Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is quick and convenient. If you want a healthier option, look for whole wheat or gluten-free tortellini. You can even sub in stuffed pasta like ravioli if tortellini isn’t available.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds nutrients and color to your soup. You can substitute with kale, Swiss chard, or even frozen spinach if you’re in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess water.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the soup, but you can skip it for a lighter version. For a creamy alternative, opt for coconut milk or a splash of non-dairy cream.
How Can I Make My Soup Extra Flavorful?
Enhancing flavors in your soup can really elevate the dish! Start by browning the sausage well for deep flavors. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a pop of brightness.
- Consider sautéing some diced carrots and celery with the onion for added sweetness.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme at the end of cooking to brighten the flavors.
- Experiment with spices like oregano or a hint of nutmeg to deepen the flavor profile.
How to Make Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious tortellini soup takes about 10-15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal that can be ready in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it off to keep things lighter.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage and stir it around. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This adds a nice flavor base to your soup!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, or until you can smell that yummy garlic aroma.
4. Combine the Broth and Tomatoes:
Carefully pour in the chicken broth, the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, and the tomato sauce. Mix in the Italian seasoning, optional crushed red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the whole mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Now, add the tortellini to the soup. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they’re tender and fluffy.
6. Add Spinach:
Stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for just another minute until it’s bright green and wilted.
7. Optional Creaminess:
If you want your soup to be creamy, stir in the heavy cream at this point. Mix well and taste to see if you need to adjust the seasoning.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls. Sprinkle each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a bit of chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your hearty and comforting tortellini soup!
This tortellini soup is a delightful bowl of warmth and flavor, perfect for any day when you need a little comfort food in your life!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, you can add them directly to the soup without thawing. Just keep in mind that they might need an extra minute or two to cook, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Substitute the Italian Sausage?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use ground turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based sausage alternative for added flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If it thickens a lot, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to add more veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the onion to soften before adding the broth!
