If you’re looking for a heartwarming meal that’s as inviting as it is satisfying, Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the answer. This one-pot wonder packs a cozy punch with plump cheese tortellini, zesty Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a lush, velvety broth that brings everything together beautifully. Whether you’re seeking a simple weeknight dinner or something extra comforting to share with family and friends, this soup truly shines. Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is my go-to for chilly evenings and easy entertaining—I guarantee it’ll earn a spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The absolute best thing about this recipe is how every ingredient shines—nothing fancy required, just real, delicious building blocks. These staples come together in the pot to create layers of flavor, creamy texture, and all those classic soup colors we love. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few tips to help each element taste its best:
- Italian sausage (1 lb, mild or hot): The heart of the soup—choose your preferred spice level, and don’t be afraid to break it up in the pan for extra flavor in every bite.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds balanced richness and helps brown the sausage perfectly.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Sautéing onion gives the soup aromatic depth and subtle sweetness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is essential for that irresistible foundation of flavor—don’t skip it!
- Chicken broth (4 cups): Provides the savory, soul-warming base for your soup—it’s worth using a good-quality broth here.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): These help balance the creaminess and add a lively color and tang.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A perfect blend of dried herbs to unify every spoonful—use store-bought or your own mix.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): For a touch of heat—add them if you like things zesty!
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini (9 oz): These pillowy pasta bites are the star—fresh or refrigerated is best for a fast, tender result.
- Fresh spinach (3 cups): Adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthy flavor—just stir it in at the end to wilt.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): This is where the “creamy” magic happens—you can swap in half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Salt and pepper: Season generously to bring all the flavors together—always taste before serving.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): The unbeatable finishing touch for savory richness and aroma.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is all about developing rich, savory flavor, so let the sausage get nicely browned (about 5 to 6 minutes). If there’s any excess grease, you can carefully remove it with a spoon or drain it off.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion directly to the pot. Cook for about 3 minutes, just until it softens and turns a little translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds—this releases all those fragrant oils. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing at this point!
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the Italian seasoning and, if you like a kick, the crushed red pepper flakes. Bring everything up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it all simmer together for about 10 minutes. This gives the flavors time to meld and deepen.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions (usually 3 to 5 minutes), just until the tortellini float to the top and are tender. Be careful not to overcook—they’ll keep cooking in the pot, so pull them off the heat while still plump.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream
Stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt almost instantly, giving the soup a vibrant green swirl. Pour in the heavy cream last, stirring gently to combine. Take a quick taste and season with salt and pepper until it’s just right for you.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the warm, creamy soup into bowls. Sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan for extra depth and richness. Enjoy immediately while everything is at its creamy, steamy best!
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Garnishes
Garnishing this soup is half the fun! A generous shaving of Parmesan brings a salty, nutty finish, while a sprinkle of fresh basil or chopped parsley adds freshness and a pop of color. If you’re feeling extra, a drizzle of good olive oil or a grind of black pepper right before serving elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup pairs perfectly with a crusty hunk of Italian bread or a soft, chewy baguette—ideal for dipping and soaking up all that luscious broth. For a lighter counterpart, consider a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette or add roasted vegetables for a cozy, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, serve the soup in rustic stoneware bowls or even bread bowls for a restaurant-worthy effect. You can portion it into mini mugs or ramekins for a party appetizer or casual gathering. If you love a themed dinner, sprinkle extra herbs and top with heart-shaped croutons to make your Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup pop for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the tortellini will continue to soak up some broth as it sits, you may notice the soup thickening—just add a splash of extra broth or cream when reheating to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
Freezing
You can freeze Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, but the texture of the tortellini may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the tortellini and cream. When ready to enjoy, reheat the base, add fresh tortellini and cream, and finish cooking as directed.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to keep the cream from separating. If reheating a single serving, the microwave works well—use medium power and stir occasionally. Add broth or a splash of cream if needed to loosen the soup back to perfection.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen tortellini a minute or two earlier to allow a bit more time for them to cook through. Keep an eye out—they’re done when they float and are tender to the bite.
Is there a way to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes—look for gluten-free tortellini at specialty markets or swap in gluten-free gnocchi or even white beans for a creative twist. Always double-check your sausage and broth ingredients for hidden gluten as well.
What vegetables can I substitute for spinach?
Kale is a fantastic alternative that holds up well, especially if you prefer a heartier green. Chopped Swiss chard or even arugula could work in a pinch, depending on your flavor cravings and what’s in your fridge.
How can I make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage and pile in extra greens for a veggie-forward spin without sacrificing any of that crave-worthy comfort.
Can I prepare the soup in advance for a party?
Certainly! Make the soup up to the point just before adding tortellini and cream. When ready to serve, reheat gently, then add the tortellini to cook fresh and finish with cream and spinach for that just-cooked texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s really nothing like a steaming bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup to bring everyone together around the table. It’s wonderfully hearty, completely comforting, and endlessly customizable. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and let it add a little warmth and joy to your week—and don’t forget to share it with people you love!
Print
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup. Loaded with Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a luscious creamy broth, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional Ingredients:
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, cook sausage in olive oil until browned.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cook until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer.
- Cook Tortellini: Add tortellini, cook until tender.
- Finish the Soup: Stir in spinach, cream, season, and serve topped with Parmesan.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Kale can be substituted for spinach for a heartier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 1080 mg
- Fat: 31 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg
