Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Hearty and Comforting Dish

November 20, 2025March 25, 2025 by Chef Nate

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound Italian sausage

– 9 oz cheese tortellini

– 2 cups fresh spinach

Aromatics & Vegetables

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 medium carrots, diced

– 2 celery stalks, diced

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

Seasonings & Liquids

– 6 cups chicken broth

– 1 teaspoon dried basil

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 bay leaf

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

This Italian sausage tortellini soup brings comfort to any meal. The main ingredients, like Italian sausage, give it a rich flavor. You can choose mild or spicy sausage to fit your taste. The cheese tortellini adds a delightful texture, making each bite enjoyable. Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a nutritious boost.

Next, we have the aromatics and vegetables. The mix of onion, garlic, carrots, and celery creates a lovely base. These ingredients build layers of flavor in the soup. Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness that balance the richness of the sausage.

To finish, we need seasonings and liquids. The chicken broth is essential for depth. Dried basil and oregano add warmth, while the bay leaf enhances the overall taste. Olive oil gives a nice richness, and salt and pepper help to perfect the flavor.

This combination of ingredients makes the soup hearty and satisfying. Enjoy the process of making this warm dish, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Sausage

– First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

– Add 1 pound of Italian sausage to the pot. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.

– Cook the sausage for about 5 to 7 minutes until it is browned and fully cooked.

– Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the fat behind.

Sautéing the Vegetables

– Next, add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Use 1 medium onion, 2 medium carrots, and 2 celery stalks.

– Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften.

– Stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. This will boost the flavor.

Bringing It All Together

– Now, add a can of diced tomatoes (with juice), 6 cups of chicken broth, and the cooked sausage back into the pot.

– Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1 bay leaf.

– Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes to blend the flavors.

Adding Tortellini and Spinach

– Add a package of cheese tortellini (9 oz) to the pot. Cook it based on the package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes.

– Finally, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until it wilts.

– Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Flavor

To get the best taste, adjust the seasonings. Add more salt or pepper if needed. You can also try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a nice kick. Herbs such as fresh basil or parsley can brighten the soup. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. It makes a big difference!

Cooking Techniques

Choosing the right pot is key. A large pot or Dutch oven works best for this soup. It helps cook everything evenly. When cooking the tortellini, make sure to follow the package instructions. Cook them until they are al dente. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose their shape.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the soup with crusty bread for a hearty meal. It’s great for dipping! For garnishing, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil add color and flavor. You can also serve it with a side salad for extra crunch. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

You can easily adjust this recipe to fit your needs. If you want a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty choices. For a vegetarian version, swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based alternative. You can also add more vegetables to keep it hearty.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to play with the veggies! You can add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These add great taste and texture. If you like spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Adjusting the spice level can make this soup as mild or as fiery as you like.

Tortellini Substitutes

If you can’t find tortellini, don’t worry! You can use other pasta types like shells or bowties. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. You can also make homemade tortellini for a special touch. It’s fun to make and tastes amazing! Store-bought tortellini saves time and is just as delicious.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

After enjoying your Italian sausage tortellini soup, store leftovers in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep it fresh. This soup stays good for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator. When you store it, let it cool down first. This helps avoid steam build-up in the container.

Freezing Instructions

To freeze the soup, let it cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat until hot. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally.

Shelf Life

Expect the soup to stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. If you freeze it, it will taste best within 3 months. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or off color. If the soup looks different or smells bad, it’s best to throw it out. Always trust your senses to keep your food safe!

FAQs

How do I make this soup in a slow cooker?

To make this soup in a slow cooker, start by browning the sausage in a pan. After that, add the cooked sausage and all other ingredients to the slow cooker. Set it on low for about 6 hours or high for 3 hours. Stir in the tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows it to stay tender. If you want a thicker soup, let it cook a little longer without the lid.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, you can use other types of sausage. Sweet Italian sausage works well if you prefer mild flavors. You can also try chicken sausage for a lighter option. For a kick, spicy sausage adds nice heat. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to match the sausage’s flavor.

Is this soup healthy?

This soup can be healthy! It contains lean protein from the sausage and many veggies. Each serving has about 300 calories, depending on the sausage choice. Using fresh spinach boosts vitamins and minerals. If you want it even healthier, skip the cheese or reduce the amount. Enjoy this soup as part of a balanced diet.

In this blog post, we explored a delicious soup recipe featuring Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions, essential tips, and fun variations to suit your taste. Remember, you can easily adjust flavors or try different pasta types. This soup is not only tasty but also flexible for dietary needs. Whether you enjoy it fresh or as leftovers, it’s a comforting meal that brings warmth to any table. Try it out, and make it your ow