Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish packed with rich flavors. This soup features savory Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh spinach in a flavorful broth. It is a perfect meal for chilly nights or when you need a quick and satisfying dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal.
- Uses simple ingredients but delivers a restaurant-quality taste.
- A one-pot recipe, minimizing cleanup.
- A balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and pasta in one dish.
- Can be easily customized with different ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- Fresh spinach
- Onion
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Diced tomatoes
- Heavy cream (optional for a creamy version)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Italian seasoning
- Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft, followed by minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions until tender.
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt in the hot broth.
- (Optional) Add heavy cream for a creamy texture, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with mushrooms or white beans for a meat-free version.
- Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Creamy Version: Add more heavy cream for a rich and velvety texture.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower for a lighter meal.
- Different Greens: Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a different texture and taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Note that tortellini may become softer after thawing.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water.
FAQs
How can I make this soup thicker?
You can add heavy cream, a cornstarch slurry, or mashed potatoes to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well and can be added directly to the soup. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Mild or spicy Italian sausage is ideal, but you can use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage as well.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook the sausage and onion first, then add all ingredients except spinach and tortellini to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then add spinach and tortellini in the last 30 minutes.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, if you do not have tortellini, try using small pasta like orecchiette, rotini, or shells.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with garlic bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
Can I substitute spinach with another leafy green?
Yes, kale, Swiss chard, or arugula can be used instead of spinach.
How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy?
To avoid overcooking, add the tortellini toward the end of cooking and follow the package instructions for timing.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, omit the cheese tortellini and heavy cream, and use dairy-free pasta and a splash of coconut milk for creaminess.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, but for best texture, store the tortellini separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from getting too soft.
Conclusion
Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for any occasion. With its rich broth, hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach, it is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you make it creamy, spicy, or vegetarian, this soup is versatile and satisfying. Try it today and enjoy a warm and delicious bowl of homemade comfort.
Print
- Total Time: Soup
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is a hearty, flavorful meal loaded with Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and cheesy tortellini in a savory broth.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
-
Brown the Sausage:
- In a pot, cook sausage until browned.
-
Make the Broth:
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Bring to a boil.
-
Add Tortellini & Spinach:
- Stir in tortellini and cook for 5 minutes. Add spinach and serve.
Notes
- Use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- Add a splash of cream for a richer texture.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 servings
- Category: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian