Sausage Tortellini Soup

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to chase away the chill of a winter evening. Recently, I made a delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup that has quickly become a family favorite. The combination of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and tender cheese tortellini creates a hearty meal that is both comforting and satisfying. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and even my picky eater went back for seconds! The flavors meld beautifully, and the addition of fresh spinach gives it a vibrant pop of color and nutrition. If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious soup that warms the soul, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Use a spatula to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
2. Prepare the Soup Base: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients.
3. Cook the Soup: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the flavors have melded together and the onions are tender.
4. Add the Tortellini and Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini and chopped spinach to the slow cooker. Stir in the heavy cream.
5. Finish and Serve: Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 350 kcal
• Total Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Sodium: 1,000 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Dietary Fiber: 3 g
• Sugars: 6 g
• Protein: 16 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours on low or 3 hours on high
• Total Time: Approximately 5 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)

How to Serve

• Serve the soup hot in large bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
• Accompany with:
• Crusty bread for dipping.
• A simple side salad for added freshness.
• Garlic bread for a classic pairing.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Quality Sausage: Use good-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. You can opt for spicy sausage if you prefer a kick.
2. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots or celery for additional texture and nutrition.
3. Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup before adding the tortellini and spinach.
4. Make It Ahead: This soup can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
5. Adjust the Creaminess: For a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half or milk.

Recipe Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Substitute cheese tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for added heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Wine Pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the soup.
• Herb Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic touch.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano, for a unique flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them directly to the soup without thawing, and they will cook through during the final cooking phase.

2. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup base for extra heat.

3. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Simply brown the sausage in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer for about 30-40 minutes.

4. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

6. Can I add beans to this soup?
Yes! Canned white beans or kidney beans would make a great addition for extra protein and fiber.

7. Is this soup gluten-free?
The recipe is not gluten-free due to the tortellini. However, you can use gluten-free tortellini or omit it altogether.

8. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cream cheese or coconut cream and skip the cheese garnishes.

9. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

10. How can I thicken the soup?
You can thicken the soup by adding a slurry of cornstarch and water or by blending a portion of the soup until smooth.

Conclusion

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The rich flavors of Italian sausage, combined with the creaminess of the soup and the delightful texture of cheese tortellini, create a satisfying meal that warms the heart. With its simple preparation and delicious results, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful flavors and the smiles it brings to your family’s faces!

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