Hearty Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup

Hearty Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort dish for chilly evenings or when you crave something warm and filling. With a rich broth, savory sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach, this soup is a delightful blend of flavors. The addition of heavy cream brings a luscious creaminess, while the Parmesan cheese offers the final touch that ties all the flavors together. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is not only satisfying but also relatively quick to prepare. Plus, it’s flexible! You can easily substitute ingredients like kale for spinach or chicken sausage for Italian sausage to suit your preferences. Now, let’s dive into this cozy recipe that will become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced 🧅
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil 🌿
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
• 3 cups fresh spinach 🌿
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish) 🧀

Preparation:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Break the sausage into small pieces as it cooks, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. If you’re using a leaner sausage, like chicken or turkey, you may need less cooking time.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic directly into the pot. Stir frequently and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft, which should take about 5 minutes. The garlic will become fragrant during this time, infusing the base of the soup with its robust aroma.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour the 6 cups of chicken broth into the pot along with the can of diced tomatoes. Stir to combine the sausage, onions, and garlic with the liquids. Now, it’s time to season the soup: add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional if you like it spicy), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the seasonings into the broth.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Tortellini

Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it starts to bubble lightly, add the cheese tortellini directly into the broth. Let the tortellini cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until they are tender and cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

Once the tortellini are cooked, add the fresh spinach into the pot. Stir gently and let the spinach wilt, which should take about 2 minutes. After the spinach has wilted, reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine, allowing the cream to integrate into the soup and create a creamy texture.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you prefer an extra kick of spice.

COOKING Note:

• For a slightly thicker soup, you can let it simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes before adding the tortellini, allowing the broth to reduce slightly.
• If you’re a fan of kale, swap out the spinach for kale. It provides a heartier texture and slightly different flavor profile.
• This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings, and the leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving Suggestions:

• This soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
• For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad with balsamic vinaigrette.
• A side of roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts can complement the flavors of this hearty soup.

Tips:

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for a few days.
• Storage tip: If you plan on storing the soup, keep the tortellini separate. When stored together, tortellini can absorb too much liquid and become mushy. Store the soup base and tortellini in separate containers and combine when reheating.
• Gluten-free option: Swap out the regular cheese tortellini for a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based sausage and vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version of this dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 1200mg (Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients used.)

FAQs:

1. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini, as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Freeze the soup base, and when you’re ready to serve, cook fresh tortellini to add to the reheated soup.

2. Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

Absolutely. Chicken or turkey sausage works well in this recipe if you’re looking for a lighter option. You can also use a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.

3. How long can I store leftovers?

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re storing the tortellini separately, you may keep them for the same duration. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat.

4. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well. Simply adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, which might be slightly longer than fresh tortellini.

Conclusion:

This Hearty Italian Sausage and Spinach Tortellini Soup is a flavorful, filling meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With its creamy broth, bursts of freshness from the spinach, and tender cheese tortellini, it’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household. Serve it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad, and you have a complete, satisfying meal in no time!

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