How do you make creamy sausage tortellini soup with spinach?

To prepare this comforting soup, start by browning Italian sausage in a large pot. Add diced onions and garlic, cooking until translucent. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in cheese tortellini and cook until tender. Reduce heat, add heavy cream and fresh spinach, and simmer until the spinach wilts. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Can I substitute the sausage in the tortellini soup?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with other proteins such as ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives for a vegetarian version. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the soup's flavor profile.

What type of tortellini is best for this soup?

Cheese-filled tortellini is commonly used in this soup, complementing the savory sausage and creamy broth. However, you can experiment with other fillings like spinach and ricotta or mushroom to add different flavors.

How can I thicken my tortellini soup?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this mixture into the simmering soup and cook until it reaches your desired thickness. Alternatively, blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot can also add thickness and a creamy texture.

Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. To prevent the tortellini from becoming overly soft, consider cooking them separately and adding them to the soup when reheating. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I freeze creamy sausage tortellini soup with spinach?

Freezing this soup is possible, but it's best to do so without the tortellini and spinach, as they can become mushy upon thawing. Prepare the soup base with sausage and broth, then cool and freeze it. When ready to serve, reheat the base, cook fresh tortellini separately, and add fresh spinach just before serving.

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach: The 5 Secrets

Name: Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 small onion, finely diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 9 oz refrigerated tortellini (cheese or meat-filled); 1 cup heavy cream; 3 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan, for garnish

Description

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a quick, hearty dish packed with savory sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach in a velvety broth. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests!

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

1 small onion, finely diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups chicken broth

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 tsp Italian seasoning

½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

9 oz refrigerated tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups fresh spinach

Salt and pepper, to taste

Grated Parmesan, for garnish

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into crumbles, and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed.

Sauté Aromatics

Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Simmer the Base

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.

Add Tortellini and Cream

Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes, until tender. Reduce heat to low and mix in the heavy cream.

Incorporate Spinach

Add fresh spinach, stirring gently until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan, and serve with crusty bread or garlic knots.

Notes

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.

Add extra veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.

To store leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stove-top
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 950mg
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 75mg

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