If you’re craving a soup that’s bursting with comforting Italian flavors yet quick to whip up, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s a hearty, soul-warming bowl packed with tender tortellini, savory sausage, vibrant spinach, and a rich tomato broth that dances on your taste buds. Whether you want a satisfying weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, this soup is your new best friend in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet every single one plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the creamy butter that starts the base to the fresh basil that adds an aromatic finish, these essentials come together seamlessly.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and a silky start to the sautéed aromatics.
- 1 onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth once softened.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a fragrant punch to elevate the flavor profile.
- 1 box (32 ounces) low sodium chicken broth: Forms the savory foundation of the soup.
- 2 cans (14.5 ounces each) diced tomatoes: Introduce brightness and a beautiful red hue.
- 1 20 ounce package BUITONI Sweet Italian Sausage Tortelloni: The star ingredient providing pasta and flavor in one.
- 13 ounces cooked turkey sausage (sliced): Adds protein with a smoky, meaty bite; browning it first is optional for extra flavor.
- 12 ounces baby spinach (roughly chopped): Brightens the soup with color and a tender bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (minced): Fresh herbaceous notes that tie everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the soup’s flavors.
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan: The perfect finishing touch for a cheesy, savory boost.
How to Make Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Begin by melting butter over medium-high heat in a large dutch oven or stockpot. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and starts to turn translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté just 30 seconds more to release that irresistible fragrance without burning, creating a flavorful base for your broth.
Step 2: Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth into the pot with your softened onions and garlic. Give everything a good stir to unite those flavors. This broth will become the heart of your soup, carrying all the delicious elements together.
Step 3: Boil and Add Tortelloni
Turn up the heat just enough to bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer and carefully stir in the BUITONI Sweet Italian Sausage Tortelloni. This pasta stuffed with savory sausage adds such a luxurious texture and makes your soup incredibly satisfying.
Step 4: Season the Broth
Now’s the time to season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy here—proper seasoning really unlocks the full flavors in your Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe.
Step 5: Simmer the Tortelloni
Let the tortelloni cook in the broth according to the package instructions, typically about 7 minutes. This allows them to plump up and absorb all those wonderful savory juices, making every bite tender and delicious.
Step 6: Add Sausage, Spinach, Tomatoes, and Basil
Stir in the sliced cooked turkey sausage along with the roughly chopped baby spinach, canned diced tomatoes, and fresh basil. The sausage brings a smoky, meaty richness while the spinach adds fresh vibrant color and a touch of earthiness. The tomatoes brighten everything up, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Step 7: Simmer and Wilt the Spinach
Give the soup a final stir and allow it to simmer a little longer until the spinach has wilted to your liking. This step ties everything together and ensures each spoonful is full of comforting, fresh goodness.
Step 8: Garnish with Parmesan
Before serving, sprinkle shredded Parmesan over the top for that irresistible cheesy finish. The melted Parmesan adds a nutty, salty kick that makes this soup feel truly special.
Step 9: Enjoy!
Ladle your piping hot Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe into bowls, grab a spoon, and dive right into this homestyle, heartwarming meal. It’s a cozy hug you can eat!
How to Serve Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can change everything. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan makes all the difference, but consider adding a few torn fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra richness. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can add a lovely gentle heat for those who want a little kick.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of Italian bread or garlic breadsticks, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that vibrant broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the heartiness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls for an extra touch of rustic charm. You can also garnish individual bowls with a dollop of pesto or swirl in a spoonful of ricotta for extra creaminess that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup tastes fantastic the next day, making it ideal for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, and the tortellini will soak up more broth, becoming even tastier.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that tortellini may become a little softer after thawing. To freeze, cool the soup completely, place in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating
Reheat your Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe slowly on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency back to perfect.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While turkey sausage keeps it lighter, you can swap in pork Italian sausage or even spicy sausage to kick up the heat. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is this soup gluten-free?
The BUITONI Sweet Italian Sausage Tortelloni used here contains gluten. For a gluten-free alternative, look for gluten-free tortellini or substitute with gluten-free pasta of your choice.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can! Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for heartiness and plenty of flavor.
How spicy is this soup?
This Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is mild and perfect for most palates. If you love spice, adding red pepper flakes or choosing a spicy sausage can turn up the heat.
Can I prepare this soup ahead for meal prepping?
Yes! This soup is fantastic for meal prep. Make a big batch, store in portioned containers, and enjoy a quick, nourishing meal all week long.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Sweet Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe will become your go-to comfort food whenever you need a satisfying yet simple meal. It’s packed with flavor, colors, and nourishing ingredients that make every spoonful a delight to your palate. Don’t wait—get cooking and enjoy all the cozy goodness in a bowl!
