Sausage Tortellini Soup is a cozy and hearty bowl filled with tender cheese-filled tortellini, flavorful Italian sausage, and a blend of fresh vegetables all simmered in a rich broth. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, with just the right mix of spicy and comforting flavors.
I love making this soup when I want something quick but satisfying. The sausage gives it a nice kick without overpowering the other ingredients, and the tortellini adds a fun, chewy texture that makes every spoonful special. One tip I always follow is to brown the sausage well before adding anything else—that way, you get extra flavor that really makes the soup shine.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a big slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the broth. It’s perfect for a simple weeknight meal or when friends come over and everyone wants something warm and filling. Whenever I make this, I’m reminded of those cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and delicious food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds wonderful spice and richness. If you want less heat, try mild sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Removing the casings helps break it up nicely in the soup.
Tortellini: Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini works best for a soft, tender bite. If you can’t find tortellini, ravioli or small pasta shapes like tortellini shells are good alternatives.
Broth & Vegetables: Chicken broth creates a tasty base, but vegetable broth is a good swap for vegetarians (skip the sausage, though). Onion, celery, and carrots form a great flavor trio known as mirepoix. I like to dice them small so they cook evenly and blend well.
Greens & Herbs: Spinach adds freshness at the end, wilting quickly in the hot soup. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard if preferred. Fresh parsley brightens up the flavors; dried parsley can be used if fresh isn’t available.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Sausage and Vegetables?
Browning the sausage well is key—it develops deep flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step; cook it over medium heat until nicely golden, breaking it apart to get little crispy bits. Then remove it from the pot.
Next, use the same pot to sauté your vegetables. The onions, celery, and carrots need to soften gently to release their sweetness. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes, then add the garlic last to avoid burning it.
After adding broth and spices, letting the soup simmer for 10 minutes allows all the flavors to combine. Finally, add the tortellini and cook until tender, then toss in your greens last to keep their bright color and fresh taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning sausage and simmering the soup all in one spot.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – you’ll need these to dice veggies quickly and safely.
- Ladle – helps serve the soup easily and without spills.
- Measuring spoons – for adding the right amount of herbs and spices.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner protein; it still keeps the soup hearty.
- Try adding kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a stronger, earthier green.
- Mix in a handful of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra spice.
- Stir in some shredded Parmesan or mozzarella at the end for a creamy, cheesy twist.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 9 oz fresh or frozen cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so in around 35 minutes you’ll have a delicious, warm bowl of sausage tortellini soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, scoop the sausage out with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until you smell that lovely garlic aroma.
3. Add Liquids and Seasoning:
Pour the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth into the pot. Stir in dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Mix everything together well.
4. Simmer and Combine:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot with the broth and veggies. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This lets all the flavors blend beautifully.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the fresh or frozen tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 3 to 5 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
6. Add Greens and Herbs:
Stir in the chopped spinach and parsley. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through.
7. Finish and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. Serve it hot in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkling of parsley. A slice of crusty bread is great for dipping!
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of homemade Sausage Tortellini Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage, but be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even browning and proper cooking throughout.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding tortellini and spinach, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the tortellini and greens to cook just before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. For best texture, add fresh tortellini and spinach when reheating if you didn’t include them before storing.
Can I Substitute the Tortellini?
Yes! If tortellini isn’t available, you can use ravioli, small shells, or other filled pasta. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta type to avoid overcooking.
