This Tortellini Soup is warm, tasty, and perfect for any day! It combines little pasta pockets filled with cheese, mixed with veggies and a flavorful broth to make it comforting.
Seriously, every spoonful is like a hug in a bowl! I enjoy making this on chilly evenings when I’m looking for something quick yet cozy. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Italian Sausage: This adds flavor and richness to the soup. You can swap it out for turkey sausage for a lighter version or use a meat alternative if you’re going vegetarian. It’s all tasty!
Chicken Broth: I suggest low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness. If you’re vegetarian, opt for vegetable broth. Homemade broth is also fantastic if you have it!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It still gives creaminess, just with a different flavor.
Fresh Spinach: If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use kale or even frozen spinach, just adjust the cooking time. I love spinach for its mild taste and nutrients!
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Without Burning Them?
Getting onions and garlic just right is key to a delicious base. Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat; this ensures they cook evenly.
- Add the diced onions first and sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally until they are soft and slightly translucent.
- Then, add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds. Watch it closely – garlic can burn quickly, which will make it taste bitter!
- If you see them starting to brown too fast, lower the heat just a bit.
With this technique, you’ll build a flavorful foundation for your Tortellini Soup! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Delicious Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Tortellini Soup will take you about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, cooking it while breaking it apart with a spoon. Continue cooking until the sausage is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Now add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, mix in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and the undrained can of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning into the pot. Bring this mixture to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, letting those yummy flavors develop.
4. Stir in Cream and Tortellini:
After the 10 minutes, stir in the heavy cream. Then, add the cheese tortellini to your soup. Follow the cooking instructions on the tortellini package, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes until they are tender.
5. Add Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach leaves and stir until they wilt, which will just take about 1-2 minutes. Your soup is truly coming together now!
6. Season and Finish:
It’s time to season your soup! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Then, remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s well combined, making your soup even creamier.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls. For a touch of elegance, garnish your bowls with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley if you like. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—perfect for soaking up that delicious broth!
And there you have it! A comforting and hearty Tortellini Soup that’s sure to warm your soul!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground Italian sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to season it well to maintain the flavors!
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, it can be frozen! However, it’s best to freeze it without the heavy cream and tortellini. Cook and add them when you’re ready to eat. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, add cream and tortellini right before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free choice, coconut milk works well, adding a subtle flavor while maintaining creaminess!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if it has thickened. Enjoy again!
