Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Looking for a comforting dish that warms your soul? Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup brings together spicy Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and flavorful vegetables, creating a hearty meal perfect for any night. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a wonderful choice for families and gatherings.
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This creamy sausage tortellini soup stands out for several reasons. First, the balance of flavors creates a rich, satisfying experience. The spicy Italian sausage adds a kick, while the heavy cream and spinach lend a delightful creaminess. The sweet potatoes provide a subtle sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Additionally, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice levels, use different types of cheese tortellini, or even add your favorite vegetables. Plus, it’s all made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This creamy soup is perfect for chilly days, busy weeknights, or any occasion where comfort food is needed.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
- 12 ounces spicy Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus more to taste
- 1 large sweet potato (about 12 ounces), peeled and cubed
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- 4 ounces fresh spinach
- 6 cups water
- 8 ounces refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large high-sided pot over medium heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika. Stir well to evenly coat.
- Incorporate cubed sweet potatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the water. Increase heat and bring the mixture to a boil while stirring to dissolve the tomato paste.
- Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Add the tortellini to the pot. Cover and continue cooking at a gentle boil for 10 minutes or according to package instructions until pasta is tender.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, approximately 1 minute.
- Remove from heat. Gently stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Adjust seasoning with salt and additional red pepper flakes as desired. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh thyme for an appealing presentation. For an added touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad, creating a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to freeze it, place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
Tips to Make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Perfect
- Choose Quality Sausage: Using a good quality spicy Italian sausage makes a big difference in flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes and opt for mild sausage.
- Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as it can become mushy. Follow package instructions for the best results.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
Flavor Variations
This creamy soup is versatile. Here are some delicious variations you can try:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the sausage with hearty mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
- Add Beans: Adding white beans or chickpeas for protein and texture can be a great enhancement.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other types of tortellini, such as spinach or ricotta, to mix up the flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop and measure your ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.
- Bring to a Gentle Simmer: Maintaining a gentle simmer helps cook the sweet potatoes evenly without breaking apart.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning to fit your tastes as you cook, keeping in mind that flavors tend to develop as the soup sits.
FAQs About Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them directly to the soup, but you may need to extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes until they are cooked through.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just remember that tortellini will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add extra water or broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a fantastic choice for any meal. Its blend of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and tender pasta makes it irresistibly delicious. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this soup is bound to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and warm up with this delightful dish!
Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large high-sided pot over medium heat.
- Add crumbled sausage and cook, stirring frequently, until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Sprinkle cooked sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika. Stir well to evenly coat.
- Incorporate cubed sweet potatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Pour in the water. Increase heat and bring to a boil while stirring to dissolve the tomato paste.
- Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, or until sweet potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Add the tortellini to the pot. Cover and continue cooking at a gentle boil for 10 minutes or according to package instructions until pasta is tender.
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until just wilted, approximately 1 minute.
- Remove from heat. Gently stir in heavy cream until fully combined.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and additional red pepper flakes as desired.
- Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.