Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting bowl filled with spicy sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich broth that warms you up from the inside out. The tender pasta and savory sausage pieces make this soup feel like a complete meal, perfect for chilly days or whenever you need something both satisfying and simple.
I love making this soup when I want something that’s quick but still feels special. One of my favorite things about it is how the flavors come together – the sausage adds just the right amount of spice and depth, while the tortellini brings a delightful chewy bite that pairs perfectly with the broth. I usually add some fresh herbs on top, like parsley or basil, to give it a little extra punch.
When I serve this soup, I like to have a big slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. It turns the meal into a little feast and makes the whole experience feel cozy and homey. It’s one of those dishes that everyone seems to enjoy, no matter their taste, and it’s especially great for sharing around the table with friends or family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds rich, spicy flavor to your soup. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, try crumbled plant-based sausage or mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Cheese Tortellini: These bring tenderness and cheesy goodness. If you can’t find tortellini, use ravioli or small pasta shapes like shells or farfalle instead.
Chicken Broth: It’s the base of the soup’s flavor. Vegetable broth is a great alternative for vegetarians or to keep it lighter. Low-sodium broth helps you control salt levels.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. You can substitute baby kale or Swiss chard if you prefer a heartier green. Just add them a bit earlier so they soften well.
Dried Italian Seasoning & Red Pepper Flakes: These season the broth with warm herb flavors and a little heat. Feel free to adjust the spicy kick by adding less or more crushed red pepper.
How Do You Cook the Sausage and Keep It Tender in the Soup?
Cooking sausage right is key for great flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat and break the sausage into small pieces while cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents clumps.
- Don’t rush—cook the sausage 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. Stir often to brown it nicely without burning.
- Remove cooked sausage before adding onions and garlic to the pot. This stops the meat from overcooking and becoming tough while you build flavor in the soup.
- Add the sausage back in near the end, so it stays juicy and blends perfectly with the broth and veggies.
Following these steps keeps your sausage tender and full of flavor, making your soup extra satisfying every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking the sausage and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps you break up the sausage and stir the soup without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – for chopping onions, garlic, and spinach quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface to prep all your veggies and herbs.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup into bowls neat and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Try using spicy sausage for a bolder heat or sweet Italian sausage if you want it milder.
- Add chopped mushrooms when cooking onions for extra texture and earthiness.
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier, slightly bitter green.
- Mix in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, so around 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and comforting meal you can have on the table fast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pot.
2. Cook Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Bring the soup to a boil.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the boiling soup. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until tender.
5. Add Sausage and Spinach:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach and simmer for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
6. Season and Serve:
Check the soup and add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm, with crusty bread if you like.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just add frozen tortellini directly to the boiling soup and cook a minute or two longer than the package suggests to ensure they’re heated through.
Can I Make Sausage Tortellini Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove; if the tortellini absorbs too much broth, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without tortellini) and add fresh tortellini when reheating for best texture.
Can I Substitute the Sausage with Another Protein?
Definitely! Ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage alternatives work well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and season to your taste.
