Cozy up with a bowl of my Sausage Tortellini Soup. It’s packed with flavor and warmth, making it perfect for any chilly day. In this post, I’ll share my complete ingredients list, easy cooking steps, and helpful tips to make your soup shine. Plus, you’ll find tasty variations to suit your needs. Get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying! Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This soup combines savory Italian sausage with fresh vegetables and herbs, creating a warm and satisfying dish perfect for cozy nights.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like spinach, carrots, and celery, this soup is a great way to sneak in some healthy greens while enjoying a comforting meal.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.
Ingredients
Complete list of ingredients for Sausage Tortellini Soup
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Ingredient substitutions and alternatives
You can swap Italian sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use mushrooms or lentils instead of sausage. For broth, vegetable broth works well if you want to keep it plant-based. You can also use low-sodium options to control salt levels. In place of cheese tortellini, try other pasta shapes like shells or bowties. Spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard for different textures and flavors.
Nutritional information per serving
Each serving of Sausage Tortellini Soup provides about 350 calories. It has 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of fat, and 40 grams of carbs. This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, thanks to the vegetables. The added cheese provides calcium, which is great for bone health. Remember, portion sizes may change the nutritional values slightly. Enjoy this hearty bowl as part of a balanced meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Detailed cooking process for Sausage Tortellini Soup
1. Heat the oil: In a large pot, pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat.
2. Brown the sausage: Add 1 pound of Italian sausage. Break it into smaller pieces with a spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until it is brown and no longer pink.
3. Add veggies: Next, add 1 diced onion, 3 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Stir and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Add garlic and herbs: Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Add broth and tomatoes: Carefully pour in 4 cups of broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper, then bring to a boil.
6. Add tortellini: Once boiling, add 12 ounces of cheese tortellini. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the tortellini floats.
7. Add greens: In the last 2 minutes, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook until it wilts.
8. Taste and adjust: Taste the soup. Add more salt and pepper if needed. Let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking times for each step
- Heating oil: 1 minute
- Browning sausage: 5-7 minutes
- Cooking veggies: 5-7 minutes
- Adding garlic and herbs: 1 minute
- Boiling broth and tomatoes: 5 minutes
- Cooking tortellini: 3-5 minutes
- Wilting greens: 2 minutes
Tips for perfecting each stage of cooking
- Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage for even cooking.
- Stir the veggies often to avoid burning.
- Add garlic last to keep its strong flavor.
- Make sure to season your broth. It enhances the soup’s taste.
- Taste regularly to find the right saltiness.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice at the end.
Tips & Tricks
Best practices for seasoning the soup
Start with fresh herbs. Fresh basil and oregano enhance the soup's taste. If you only have dried herbs, use less than fresh. Dried herbs are stronger. Taste while cooking. Adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Use enough broth to add flavor.
How to enhance the flavor profile
Add a splash of lemon juice before serving. This brightens the soup's taste. You can also try a dash of hot sauce for heat. Try adding a bay leaf while it simmers. Remove it before serving for added depth. For a richer taste, use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth.
Common mistakes to avoid in preparation
Don’t rush the browning of the sausage. This step adds great flavor. Avoid overcooking the tortellini. They should float but stay firm. Don't skip the garlic. It needs time to release its flavor. Finally, always taste. Adjusting seasoning makes all the difference.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Add them just before serving for a vibrant taste.
- Customize Your Greens: If you prefer a different leafy green, feel free to substitute kale with Swiss chard or collard greens for a unique twist.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth for a complete meal experience.
Variations
Suggestions for different proteins
You can switch up the sausage for other proteins. Turkey sausage is a great choice. It has less fat but still brings flavor. If you prefer, try chicken sausage. It gives a lighter taste while still being hearty. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage. It adds texture and protein without meat.
Alternative vegetables to include or replace
Feel free to play with the veggies in this soup. You can add zucchini or bell peppers for a fresh crunch. If you want a twist, throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can even add frozen peas or corn for a pop of sweetness. Just make sure to adjust cooking times so they stay tender.
How to modify for dietary restrictions
This soup can fit many diets. To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free tortellini. Check the broth too; some contain gluten. For a dairy-free version, leave out the Parmesan cheese. Use a dairy-free alternative if you like. To cut down on carbs, you can skip the tortellini and add more vegetables. Enjoy your soup without worry!
Storage Info
How to store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup
To store your leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup, let it cool first. Then, pour it into airtight containers. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the lid is tight to keep the soup fresh. Label the containers with the date to track freshness.
Reheating instructions for best results
To reheat, pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat. Stir often to prevent sticking. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of broth or water. Heat until it's steaming, but don’t boil it. You can also use the microwave. Just heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering it with a lid. Heat in one-minute intervals until warm. Stir between intervals for even heating.
Freezing tips and how to maintain quality
If you want to freeze your soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above. Avoid freezing the tortellini for long periods. It can become mushy once thawed. Instead, consider adding fresh tortellini when you reheat the soup for the best texture.
FAQs
How long does Sausage Tortellini Soup last in the refrigerator?
Sausage Tortellini Soup can last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you might need to add a bit of broth or water when reheating.
Can you make Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time! In fact, it tastes even better the next day. Just cook it and let it cool before storing it in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, reheat it on the stove until hot.
What can I serve with Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Sausage Tortellini Soup pairs well with several side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
- A fresh green salad
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
- A side of roasted vegetables
These sides will make the meal even more enjoyable!
You've learned how to make Sausage Tortellini Soup from start to finish. We covered ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great flavor. I shared ingredient swaps for different diets and how to store leftovers. Remember, this soup can fit many tastes. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. With a bit of care, your dish will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
