Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Warm up with this hearty Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup, a delightful fusion of zesty Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and rich broth bursting with flavor. Perfect for chilly nights, this comforting soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a go-to meal for the whole family. Elevate your soup game and enjoy a bowl of warmth and spice today!
This soup has been a family favorite for years, passed down through generations. Each bowl brings back memories of cozy evenings and laughter around the dinner table.
A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion
This Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is not just for cold winter evenings; it’s a versatile dish that can brighten up any meal. Whether you're entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home with family, this soup provides a deliciously satisfying experience. Its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a standout choice. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or unexpected gatherings.
Because it comes together in just one pot, this soup minimizes cleanup, meaning you can enjoy more time with your loved ones. You can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd or save some for leftovers to savor later. No matter when you decide to serve it, this spicy soup is sure to impress.
Nutritional Benefits
Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is more than just comfort food; it's also a nutritional powerhouse. The spicy Italian sausage provides a satisfying protein kick, while the addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach bolsters your daily intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Utilizing fresh ingredients amplifies its nutritional profile, supporting overall health and wellness.
Moreover, the cheese tortellini contributes carbohydrates that provide lasting energy, making it a balanced meal option. Enjoying a bowl of this soup means you’re not only indulging your taste buds but also nourishing your body with wholesome ingredients.
Customizable to Your Taste
One of the best things about this soup is its adaptability. If you’re not a fan of spicy sausage, you can easily swap it for mild sausage or even a plant-based alternative. Want to pack in more vegetables? Add zucchini, bell peppers, or kale for extra nutrients and flavors. You can also play with the texture by using different pasta shapes or even adding beans for added heartiness.
Don’t forget about seasoning! Play around with herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to elevate the flavor profile and make the soup uniquely yours. Personalizing this dish allows you to cater to various dietary preferences and makes it a favorite for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepared and ready before you start cooking!
Directions
Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Add Liquids
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Cook the Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions until tender.
Finish with Spinach
Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with crusty bread and enjoy!
Tips for Perfecting Your Soup
To ensure the best flavor, allow your soup to simmer adequately after adding the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. This process melds the flavors beautifully, creating a richer taste experience. For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before you add the broth, which complements the sausage and brings a delightful acidity to the dish.
Always taste your soup as you go along! Flavors can vary based on the ingredients and brands used, so adjusting the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference is essential for achieving the ideal savoriness.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing the soup is a breeze. Allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can remain fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well, making it a perfect option for meal prep. Just ensure to leave out the tortellini when freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated.
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for easy reheating. Adding a splash of broth or water during reheating can help restore its original consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or a crusty piece of bread for dipping. Consider garnishing the soup with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the spice level.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a charcuterie board filled with cured meats, gourmet cheeses, and a selection of olives. This complements the bold flavors of the soup and creates a wonderful dining experience that everyone will love.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container.
→ What can I substitute for tortellini?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup
Warm up with this hearty Spicy Sausage & Tortellini Soup, a delightful fusion of zesty Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and rich broth bursting with flavor. Perfect for chilly nights, this comforting soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a go-to meal for the whole family. Elevate your soup game and enjoy a bowl of warmth and spice today!
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 6.0
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions until tender.
Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for a couple of minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g