This sausage tortellini soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner. Rich in savory sausage and soft tortellini, this dish provides warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for busy nights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process that will make this dish a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 package tortellini (9 oz)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for sautéing
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 320 calories, 15g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 15g fat, and 4g fiber. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the sausage, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Once the sausage is cooked through, pour in the chicken broth.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Stir in the tortellini and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. It also complements a glass of white wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave out the spinach until reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using low-quality sausage can affect the flavor.
- Overcooking the tortellini can make it mushy.
- Not seasoning properly can lead to bland soup.
- Adding too much liquid can dilute the flavors.
- Forgetting to sauté the garlic and onions can impact the base flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use homemade broth for a richer taste.
- Consider adding chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less broth.
- Garnish with grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. However, it’s best to add the tortellini and spinach just before serving to maintain their texture.
What type of tortellini should I use?
You can use cheese or meat-filled tortellini, depending on your preference. Both options work well in this soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How do I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can blend a portion of it and then stir it back in or add a cornstarch slurry.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
This sausage tortellini soup recipe is a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish that warms both the heart and the soul.
Sausage Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 package tortellini 9 oz
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the sausage, breaking it apart as it browns.
- Once the sausage is cooked through, pour in the chicken broth.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Stir in the tortellini and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot, garnished with parsley.
