Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies the palate. This cozy soup combines hearty ingredients like Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy families or anyone looking for a comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty meal ready in under an hour.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of savory Italian sausage and fresh basil creates a rich flavor profile that is both hearty and comforting.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences, making it suitable for various diets.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, allowing you to enjoy it later without losing its delicious flavor.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty dish, making it perfect for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and ensure you create the best Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is crucial for cooking the soup evenly and holding all the ingredients comfortably.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
- Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently and safely.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground Italian Sausage
- 1/2 cup diced onion (about 1/2 medium sized onion)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 32 ounces vegetable broth (chicken works too)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil
- salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Tortellini and Spinach
- 9 ounces refrigerated tortellini
- 2 cups packed fresh spinach
For Serving
- 6 Baguette slices (about 1/3 of a baguette)
- 1 tablespoon Butter
- 2 tablespoons Freshly shredded Parmesan Cheese
How to Make Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the ground Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Once your aromatics are ready:
Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes along with their juices.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Season Your Soup
Next:
Stir in fresh chopped basil.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring your soup to a boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Tortellini and Spinach
As soon as your soup reaches a boil:
Add the refrigerated tortellini to the pot. Cook according to package instructions until tender.
In the last few minutes of cooking, gently fold in fresh spinach until wilted.
Step 5: Serve with Bread
To finish:
While your soup is simmering, toast baguette slices with butter until golden brown.
Ladle the soup into bowls, top each serving with freshly shredded Parmesan cheese, and serve alongside warm baguette slices.
Enjoy your homemade Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach—a perfect dish for any occasion!
How to Serve Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Serving Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach can elevate your dining experience. This cozy soup is versatile, making it perfect for various occasions.
Enjoy it with Baguette
- Slice and toast baguette slices to serve alongside the soup. The crusty bread is great for dipping.
Top with Parmesan
- Sprinkle freshly shredded Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and creaminess.
Add a Splash of Lemon
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the flavors in the soup, enhancing its freshness.
Pair with a Salad
- A light green salad complements the hearty soup, providing a refreshing contrast.
Serve in Bowls
- Use rustic bowls for an inviting presentation. It adds to the coziness of your meal.
Include Croutons
- Homemade or store-bought croutons add crunch and texture to each bowl of soup.
How to Perfect Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Perfecting your Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is all about technique and attention to detail.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sausage will enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
- Cook the Sausage Well: Ensure that the Italian sausage is browned properly for depth in taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; don’t hesitate to add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- Simmer Gently: Allow enough time for the ingredients to meld together—this builds layers of flavor in the broth.
- Add Tortellini Last: To prevent overcooking, add tortellini just before serving so they remain al dente.
- Serve Hot: For the best experience, serve this comforting soup piping hot.
Best Side Dishes for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Complementing your Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy garlic bread pairs beautifully with the soup’s rich tomato base.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy lettuce provide a nice contrast to the warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and color to your plate.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complement the Italian flavors of the soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites add an extra layer of flavor and are fun finger foods.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks topped with cheese make an enjoyable addition that’s easy to share.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking the Tortellini: This can make your pasta mushy. Cook the tortellini just until they float, then remove them from the heat promptly.
- Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds depth and flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient; add it right before serving for the best results.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving, ensuring a delicious meal.
- Using Low-Quality Sausage: The sausage is key to flavor. Choose a high-quality Italian sausage for a richer, more satisfying taste.
- Forgetting to Sauté Vegetables: Sautéing onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Always take the time to sauté these before adding liquids.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil; heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach.
Can I use any type of tortellini?
You can use cheese or meat-filled tortellini based on your preference. Both work well in this recipe.
How spicy is the Italian sausage?
The spiciness depends on the brand and type of sausage. If you’re unsure, go for mild sausage or adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like carrots or zucchini for more nutrition and variety.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of meat and chicken broth for a tasty vegetarian version.
Final Thoughts
Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices. This cozy soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to any table. This soup features cheesy tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach simmered in a rich tomato broth. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this delightful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Each bowl serves as a cozy hug on chilly days, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a nutritious and flavorful meal without the fuss.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 32 ounces vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil
- 9 ounces refrigerated tortellini
- 2 cups packed fresh spinach
Instructions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth; mix well.
- Add fresh basil, salt, and pepper, bringing the mixture to a boil.
- Incorporate tortellini according to package instructions, then gently fold in spinach until wilted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
