Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

If you are craving a comforting bowl of warmth that packs a flavorful punch, this Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. With its rich, creamy broth, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and the bold taste of spicy Italian sausage, this soup brings together an irresistible combination of ingredients. Each spoonful gives you a wonderful balance of heat, creaminess, and fresh greens that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress guests, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the heart of Italian flavors right to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create big flavors. Each component plays a vital role, from the spicy sausage adding a kick to the creamy broth and fresh spinach brightening the bowl with color and nutrition.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for sautéing and adding a light, fruity base to the soup’s flavor.
• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage (casings removed): Brings the soup’s signature heat and robust meatiness.
• 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the broth with fragrant warmth and complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who want to turn up the spice just a touch more.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives that unmistakable Italian flair.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little peppery sharpness to enhance all the other flavors.
• 4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid base that carries all the ingredients perfectly.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a juicy burst to balance the richness.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Supplies that luscious, velvety texture that makes the soup so comforting.
• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star pasta of the dish, stuffed with creamy cheese for satisfying bites.
• 2 cups fresh spinach (chopped): Fresh greens that wilt into the soup, adding freshness and color.
• Salt to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors into harmonious balance.
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: A savory topping that enhances every spoonful.

How to Make Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks. Let it brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds a deep meaty flavor base for your soup.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Add Aromatics

Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté everything together until the onion softens and becomes translucent, roughly 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes if using, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook this fragrant mixture for about a minute to wake up the spices and garlic.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth followed by the diced tomatoes, including their juices. Give everything a good stir and bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes. This simmer allows the flavors to meld and develop beautifully.

Step 4: Cream and Tortellini Go In

Next, stir in the heavy cream and the cheese tortellini. Keep the soup at a gentle simmer for another 5 to 7 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through. The cream enriches the broth while the tortellini adds delightful chewy pockets of cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Season

Finally, add the chopped fresh spinach to the pot and cook just long enough for it to wilt, about 1 to 2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed. Now it’s ready to be ladled into bowls and sprinkled generously with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory finish.

How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only delivers a salty kick but also melts slightly into the hot soup, creating little pockets of cheesy bliss. A few torn basil leaves or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery baguette to soak up every luscious drop. For a lighter side, a crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the robust flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an interactive dining experience. You can also top the bowls with a few crispy sausage crumbles or a dollop of ricotta for added texture and creaminess. Garnishing with a dusting of red pepper flakes gives a festive burst of color and heat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your hearty bowl of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day leftovers just as satisfying.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, which is perfect for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Keep in mind that the spinach might darken slightly but the taste remains delicious.

Reheating

Reheat your frozen or refrigerated soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it. Avoid microwave reheating without stirring to prevent hot spots.

FAQs

Can I use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy?

Absolutely! Using sweet Italian sausage will create a milder version of this soup if you prefer less heat. You can always add red pepper flakes to taste for a gentle kick.

Is it okay to use dried tortellini?

You can use dried tortellini; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, usually about 2 to 3 minutes longer than refrigerated tortellini.

Can I substitute kale for spinach?

Yes, chopped kale works well in this soup. It will add a slightly earthier note and more chewiness, so cook it a bit longer to soften it thoroughly.

How spicy is this soup? Can I adjust the heat?

The sausage provides a good amount of spice, which you can tone down by choosing mild sausage or omitting the red pepper flakes. Alternatively, add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.

What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter soup, but it will be less creamy. Adding a tablespoon of flour mixed with a bit of broth can help thicken the soup slightly if needed.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe that combines heartiness, spice, and creamy comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or just indulging yourself, this recipe is a winner every time. I genuinely encourage you to try making it soon and discover how quickly it becomes one of your favorite go-to soups. Trust me, it’s like a little bowl of Italian sunshine that brightens any day!

Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

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4.1 from 27 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: High-Protein

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Description

A rich and flavorful Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup combining savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a creamy broth with a hint of heat. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with classic Italian-American flavors.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

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Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add diced yellow onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), dried Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Combine Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer the Soup Base: Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Add Cream and Tortellini: Stir in the heavy cream and add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Continue simmering for 5–7 minutes until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
7. Finish with Spinach and Season: Add the chopped spinach and cook for another 1–2 minutes until wilted. Taste the soup and adjust salt as needed.
8. Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

• For a milder flavor, substitute spicy Italian sausage with sweet Italian sausage.
• Kale can be used instead of spinach for a heartier green option.
• Be careful not to overcook the tortellini to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American