Tortellini Soup Recipe
This Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Packed with flavor from sautéed onions, garlic, and Italian sausage, it combines tender tortellini and vibrant spinach in a creamy broth.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy dish to share with friends, this recipe is sure to please. Plus, it’s easily customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the creaminess to suit your taste!
Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
1 or 2 packs of tortellini
1 cup of diced onions
1 shallot
4 cloves of garlic
Italian sausage
Tomato paste
Heavy cream
1 quart vegetable broth (plus some water if needed)
Spinach
Fresh Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté the diced onions, shallot, and minced garlic in a large pot over medium heat until they are soft and fragrant.
In a separate pan, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked.
Once the onion mixture is caramelized, add the vegetable broth and tortellini to the pot, bringing it to a boil.
Stir in the cooked Italian sausage.
Pour in half a cup of heavy cream, or adjust to your desired creaminess.
Season with salt and pepper, then add the spinach and let it wilt.
If desired, sprinkle with fresh Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your tortellini soup!
Notes:
Tortellini Choices: You can use fresh or frozen tortellini. Fresh will cook faster, while frozen may require a few extra minutes.
Sausage Variations: Feel free to use different types of Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy) based on your flavor preference. You can also substitute turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Vegetable Additions: Enhance the soup with additional vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just chop them finely and sauté them with the onions.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter soup, consider using half-and-half or even a plant-based cream substitute. You can also omit the cream entirely for a broth-based soup.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This soup also pairs well with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the tortellini just before serving, as it may become mushy upon reheating.
Garnishing: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish. A drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can add brightness to the flavors.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 380 | Total Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 800mg | Total Carbohydrates: 35g | Dietary Fiber: 2g | Sugars: 3g | Protein: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh tortellini.
Just reduce the cooking time, as fresh tortellini typically cooks faster than frozen.
What type of Italian sausage should I use?
You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your taste preference.
You can also substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Just reheat gently when ready to serve.
Note that tortellini may absorb some broth as it sits, so you may need to add a bit more broth when reheating.
What vegetables can I add to the soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Just sauté them with the onions, shallots, and garlic to soften them before adding the broth and tortellini.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely.
Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you can add more vegetables or beans for extra protein.
Can I use different types of broth?
Yes, you can use chicken, vegetable, or even beef broth depending on your flavor preference.
Each will add a different depth to the soup.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
You can also freeze the soup for up to three months, but the texture of the tortellini may change after freezing.
Is there a way to make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the soup while cooking.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Definitely! Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the flavor.
You can also experiment with Italian seasoning or a bay leaf for additional aroma.
Just be mindful of the quantities to avoid overpowering the dish.