Tortellini Sausage Soup: A Comforting Classic

Tortellini Sausage Soup – just the name conjures up images of warmth, comfort, and a hearty, satisfying meal. I’ve always loved this dish, and I’m excited to share my family’s treasured recipe with you today. It’s more than just a soup; it’s a culinary hug on a chilly evening, a perfect remedy for a busy week, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

While the exact origins of tortellini are debated, with claims from various Italian regions, the small, ring-shaped pasta has a rich history, often associated with celebrations and festive gatherings. The combination with savory Italian sausage elevates this classic to a whole new level. This particular Tortellini Sausage Soup recipe is inspired by my grandmother’s, passed down through generations, and tweaked just a bit to make it even more delicious.

What makes this soup so beloved? It’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors. The tender tortellini, bursting with cheese, mingles beautifully with the juicy sausage, creating a symphony of tastes. The rich broth, simmered with aromatic vegetables, adds depth and warmth, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a vibrant, herbaceous finish. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for a family dinner or a casual weeknight meal. The convenience is another major plus; it’s relatively quick to prepare and can easily be made in large batches for leftovers.

So, gather your ingredients and prepare to be transported to a cozy Italian kitchen with this irresistible Tortellini Sausage Soup recipe. Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pound cheese tortellini
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables

1. I always start by browning the sausage. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess grease.
2. Once the sausage is cooked, I add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. I cook these vegetables until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for the soup.
3. Next, I add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it’ll become bitter if you do.

Building the Soup Base

1. Now it’s time to add the liquids and seasonings. I pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes (undrained). I also add the oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). I season generously with salt and pepper.
2. I bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for at least 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be. I often let it simmer for 30-45 minutes for a deeper, more intense taste.

Adding the Tortellini and Finishing Touches

1. After the soup has simmered, I gently stir in the cheese tortellini. I follow the package directions for cooking time, but usually, it takes about 5-7 minutes for the tortellini to cook through in the simmering soup. Don’t overcook the tortellini; you want them to be tender but still have a little bit of a bite.
2. Once the tortellini is cooked, I remove the soup from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy richness to the soup and complements the savory flavors perfectly.
3. Finally, I taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sometimes I need a little more salt or pepper, depending on my preference. I also like to garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and extra freshness.

Serving Suggestions

1. I love serving this Tortellini Sausage Soup hot, straight from the pot. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.
2. For an extra touch of warmth, I sometimes serve it with a crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth beautifully.
3. If you want to make it a complete meal, you can add a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
4. This soup is also great for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day! I often make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
5. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage would add a nice kick, or you could use chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can also add other vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to customize the soup to your liking.
6. For a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end. Just be careful not to boil it after adding the cream, as it can curdle.
7. If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead. Just use about 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil for every 1 tablespoon of fresh basil.
8. This recipe is easily scalable. You can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just make sure to use a pot that’s large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my recipe for the ultimate comfort food: Tortellini Sausage Soup! I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly flavorful. The rich, savory sausage perfectly complements the delicate cheese filling of the tortellini, creating a symphony of taste in every spoonful. The broth itself is deeply satisfying, simmered with a blend of aromatic vegetables and herbs that elevate the entire dish to a whole new level. Second, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and manageable, with minimal prep time and a simple cooking process. Third, and perhaps most importantly, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and what you have on hand.

Speaking of variations, let me give you a few ideas to inspire your culinary creativity! For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian option, simply substitute the Italian sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You could also experiment with different types of tortellini – try adding spinach and ricotta tortellini for a delightful twist, or even lobster tortellini for a luxurious upgrade. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your vegetables too! Adding carrots, celery, or even some chopped kale can add extra nutrients and depth of flavor to your Tortellini Sausage Soup.

For serving suggestions, I love to garnish my bowl of Tortellini Sausage Soup with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. A crusty bread roll on the side is also a perfect accompaniment, ideal for soaking up the delicious broth. For a heartier meal, serve it with a side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. This soup is equally delicious served hot or slightly cooled, making it a perfect meal for any time of day or year. It’s a fantastic option for a cozy weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a comforting meal on a chilly evening.

I genuinely hope you’ll give this Tortellini Sausage Soup recipe a try. It’s a dish that I’ve perfected over time, and I’m so excited to share it with you. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to create a warm and inviting meal for yourself, your family, or your friends. The aroma alone is enough to transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and deliciousness. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using the hashtag #TortelliniSausageSoup – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations and hear about your own delicious variations. Let’s connect and share the joy of this wonderfully comforting and flavorful soup!

Remember, cooking should be fun and experimental! Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your liking. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to create a personalized bowl of deliciousness that perfectly suits your taste buds. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food. Happy cooking!

Don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with me!