If you are craving a warm hug in a bowl that bursts with flavor and satisfying textures, this Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s a deliciously rich, velvety tomato soup swirled with cream and studded with tender cheese tortellini and hearty Italian sausage. Every spoonful brings comforting warmth and a delightful blend of savory sausage, sweet tomatoes, and soft pasta. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you want an easy yet impressive dish, this soup combines simple ingredients into a truly memorable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Using a handful of straightforward ingredients, this soup comes together with ease while delivering layers of flavor and inviting texture. Each element plays a vital role—from the seasoning that wakes up the broth, to the creamy finish that makes it irresistible.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Adds a rich and savory protein base with just the right amount of seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed): Helps soften the aromatics and brown the sausage evenly.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with fragrant warmth and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Blends classic herbs like oregano and basil for authentic Italian flair.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Kicks up the heat slightly but can be left out for a milder taste.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the soup, providing a luscious and tangy tomato base.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Builds the body of the soup and blends all flavors together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and a silky texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 10–12 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: Tender little pillows of cheesy deliciousness that soak up the flavorful broth.
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional): A touch of green to brighten the dish and add nutrients.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
- Black pepper, to taste: Provides a gentle peppery finish.
- Optional garnish: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley, crusty bread: Elevate the presentation and add extra flavor and texture.
How to Make Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat and adding the Italian sausage. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned all over. This step is crucial—it builds the savory foundation for the soup and adds that irresistible meaty flavor. Drain any excess grease if the pan looks too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and if you’re using them, red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 30 seconds until your kitchen fills with the warm, herbaceous aroma. This layering of flavors will make every bite memorable.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring them into the sausage and onion mixture. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes. This slow simmering step helps deepen the soup’s richness and rounds out acidity from the tomatoes.
Step 4: Stir in the Cream and Simmer
Now it’s time to swirl in the heavy cream, which transforms this soup into a silky, creamy delight. Return everything to a gentle simmer—this is key to prevent the cream from curdling and to give the soup that luscious texture you crave.
Step 5: Cook the Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini right into the pot, cooking according to the package instructions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes. The tortellini soaks up the soup’s flavors and provides that wonderful soft, cheesy bite that makes this recipe so special.
Step 6: Wilt the Spinach and Season
Finally, stir in fresh spinach if using, letting it wilt gently in the hot soup. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Now your creamy sausage and tortellini tomato soup is ready to serve hot and fresh!
How to Serve Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, torn fresh basil or chopped parsley, really elevate the presentation and add bursts of flavor. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few cracks of black pepper can make every spoonful even more delightful.
Side Dishes
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping, a crisp green salad for freshness, or even roasted vegetables if you want to add more substance. The bread soaks up the creamy tomato broth perfectly and makes the meal more indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this soup in individual bread bowls or deep ramekins topped with melted cheese. You can also add a swirl of pesto or a few red pepper flakes on top for a colorful, eye-catching presentation that will wow guests or family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover creamy sausage and tortellini tomato soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the tortellini may soften over time, but the flavors continue to meld beautifully.
Freezing
While you can freeze the soup, the texture of cheese tortellini may change slightly once thawed. To preserve the best texture, consider freezing the soup base separately and cooking fresh tortellini when reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much to restore its signature creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage works best for authentic flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage for different dietary preferences. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes, you can omit the sausage and use a vegetable broth base. Add sautéed mushrooms or other hearty veggies to keep it flavorful and satisfying without meat.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy non-dairy alternative. The soup will still be creamy and delicious.
How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle heat that complements the sausage and tomato. If you prefer mild soup, simply skip them, or add a pinch if you want a subtle kick.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach works well. Just thaw and drain it before stirring into the soup at the end of cooking to avoid excess liquid.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. It’s wonderfully easy to make, coming together quickly while delivering incredible depth of flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this soup promises satisfying hearty bites with every spoonful. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and enjoy the cozy deliciousness!
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Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Tomato Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings
Description
Creamy sausage and tortellini tomato soup is a rich, comforting one-pot meal loaded with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a velvety tomato cream broth. This cozy and hearty soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or chilly days, offering a delicious blend of Italian flavors in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Soup Base
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Pasta and Vegetables
- 10–12 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Seasonings and Garnishes
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley, crusty bread
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if needed to avoid excess oiliness in the soup.
- Sauté Onion: Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, infusing the soup with aromatic spices.
- Combine Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer to Develop Flavor: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. This step creates the creamy texture that makes the soup so comforting.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually about 3–5 minutes, until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
- Add Spinach: If using fresh spinach, stir it in now and cook until wilted to add a fresh green component to the dish.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and black pepper to your preference. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil or parsley, and crusty bread if desired.
Notes
- Use spicy Italian sausage for extra heat or mild sausage for a family-friendly version.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter soup option.
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables and more texture.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; note that tortellini may soften over time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
