Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a rich, comforting dish packed with savory Italian sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and fresh vegetables all simmered in a flavorful creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a cozy, satisfying meal, this soup comes together quickly and is ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
yellow onion
garlic cloves
carrots
celery
spinach or kale
chicken broth
heavy cream
crushed tomatoes
olive oil
salt
black pepper
Italian seasoning
red pepper flakes (optional)
parmesan cheese (for garnish)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.

Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 4-7 minutes, until tender.

Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

Add spinach or kale and let it wilt into the soup.

Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated parmesan cheese before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Use tri-color tortellini for a colorful presentation.
Add a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables for depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore consistency.
Tortellini may absorb liquid over time, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
Not recommended for freezing, as the cream and tortellini may separate or become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is this soup spicy?

Only if you use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preference.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth, and ensure your tortellini is cheese-only.

How do I thicken the soup?

Simmer uncovered a bit longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad pair well.

Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the sausage first, then add all ingredients except cream, tortellini, and greens. Cook on low 6-7 hours, add tortellini and cream in the last 30 minutes.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the soup without the tortellini and cream, then add those fresh when reheating.

What kind of tortellini works best?

Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use sausage or spinach-filled ones too.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be less rich. Whole milk is preferred for better consistency.

What greens work best?

Spinach wilts quickly and blends in well, while kale adds more texture and nutrients.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect blend of hearty ingredients and luscious flavor in one comforting bowl. With just the right balance of richness and savoriness, it’s an easy go-to meal for cozy nights or family dinners. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this soup has become a favorite in so many kitchens.