Hey y’all! If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and incredibly tasty, this Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach is about to become your go-to recipe. It’s packed with tender cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and bright green spinach all swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal, something to impress guests, or the ultimate cozy dinner on a chilly night, this soup ticks every box. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Loaded with hearty, wholesome ingredients and bold Italian flavors.
- One-pot wonder means less cleanup and more flavor.
- Customizable for different diets or preferences.
- Kid-friendly and makes excellent leftovers.
Ingredients for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
- 1/3 cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How to Make Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through—about 5-6 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate if there’s excess fat; otherwise, keep it in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 5 minutes—until they float to the surface and are tender.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish
Stir in the fresh spinach and heavy cream (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan, and serve hot!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Notes for the Best Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- For extra depth, try browning the sausage until deep golden—this caramelization adds rich flavor (learn more about browning meat).
- Don’t overcook the tortellini or it will get mushy—add it right before serving.
- You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or skip it for a lighter soup.
Variations for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
- Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
- Creamy Tomato: Double the cream for a richer, velvety base.
Required Equipment for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Large Dutch oven or soup pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions: Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Let the soup cool completely. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months—just know that the tortellini may soften more upon reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Serving Recommendations & Pairings for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Serve with warm, crusty Italian bread or homemade garlic knots.
- Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
- Enjoy with a glass of Italian red wine or sparkling water.
Pro Tips for Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
- Use fresh cheese tortellini for best texture and flavor (learn more about choosing pasta).
- Wait to add the spinach until right before serving so it stays vibrantly green and tender.
- Add a Parmesan rind to the broth for an extra layer of umami (it’s a chef’s secret—see more tips here!).
FAQ: Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage & Spinach
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Add it straight to the simmering soup and increase the cook time by 2-3 minutes until tender.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and double-check your sausage and broth for hidden gluten sources.
Can I substitute kale for spinach?
Absolutely! Just give chopped kale a few extra minutes to soften in the hot broth before serving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 9 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
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2Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
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3Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil.
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4Add cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes, until tender.
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5Stir in fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
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6Ladle soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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