Hearty Tortellini Soup with Sausage 🍲🌿

This comforting Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a delightful one-pot meal that warms you from the inside out! It's packed with savory Italian flavors, fresh vegetables, and tender tortellini. You'll love how easy it comes together, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty weekend lunch. Consider serving it with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal! 🥖❤️

Ingredients

For the soup base

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the tortellini

• 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Brown the sausage: In a large soup pot, heat over medium heat. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

🍖 If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute turkey sausage or omit the meat entirely for a vegetarian version!

2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

3. Add the liquid: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

4. Season: Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Cook the tortellini: Gently stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini, a little longer for frozen).

6. Add the greens: Once the tortellini is cooked, fold in the spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.

7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with fresh herbs.

🌱 For added flavor, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the soup before serving. It enhances the richness and adds depth to the dish!

Variations

• Meatless: Omit the sausage and add in your favorite legumes, like chickpeas or lentils, for protein.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
• Herbaceous twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fresh herbal note.
• Creamy addition: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese just before serving for a creamier soup base.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of Tortellini Soup with Sausage — a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your heart! 🍜❤️