Description
This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed dish featuring spicy Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato broth. It’s easy to make, perfect for cold nights, and comes together in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Soup:
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed (or mild sausage + red pepper flakes)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra flavor)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups baby spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Extra red pepper flakes (if you love the heat!)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned (about 5 minutes).
- Remove excess grease if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor
- Add onion and sauté until softened (3 minutes).
- Stir in garlic, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
- Add cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package directions (usually 5 minutes for fresh, 8 minutes for frozen).
Step 5: Add the Cream & Greens
- Stir in heavy cream and baby spinach/kale.
- Simmer for 2 more minutes, just until the greens wilt.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan, fresh basil, and extra red pepper flakes.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping!
Notes
✔ Want it extra creamy? Use extra heavy cream or stir in a bit of cream cheese.
✔ More veggies? Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
✔ Gluten-free? Swap tortellini for gluten-free pasta or gnocchi.
✔ No spicy sausage? Use mild Italian sausage and add 1 teaspoon cayenne or smoked paprika.