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Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, followed by the Italian seasoning. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-10 minutes for frozen.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach and Cream
Once the tortellini is tender, add the fresh spinach to the pot and stir until wilted. Reduce the heat to low, then slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and creamy tortellini soup!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Tips and Recipe Variations
- Sausage Options: Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetable Additions: You can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: For added depth, include fresh herbs like basil or thyme, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a creamy, dairy-free version.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Pairing Suggestions
Enhance your meal with these delicious sides:
- Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.
- Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad with vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup nicely.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These make for a fantastic addition and are always a crowd-pleaser!
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