Sausage Tortellini Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight

Directions for Making Sausage Tortellini Soup

Follow these steps to create a warm, comforting pot of Sausage Tortellini Soup:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving a bit of the fat in the pot for added flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the flavor base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until the tortellini is tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Cream

Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt into the soup. If you prefer a creamier soup, add the heavy cream and stir well. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of sausage, tortellini, and vegetables in every spoonful.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

• Shortcuts: Use pre-chopped vegetables and pre-cooked sausage to save time. You can also use frozen tortellini straight from the freezer.
• Variations: Swap the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use veggie sausage and vegetable broth, and replace tortellini with your favorite vegetarian pasta.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage to give the soup a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.