Sausage Tortellini Soup

Enjoy a creamy, comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup filled with hearty flavors for the ultimate cozy meal!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 package cheese tortellini (9 oz)
• 2 cups spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

1. Cook Sausage:
   In a large pot over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Simmer Soup:
   Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and add the 14 oz can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) back into the pot along with the cooked sausage. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Cream & Tortellini:
   Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and the 9 oz package of cheese tortellini. Allow the soup to cook for about 5 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
5. Finish with Spinach:
   Add the 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach into the pot and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy warm. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal!

Tips:

• Customize Your Greens: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a kick, consider using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Popular Questions & Answers

Q1: Can I use other types of sausage?

• A: Yes, you can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free version.

Q2: Can I add more vegetables?

• A: Absolutely! You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions.

Q3: What can I substitute for heavy cream?

• A: You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

Q4: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

• A: Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully overnight.

Q5: Is this soup freezer-friendly?

• A: Yes, it freezes well! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, adding more broth or cream as needed.