Name: Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tsp olive oil; 1 lb mild Italian sausage; 1 large yellow onion; 8 oz mushrooms; 1 tsp salt; 2 Large Carrots; 2 cloves garlic; 8 cups chicken stock; 1 lb cheese tortellini; 10 oz baby spinach; 15 oz cannellini beans; 2 tsp cider vinegar; ½ cup heavy cream

This creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach is a comforting bowl of deliciousness, perfect for chilly days. The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Photos of Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

When heading to the supermarket, make sure to pick up mild Italian sausage and cheese tortellini, which may not be staples in every home. Additionally, baby spinach and cannellini beans might also be less common but are essential for this recipe. Don't forget the heavy cream for that rich, creamy texture.

Ingredients For Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage And Spinach

Olive oil: Used to sauté the sausage and vegetables.

Mild Italian sausage: Adds a savory, meaty flavor to the soup.

Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic base.

Mushrooms: Adds earthiness and depth to the soup.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Carrots: Adds a slight sweetness and color.

Garlic: Infuses the soup with aromatic flavor.

Chicken stock: Forms the base of the soup, adding richness.

Cheese tortellini: Offers a creamy, cheesy bite in every spoonful.

Baby spinach: Adds a fresh, leafy element.

Cannellini beans: Adds creaminess and protein to the soup.

Cider vinegar: Provides a slight tang to balance the creaminess.

Heavy cream: Adds richness and a creamy texture.

One reader, Johnath Burke says:

This creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach is a comforting delight. The flavors blend perfectly, and the hearty ingredients make it a satisfying meal. The addition of pureed beans adds a unique creaminess. A must-try for soup lovers!

Johnath Burke

Techniques Required for Making Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach

How to brown sausage: Cook the sausage in a pan over medium-high heat until it is completely browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. How to sauté onions: Cook the onions in a pan with a small amount of fat until they are translucent and beginning to brown. How to cook mushrooms: Cook the mushrooms in a pan until they have released all their moisture and are cooked through. How to soften carrots: Cook the carrots in a pan until they look softened around the edges. How to make a garlic sauté: Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant. How to deglaze a pan: Pour a cup of chicken stock into the pot and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. How to cook tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. How to puree beans: In a medium-sized bowl, add the drained beans, half a cup of water, and apple cider vinegar, then puree using an immersion blender, food processor, or countertop blender. How to wilt spinach: Add the spinach to the pot and stir until wilted.

How To Make Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach

Creamy and cosy, this homemade tortellini soup takes a cue from Italian flavors and is loaded with sausages, beans, carrots, and spinach.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 55 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tspolive oil
1lbmild Italian sausage,removed from casings if purchased in links
1large yellow onion,diced
8ozmushrooms,diced
1tspsalt,divided
2large carrots,diced
2clovesgarlic,minced
8cupschicken stock
1lbcheese tortellini,fresh or frozen
10ozbaby spinach,kale, chard, or other green (torn into the size of baby spinach, if necessary)
15ozcannellini beans,(1 can)
2tspcider vinegar
½cupheavy cream,or whole milk

Instructions

Warm a teaspoon of oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat, and add the sausage. Cook the sausage until completely browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. When browned, remove the sausage from the pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Drain all but a tablespoon of fat from the pan. Add the onions and a half teaspoon of salt, and cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and beginning to brown.
Add the mushrooms and another half teaspoon of salt. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms have released all their moisture and are cooked through.
Add the carrots and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they look softened around the edges. Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant.
Pour a cup of chicken stock into the pot and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the sausage to the pot and add the remaining stock. Bring to a rapid simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat to a medium.
Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
In a medium-sized bowl, add the drained beans, half a cup water, and apple cider vinegar. Puree using an immersion blender (or a food processor or countertop blender).
When the tortellini is done, add the greens and stir until wilted. Stir in the pureed beans and heavy cream (or milk).
Taste and add salt, pepper, or another splash of cider vinegar as needed to perk up the flavors. Serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 720.59kcal
Fat: 31.56g
Saturated Fat: 12.87g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.75g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.64g
Carbohydrates: 73.89g
Fiber: 11.06g
Sugar: 8.24g
Protein: 36.81g
Cholesterol: 94.48mg
Sodium: 1219.78mg
Calcium: 288.57mg
Potassium: 1788.03mg
Iron: 8.79mg
Vitamin A: 401.58µg
Vitamin C: 14.94mg

Time-Saving Tips for This Tortellini Soup Recipe

Pre-chop vegetables: Prepare the onions, mushrooms, and carrots in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked Italian sausage to skip the browning step.

Buy pre-washed spinach: Save time by using pre-washed baby spinach.

Use canned beans: Use canned cannellini beans to avoid soaking and cooking.

Instant broth: Use instant chicken stock or bouillon cubes to quickly prepare the broth.

Pre-made tortellini: Use store-bought cheese tortellini to save time on preparation.

Immersion blender: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the beans, saving on cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe

olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a similar smoke point, making it a good alternative for sautéing.
mild italian sausage - Substitute with chicken sausage: Chicken sausage is a leaner option and can provide a similar flavor profile if seasoned well.
yellow onion - Substitute with white onion: White onions have a slightly sharper flavor but can be used interchangeably in most recipes.
mushrooms - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini can add a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the soup well.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a depth of flavor and umami, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian option and provides a similar base flavor.
cheese tortellini - Substitute with ricotta ravioli: Ricotta ravioli can offer a similar creamy texture and flavor profile.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale is a heartier green that can hold up well in soups and provides a similar nutritional profile.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a similar texture and mild flavor, making them a good substitute.
cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can provide a comparable tang to the soup.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can provide a creamy texture and a slight sweetness, making it a good dairy-free alternative.

Best Way to Present Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach

Serve in a shallow, wide bowl: This allows the creamy tortellini soup to spread out, showcasing the vibrant colors of the spinach, carrots, and mushrooms.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or basil on top to enhance the visual appeal and add a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a glossy finish and a touch of richness to the dish.
Use a microplane for cheese: Grate a small amount of Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving to add a delicate, savory touch.
Add a swirl of heavy cream: Create a beautiful swirl pattern with a spoonful of heavy cream on the surface of the soup for an elegant presentation.
Serve with artisan bread: Pair the soup with a slice of toasted artisan bread on the side, perhaps with a light spread of garlic butter.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the soup in a white or light-colored bowl to make the vibrant colors of the ingredients pop.
Place a whole tortellini on top: Reserve one tortellini and place it on top of the soup as a focal point, showcasing the main ingredient.
Add a touch of cider vinegar: Just before serving, add a few drops of cider vinegar to each bowl to brighten the flavors and add a hint of acidity.
Finish with a sprinkle of cracked black pepper: A light dusting of freshly cracked black pepper adds a final touch of seasoning and visual contrast.

Essential Tools for Making Tortellini Soup

Large soup pot: Used to cook the soup and combine all the ingredients together.
Teaspoon: For measuring the olive oil and salt.
Slotted spoon: To remove the browned sausage from the pot while leaving the fat behind.
Knife: For chopping the onion, mushrooms, carrots, and garlic.
Cutting board: A surface to safely chop the vegetables and garlic.
Measuring cups: To measure the chicken stock and heavy cream.
Medium-sized bowl: To hold the beans, water, and cider vinegar for pureeing.
Immersion blender: To puree the beans, water, and cider vinegar mixture.
Wooden spoon: For stirring the soup and scraping the browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.

How To Store and Freeze Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach

Let the creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator:
- Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For freezing:
- Transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed soup to a saucepan and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Note: The tortellini may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating, but the overall flavor of the soup will remain delicious.
If you find the soup has thickened too much after storing or freezing, you can thin it out with a little extra chicken stock or water when reheating.
For best results, consider adding fresh baby spinach when reheating the soup to maintain its vibrant color and texture.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Tortellini Soup

Stovetop method: transfer the leftover creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the tortellini and vegetables are heated through without becoming overcooked or mushy.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as this can cause the tortellini to become rubbery and the cream to separate.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover soup to a slow cooker and heat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal if you want to reheat a large batch of soup without having to monitor it closely. Stir the soup occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the tortellini from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Stir the soup halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is suitable if you want to reheat a large portion of soup and have extra time to spare.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. You may find that the flavors have mellowed or intensified during storage, so a little extra salt, pepper, or a splash of cider vinegar can help to brighten up the taste. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can thin it out with a little chicken stock or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Random Fact About Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach

This creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach combines the richness of heavy cream and the heartiness of cheese tortellini, making it a comforting and filling meal.

Is Making Tortellini Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

This creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach is quite cost-effective for a household. The use of mild Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and cannellini beans provides a hearty meal without breaking the bank. The vegetables like onions, carrots, and mushrooms add nutritional value and bulk. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Creamy Tortellini Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?

The creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few ingredients:

Italian sausage is high in saturated fat and sodium
Heavy cream adds significant amounts of saturated fat and calories
Cheese tortellini is a refined carbohydrate and can be high in sodium

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, carrots, and cannellini beans, which provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Use lean Italian turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead of regular Italian sausage to reduce the saturated fat content
Replace the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a plant-based alternative like unsweetened almond milk to cut down on saturated fat and calories
Opt for whole wheat or spinach tortellini to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Increase the amount of vegetables in the soup, such as adding celery, zucchini, or kale, to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content
Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe and consider using low-sodium chicken stock to help control sodium intake

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a tasty and more nutritious version of this creamy tortellini soup.

Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe

This creamy tortellini soup with sausage and spinach is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The mild Italian sausage adds a savory depth, while the mushrooms and carrots provide an earthy sweetness. The pureed cannellini beans and heavy cream create a luscious, velvety broth that perfectly complements the cheese-filled tortellini. The addition of spinach not only adds a vibrant color but also a nutritious element. The cider vinegar offers a subtle tang that balances the richness. Overall, it's a comforting and hearty dish, ideal for a cozy meal.

Enhance Your Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Bread: Imagine pairing your creamy tortellini soup with a warm, crusty garlic bread. The golden, buttery slices, infused with aromatic garlic and herbs, provide a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the velvety texture of the soup. It's a match made in culinary heaven, perfect for soaking up every last drop of that savory broth.

Caprese Salad: For a burst of freshness, consider a Caprese Salad. The vibrant tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil drizzled with a balsamic glaze will add a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to the rich, creamy soup. This classic Italian salad will elevate your meal with its simplicity and elegance.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Add a touch of earthy goodness with roasted Brussels sprouts. These little green gems, caramelized to perfection with a hint of olive oil and sea salt, bring a delightful crunch and a slightly bitter note that balances the creamy richness of the tortellini soup. It's a side dish that adds both texture and depth to your meal.

Parmesan Crusted Asparagus: Elevate your dining experience with parmesan crusted asparagus. The tender asparagus spears, coated in a crispy parmesan crust, offer a savory and slightly nutty flavor that complements the hearty soup. This side dish not only adds a touch of elegance but also a satisfying crunch.

Lemon Sorbet: Finish your meal on a refreshing note with a lemon sorbet. The zesty, icy treat cleanses the palate and provides a light, citrusy contrast to the creamy, savory flavors of the tortellini soup. It's the perfect way to end your culinary journey with a burst of brightness and a touch of sweetness.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Creamy Tortellini Soup

Hearty Minestrone Soup: Dive into a bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with vegetables, beans, and pasta. This classic Italian soup is perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup: Indulge in the creamy goodness of chicken gnocchi soup. This rich and flavorful soup combines tender pieces of chicken, soft gnocchi, and a medley of vegetables in a luscious, creamy broth.

Tuscan White Bean Soup: Experience the rustic flavors of Tuscan white bean soup. This comforting soup features cannellini beans, kale, and a hint of rosemary, all simmered together to create a hearty and satisfying meal.

Sausage And Kale Soup: Savor the robust taste of sausage and kale soup. This delightful soup combines spicy Italian sausage, fresh kale, and tender potatoes in a flavorful broth that will leave you craving more.

Spinach And Ricotta Stuffed Shells: Treat yourself to spinach and ricotta stuffed shells. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and spinach, then baked in a rich tomato sauce for a comforting and delicious meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage and Spinach

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms. The earthy mushrooms are filled with a delectable mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. The breadcrumbs add a delightful crunch, while the Parmesan cheese melts into a creamy, savory filling. A touch of garlic and parsley enhances the flavor, making these stuffed mushrooms an irresistible start to any meal.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic are combined with a drizzle of olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This mixture is then spooned onto toasted baguette slices, creating a delightful contrast between the crispy bread and the juicy topping. The basil adds a fragrant note, while the balsamic vinegar provides a tangy finish. Perfect for a light and refreshing appetizer.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Imagine a luscious Tiramisu to complement your creamy tortellini soup. This Italian classic features layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a rich mascarpone cheese mixture. The dessert is then dusted with cocoa powder, adding a touch of bitterness that balances the sweetness. Serve it chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together, creating a harmonious end to your meal.

Panna Cotta: Consider a silky Panna Cotta to finish your dinner on a light note. This creamy dessert is made with sweetened cream thickened with gelatin and often infused with vanilla. It is typically served with a fruit coulis or fresh berries, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy base. The smooth texture and delicate flavor make it a perfect pairing with your hearty soup.

Why trust this Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage and cheese tortellini with the nutritious goodness of baby spinach and cannellini beans. The addition of heavy cream creates a luscious, creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice cooks can achieve a delicious result. Trust this recipe for its balance of hearty ingredients and ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome, homemade meal.

Want to share your experience making this Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Spinach or discuss variations and tips? Join the conversation in our Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use hot Italian sausage if you like a bit of spice, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the soup ahead of time. Just keep the tortellini separate and add it when you're reheating the soup to prevent it from getting too soft.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Sure thing! Just thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup. It works just as well as fresh spinach.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk if you want a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the soup might be a bit less creamy.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might need to add a bit more broth or water as the tortellini can absorb some of the liquid.