Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup

This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a hearty, flavor-packed dish featuring spicy Italian sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich tomato broth. With a hint of heat and creamy goodness, this easy soup is perfect for chilly nights or when you need a comforting meal in under an hour!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold & Spicy Flavor – The heat from Italian sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini.
• One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup and minimal effort required.
• Comforting & Hearty – A warm, filling soup perfect for winter or cozy evenings.
• Customizable – Adjust spice levels, swap proteins, or add extra veggies.
• Great for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Soup:

• Spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Crushed tomatoes (canned)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream (for creaminess)
• Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• Spinach or kale (for added greens)
• Olive oil

For Seasoning:

• Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
• Italian seasoning
• Salt & black pepper
• Paprika (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh basil or parsley
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat Olive Oil – In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Brown the Sausage – Cook until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles.
3. Add Onion & Garlic – Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

1. Add Tomatoes & Broth – Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth.
2. Season the Soup – Mix in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
3. Simmer – Let the soup cook for 10 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 3: Add Tortellini & Spinach

1. Stir in Tortellini – Add fresh or frozen tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
2. Add Spinach – Stir in spinach and let it wilt.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

1. Stir in Heavy Cream – For a creamy, silky broth.
2. Adjust Seasoning – Taste and add more salt, pepper, or spice if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Garnish

1. Ladle into Bowls – Top with Parmesan, basil, and red pepper flakes.
2. Enjoy! – Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy – Use hot Italian sausage and more red pepper flakes.
• Mild Version – Use sweet Italian sausage instead.
• Vegetarian Option – Swap sausage for mushrooms and use veggie broth.
• Low-Carb/Keto – Use zucchini noodles instead of tortellini.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze without tortellini for up to 3 months (add fresh tortellini when reheating).
• Reheating: Warm over medium heat on the stove or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Ravioli, gnocchi, or regular pasta work well.

How do I thicken the broth?

Let it simmer longer, or stir in a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use coconut milk instead of cream.

What pairs well with this soup?

Crusty bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes! Just slice and add it after sautéing the onions.

How do I make this in a slow cooker?

Brown sausage first, then cook everything (except cream and tortellini) on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cream and tortellini before serving.

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes! Add 2 extra minutes of cooking time.

Can I add more veggies?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers make great additions.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Just add the tortellini when reheating to prevent sogginess.

How do I get the best flavor?

Use high-quality sausage and let the soup simmer longer for richer taste.

Conclusion

This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a cozy, comforting meal loaded with bold flavors and creamy goodness. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s a guaranteed hit. Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of deliciousness!

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