As the weather shifts and a cool breeze whispers through the windows, I crave the warmth and comfort of a delightful bowl of soup. That’s when my go-to, Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach and Fennel, comes to the rescue. This recipe not only comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy weeknights, but it also offers a hearty, nutritious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant spinach makes each spoonful a little celebration. Plus, with its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is bound to chase away any lingering chill. Are you ready to indulge in a bowl of cozy goodness?
Why is this soup a must-try?
Warmth and Comfort: This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect antidote to chilly nights, bringing irresistible warmth to your table.
Quick and Easy: Whipping up this dish takes just 35 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed Delight: The combination of savory sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Nutritious Ingredients: Filled with wholesome veggies, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, keeping your family satisfied and energized.
Crowd-Pleasing Meals: Whether it's a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this soup is sure to be a hit, appealing to both kids and adults alike!
Versatile Option: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it a flexible recipe that can adapt to your preferences.
Sausage Tortellini Soup Ingredients
Get ready to create a flavorful feast!
For the Soup Base
- Olive oil – adds a subtle richness to the soup.
- Yellow onion – brings sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Fennel bulb – imparts a unique anise flavor that complements the sausage beautifully.
- Garlic – infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.
For the Protein
- Italian sausage – this is the star ingredient that provides a hearty, savory taste.
For the Broth
- Crushed tomatoes – adds a vibrant color and tanginess that enhances the overall flavor.
- Chicken broth – serves as the base for a comforting and delicious soup.
For Creaminess
- Heavy cream – creates a rich, velvety texture that makes each spoonful delightful.
For the Noodles
- Cheese tortellini – offers a cheesy burst that pairs wonderfully with the soup.
For the Veggies
- Fresh spinach – adds a pop of color and a boost of nutrients.
- Salt – to taste, enhance all the wonderful flavors.
- Black pepper – for a touch of warmth and spice.
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese – a delicious sprinkle on top adds extra depth and nuttiness.
Dive into a warm bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel and let its comforting flavors wrap you in cozy goodness!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel
Step 1: Heat the Oil and Sauté Vegetables
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 1 diced yellow onion and 1 diced fennel bulb, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to allow the vegetables to release their sweet aromas.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Flavor
Stir in 3 minced cloves of garlic and cook for an additional minute. As the garlic becomes fragrant, keep an eye on it to prevent burning, which would introduce bitterness. This step sets a wonderful flavor base for the Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel.
Step 3: Brown the Sausage
Next, add 1 pound of Italian sausage, removing the casings before placing it into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage apart as it cooks. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until it’s browned and fully cooked, with a lovely caramel color forming, enhancing the soup's richness.
Step 4: Introduce Tomatoes and Broth
If there's any excess grease, carefully drain it from the pot. Then, add a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld for about 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors of the sausage and vegetables to intensify, creating a rich and hearty broth for your Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Step 6: Cook the Tortellini
Now, add 9 ounces of cheese tortellini to the pot, stirring gently. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3–5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and floating to the top. This step makes your soup hearty, offering a delightful pasta texture with every bite.
Step 7: Add Cream for Richness
Lower the heat further, and pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring well until fully combined. Allow the soup to heat through for 1–2 minutes, creating a luscious, warming broth. The cream adds a velvety touch, enhancing the overall comforting feel of your Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel.
Step 8: Incorporate Fresh Spinach
Finally, toss in 3 cups of fresh spinach and gently stir until it wilts, about 1–2 minutes. The vibrant green of the spinach not only adds color but also boosts the nutritional value. Ensure the soup maintains a cozy warmth, ready to be served.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Taste your soup and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed, bringing out the depth of flavors in your Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel. A final balance of seasoning elevates the dish, making every bite truly satisfying.
Step 10: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and for the finishing touch, sprinkle with ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a nutty flavor and a touch of salty goodness, perfect for enhancing the overall experience of this delightful soup.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prep the soup base (steps 1-5) up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. The tortellini can be cooked right before serving, ensuring they remain tender. Additionally, you can add fresh spinach just moments before serving to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, stir in the heavy cream, and finish by adding the tortellini and spinach for a comforting, quick meal that tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
Expert Tips for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and tortellini; their vibrant flavors elevate the soup, making your Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel truly shine.
Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time while sautéing the onions and fennel. Properly caramelized veggies add a depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Adjust Garlic to Taste: While garlic adds wonderful flavor, be cautious not to overdo it. A little goes a long way; avoid bitterness by watching your cooking time.
Modify Creaminess: For a lighter soup, feel free to use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream alternative. The goal is to achieve your desired creaminess.
Mind the Tortellini Cooking Time: Follow package directions carefully; overcooking tortellini can lead to mushy pasta that detracts from your Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference in elevating your dish!
Sausage Tortellini Soup Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and transform this recipe into something uniquely yours!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that's still rich and luscious.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the pot for a fiery kick that complements the sausage beautifully.
- Veggie-Loaded: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and vibrant color.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or a similar-shaped gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
- Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh basil or thyme at the end for an aromatic boost that elevates the soup's overall flavor.
- Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest brighten the soup and adds a refreshing contrast to the rich broth.
- Meatless Option: Swap the sausage for hearty, sautéed mushrooms or lentils for a delightful vegetarian twist that’s still satisfying.
- Creamy Spin: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding tortellini, creating a silky base that coats each ingredient beautifully.
What to Serve with Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel
As you prepare to dive into a warm, comforting bowl of soup, think about pairing it with delicious sides and drinks that will enhance this cozy experience.
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Garlic Bread: The crisp, buttery crunch of garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, adding a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
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Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad introduces bright, crisp elements that cut through the richness of the soup, creating a balanced meal.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites offer a nutty flavor that complements the savory notes of the sausage while adding a great crunch.
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Cheese and Herb Scones: Lightly buttery and infused with herbs, these scones are a delightful way to soak up the soup, enhancing every morsel.
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Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio's crispness will balance the soup's richness beautifully, making each sip a refreshing complement.
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Chocolate Mousse: A small bowl of silky chocolate mousse provides a sweet finish to the meal, offering a rich, creamy dessert sensation to perfect the evening.
How to Store and Freeze Sausage Tortellini Soup
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
Thawing: To enjoy your frozen Sausage Tortellini Soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it appears too thick after freezing. Enjoy the comforting flavors once again!
Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel Recipe FAQs
What type of fennel should I use for this soup?
I recommend using a firm fennel bulb that feels heavy for its size and has green fronds. Look for bulbs with a white or light green color and no dark spots or soft spots. The fresher the fennel, the more flavor you'll get in your Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach Fennel!
How should I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, I suggest reheating it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Don't be afraid to add a splash of broth if it thickens too much upon refrigeration.
Can I freeze the Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! This hearty soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Don’t forget to leave a little space at the top of the container to allow for expansion. Just remember, the tortellini might become a bit softer upon reheating.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If you find that your Sausage Tortellini Soup is thicker than you’d like, no worries! As you reheat it, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. The flavors will still be wonderfully rich, and this is an easy fix!
Is this soup safe for my dog to eat?
While many ingredients in this soup are safe for dogs (like spinach and broth), it's best to avoid it for them due to the seasoned sausage and cream. If you want to share, consider making a separate broth with plain chicken and a few veggies, which would be much more dog-friendly.
Can I substitute the tortellini in the recipe?
Yes, you can! If you want to lighten things up, try using another type of pasta or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different shapes of pasta will have varying cooking durations. Feel free to get creative!
Indulgent Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and fennel, cooking for 5-6 minutes until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Carefully drain excess grease and add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring well. Bring to a boil for 2-3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10-12 minutes.
- Add cheese tortellini and cook for 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream, heating through for 1-2 minutes.
- Toss in fresh spinach and stir until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste before serving.
- Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
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