Name: Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini; 2 cups baby spinach; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Hey y'all! As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of hearty, flavorful soup. This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a delicious, cozy dinner that's perfect for cool nights, family meals, or casual get-togethers. Packed with savory sausage, pillowy tortellini, and sweet autumn veggies, it's a hug in a bowl. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Rich and hearty flavors from Italian sausage and tender tortellini.
Loaded with nutritious autumn veggies for extra color and taste.

One-pot meal with minimal cleanup—ideal for busy nights!
Ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
Easily customizable for dietary preferences and easy swaps.

Ingredients for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced

1 cup diced butternut squash (fresh or frozen)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)

½ teaspoon black pepper
9 oz (250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped

Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil or parsley, optional garnish

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.

Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned.
Stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and butternut squash. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Brothy Base

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and chicken broth.

Stir in oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tortellini and Finish

Add tortellini to the soup and simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, or until tortellini are tender and cooked through.
Stir in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle soup into bowls. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm!

Notes for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

If using frozen tortellini, add 2-3 extra minutes to cooking time.

For a creamier texture, stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end. Learn more about making creamy soups without cream.
For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and sausage (find details at Celiac.org).

Variations on Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Vegetarian: Swap sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.

Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
Extra Veggie: Add chopped kale, zucchini, or mushrooms for more nutrients and flavor.

Required Equipment

Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot

Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board
Ladle

Storage Instructions for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Let soup cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months (note: tortellini may soften).

Reheat gently over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Serve with crusty bread or homemade garlic knots for dunking.
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.

Pair with a glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling apple cider.

Pro Tips for the Best Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Brown the sausage well for maximum flavor and depth.
Use refrigerated or fresh tortellini for the best texture (find more on choosing pasta at Bon Appétit).

Don’t overcook the tortellini; add it right before serving to keep it al dente.

FAQ: Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Can I use chicken sausage or turkey sausage instead?: Absolutely! Both make delicious and lighter alternatives to traditional Italian sausage.
Can I make this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage ahead of time?: Yes! Make the base ahead and add tortellini and spinach when reheating for the freshest results.
How can I make this soup dairy-free?: Choose dairy-free tortellini and skip the Parmesan, or use a plant-based parmesan substitute.

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Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage