Name: Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups fresh spinach leaves; 9 oz cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen); 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Hey y'all! If you're craving cozy, hearty flavors that wrap you up in a warm hug, this Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal is for you. Juicy Italian sausage, plump cheese tortellini, and savory veggies come together in a rich broth for a soup that's perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or anytime you need some comfort food magic. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Quick and easy: Ready in just 40 minutes with minimal prep.
Ultra comforting: Creamy, flavorful broth and cheesy tortellini make every bite satisfying.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the savory sausage and pasta combo.
Versatile: Great for weeknights, meal prep, or casual gatherings with friends.
One-pot meal: Less cleanup and all the flavors meld beautifully together.

Ingredients for Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casing removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
10 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh baby spinach
½ cup heavy cream
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions: How to Make Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Prep the Ingredients

Dice onion, slice carrots and celery, mince garlic, and chop parsley if using.

Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat.
Add sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Remove excess fat if needed.

Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Simmer the Soup Base

Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

Add Tortellini and Spinach

Add cheese tortellini and simmer for 5 minutes (or according to package instructions) until tender.
Stir in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes until wilted.

Finish with Cream

Lower heat and stir in heavy cream. Warm through but do not boil.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Notes: Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal Tips

For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Learn more about types of Italian sausage.
Tortellini cooks quickly, so avoid overcooking to keep it plump and tender.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use turkey sausage.

Variations on Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Vegetarian: Swap sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Spicy Tuscan: Add a pinch of chili flakes and some chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
Extra Veggies: Stir in zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the aromatics.

Required Equipment

Large Dutch oven or soup pot
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Ladle

Storage Instructions for Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Cool soup completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For freezing, omit tortellini, freeze soup for up to 2 months, and add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if soup thickens.

Suggested Pairings and Serving Recommendations

Crusty garlic bread or a classic Caesar salad make tasty sides.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper for a finishing touch.
Pair with a crisp Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.

Pro Tips for Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Brown sausage thoroughly to build deep, savory flavor as your soup base (learn more here).
Use refrigerated (not dried) tortellini for the softest, cheesiest texture.
Add spinach right at the end to keep it bright and tender.

FAQ: Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal

Can I use frozen tortellini?: Yes, add frozen tortellini directly to the simmering soup and cook for 2-3 extra minutes.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?: Swap in your favorite gluten-free tortellini and check that your sausage and broth are gluten-free.
Can I make Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prepare the soup base ahead, then add tortellini and spinach when reheating for best texture.

Sausage and Tortellini Soup Comfort Meal