Creamy Spinach and Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage

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When it comes to comfort food, few things are as satisfying as a bowl of hearty soup. This Creamy Spinach and Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Packed with flavors and easy to make, this soup is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend meal.

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Ingredients and Preparation

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 20 oz three cheese tortellini (fresh tortellini recommended)
• 10-20 oz fresh spinach
• 32 oz chicken broth
• 8 oz tomato sauce
• 20 oz tomatoes and green chilies
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Seasonings

• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• a pinch of salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For Serving

• Grated parmesan cheese

Cooking Process

Start with the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using olive oil to sauté some garlic cloves before adding the sausage.

Adding Liquids

Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and tomatoes with green chilies. If you want a soup with less sodium, opt for a low-sodium chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter soup base.

Bringing Soup to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil. This step is crucial as it helps to blend the flavors of the tomato products, whether you’re using whole tomatoes or tomato paste, with the broth and sausage.

Incorporating the Tortellini

Add the cheesy tortellini to the boiling soup. Tortellini spinach soup is known for its rich texture and flavor. Be mindful of the cooking time indicated on the fresh pasta package to avoid overcooking.

Seasoning the Soup

Season with Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes. The seasoning can transform a simple soup into one of the best soups with lots of flavor.

Adding Spinach

Once the tortellini is fully cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the soup. Add in the fresh spinach. The spinach not only adds a healthy dose of vitamin C and dietary fiber but also enriches the soup with its fresh flavor.

Final Touches

Let the soup cool slightly on the stove. This is the best part as the flavors meld together, making it even better the next day. Stir in the heavy cream to add a luxurious texture to your creamy tortellini soup.

Serving

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. This delicious soup recipe is a great way to warm up and satisfy your hunger.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, place the soup in a freezer bag and freeze. This makes it a great soup for meal prep.

Reheating

Gently reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat or in a microwave. Add a little water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.

Variations and Tips

Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian tortellini soup, use veggie broth and skip the sausage. You might also add white beans or swiss chard for extra nutrition.

Different Cooking Methods

This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. For the crock pot, cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the tortellini and spinach in the last 30 minutes.

Add More Veggies

Boost the nutritional value by adding other vegetables like medium onion, red bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh basil for added aroma.

Switch the Protein

If you’re not a fan of sausage, try using rotisserie chicken or even leftover pork roast. These options can easily turn this into a different but equally delicious soup recipe.

For the Spice Lovers

Enhance the spice level by opting for spicy Italian sausage or adding more red pepper flakes. A little bit of hot sauce can also do the trick.

Why This Soup Works

This creamy spinach tortellini soup is a perfect example of a great recipe that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to get a nutritious and delicious meal on the table without spending a long time cooking. The combination of hearty Italian sausage, creamy broth, and fresh vegetables makes it a balanced dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with Bread

Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious tomato-flavored broth.

Salad on the Side

A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing makes a great side dish, balancing the richness of the soup.

Cheese Toppings

Experiment with different cheese toppings like shredded mozzarella or smoked provolone for added flavor.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner option or a delicious way to warm up on a cold day, this Creamy Spinach and Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage is a perfect choice. Its rich flavors, versatility, and quick cooking time make it a favorite among easy tortellini soup recipes. Next time you’re pondering over what to cook on a busy night, remember this delicious and comforting soup – it’s a surefire way to satisfy your hunger and delight your taste buds with minimal effort. Plus, the leftovers make a great lunch the next day, often tasting even better as the flavors continue to meld.

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