Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort-in-a-bowl meal. It combines crumbled Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, vegetables, and herbs in a rich, creamy tomato broth. This one-pot wonder is easy to prepare, ready in about 30 minutes, and perfect for chilly nights, weeknight dinners, or cozy weekends at home. Every spoonful is hearty, satisfying, and layered with flavor—making it a family favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

For more bold and comforting meals, check out these Garlic Pork Bites or try a flavorful stir-fry like the Takeaway-Style Wandering Dragon Stir Fry.

credit: Pinterest

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Soup:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  Crumbled and browned for a bold, savory base.
  
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
  Helps sauté the veggies if sausage is lean.
  
• 1 small onion, diced
  Adds depth and sweetness to the broth.
  
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
  Essential for rich, aromatic flavor.
  
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  Brings a classic herb blend to the soup.
  
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  For subtle heat—adjust to taste.
  
• 4 cups chicken broth
  The savory base of the soup.
  
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  Adds acidity and tomato richness.
  
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  Intensifies the tomato flavor in the broth.
  
• 2–3 cups refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
  The hearty, cheesy pasta that makes this soup so satisfying.
  
• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
  Adds color, texture, and nutrients.
  

To Finish:

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
  Swirled in at the end for a rich, creamy finish.
  
• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
  Optional, but adds nutty depth and extra savory notes.
  

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
  
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
  
• Total Time: 30 minutes
  
• Serves: 6
  

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  
• Knife and cutting board
  
• Measuring cups and spoons
  
• Wooden spoon or spatula
  

How to Make Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup: Step-by-Step

1. Brown the Sausage

In a large pot over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbled. Drain excess grease and transfer sausage to a plate.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Broth

Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Add Tortellini and Sausage

Return the sausage to the pot and add the tortellini. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through.

5. Stir in Greens and Cream

Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve Warm

Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve with crusty bread for dunking!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
  
• Protein: 22g
  
• Fat: 31g
  
• Carbohydrates: 30g
  
• Fiber: 3g
  
• Sugar: 4g
  
• Sodium: 780mg
  
• Cholesterol: 75mg
  

Tips and Variations

• Use Sweet or Spicy Sausage: Tailor it to your taste—or mix both for depth.
  
• Try Different Greens: Kale, arugula, or Swiss chard all work well.
  
• Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of cream.
  
• Go Vegetarian: Swap the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use veggie broth.
  
• Add Veggies: Diced carrots, celery, or zucchini add extra nutrients and texture.
  

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigerator:

Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

For best texture, freeze the broth and sausage mixture without the tortellini or cream. Add those fresh when reheating.

Reheat:

Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is the definition of cozy. It’s rich, creamy, slightly spicy, and loaded with comforting ingredients that make every bite feel like a hug in a bowl. With minimal prep and one pot to clean, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like something special. Plus, it reheats beautifully—making it great for meal prep or next-day leftovers.

Final Thoughts

I love how effortlessly satisfying this soup is. The combination of cheesy tortellini, flavorful sausage, and creamy tomato broth checks every box for a comfort meal. It’s the kind of dish you turn to again and again, especially during cold months or when you need something cozy and nourishing. Whether you serve it with a salad or just a chunk of bread, this recipe is sure to warm hearts and bellies.

Credit: Pinterest

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Just add a few more minutes to the cooking time to ensure it cooks through.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes—make the soup base ahead and add tortellini and cream just before serving for best texture.

What can I use instead of cream?
Half-and-half or whole milk work, though the result will be less rich. You can also use dairy-free cream alternatives.

How spicy is this soup?
It depends on the sausage and whether you use red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preference.

What should I serve with it?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, Caesar salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich pair beautifully.

For a slow-cooked alternative with deep, smoky flavor, try this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with Barbecue Sauce.