One of my all-time favorite things about Fall is soup. When I think of cozy evenings, nothing beats a big pot of Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup simmering on the stove. This soup is perfect for various occasions, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Not only is it hearty and satisfying, but it’s also easy to make and even easier to store for later. You can freeze half for future meals or pack individual servings for lunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just about an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy nights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of sausage, spinach, and tortellini creates a deliciously rich flavor in every bite.
- Versatile Meal: It works well as a main course or a side dish, adapting beautifully to different occasions.
- Nutritious Choice: Packed with beans and spinach, this soup offers a healthy dose of protein and vitamins.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals later in the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking process seamless, gather the following essential tools before you start preparing your soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows all the ingredients to mix thoroughly without spilling over.
- Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your soup.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 15 oz can of tomato sauce
– 1 48 oz chicken broth + 1 8 oz chicken broth
– 2 14.5 oz cans of Fire Roasted tomatoes
– 1 15 oz White Cannellini beans (drained & rinsed)
– 2 8 oz packages of tortellini (we like the cheese ones or spinach)
– 8 chicken sausage links (cut into rings about 1/8 inch thick)
– 1/2 yellow onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup spinach
– 1 1/2 tsp basil
– 2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp Chile Con Carne Seasoning
– if you don’t have that I would do 1/4 paprika (oregano, chili powder — however that spice is phenomenal! Worth purchasing)
– 1 tbsp arrow root powder + 2 tbsp warm water
– 1/2 cup Half & Half
How to Make Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, add in the olive oil and turn it to medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Let them simmer for about 3–4 minutes until they are fragrant. Next, add in the sliced chicken sausages. Cook them with the onion and garlic for another few minutes before adding spices: cumin, basil, and salt. Stir everything together.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add in the tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, remaining basil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and Chile Con Carne seasoning. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover it and reduce to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for at least an hour; if you have time, let it go for two or three hours for deeper flavor.
Step 3: Cook Tortellini
Once simmered, add the tortellini to the pot. Bring back to a boil briefly before reducing heat again to simmer for about five minutes so that the tortellini cooks through. After that, lower heat further and add in the Half & Half along with broken spinach pieces and drained beans.
Step 4: Thicken Soup
In a small dish combine arrowroot powder with warm water until fully mixed. Gradually stir this mixture into your soup while turning up heat slightly (do not boil). Allow it to thicken—this should take about one or two minutes—then reduce heat back down low until ready to serve.
Step 5: Serve
When ready to serve your Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup, garnish with fresh basil on top along with some grated cheese like Parmesan if desired!
How to Serve Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Serving Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be elevated with a few thoughtful touches. Here are some suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Add grated Parmesan for a rich and savory finish.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread complements the flavors beautifully.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess to your meal.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad gives a tangy contrast to the soup.
Offer Extra Toppings
- Red Pepper Flakes: Provide red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons offer texture and an extra layer of flavor.
How to Perfect Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and herbs enhance the flavor significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adjust salt and spices according to your preference.
- Simmer Longer for Richer Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors—up to three hours if possible!
- Add Cheese Last: Stir in cheese at the end to maintain its creamy texture without clumping.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly toasted with butter and garlic, ideal for dipping!
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing and croutons.
- Caprese Salad: Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender—a colorful addition!
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy, protein-packed salad mixed with vegetables and lemon vinaigrette.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil for a light bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup can be a breeze, but there are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Sautéing Step: Many people rush through this step, but sautéing the onion and garlic is essential for developing flavor. Take your time to let them brown slightly before adding other ingredients.
- Not Using Enough Seasoning: This soup requires a good amount of seasoning to bring out the flavors. Don’t be shy with herbs and spices; taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Following cooking times closely is important. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy, ruining the texture of your soup. Aim for that perfect al dente bite!
- Ignoring Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and herbs make a big difference in flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh over dried to elevate your soup.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is a base for your soup, so using low-quality or bland broth can impact the overall taste. Invest in a good quality chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Best enjoyed within 3-4 days.
- Cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion.
Reheating Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each session until heated through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup healthy?
This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients like spinach and cannellini beans, providing fiber and protein while being lower in calories compared to cream-based soups.
Can I customize the Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! You can add veggies like carrots or bell peppers, switch up the protein by using turkey sausage or leave out meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage instead of mild chicken sausage.
Is it possible to make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based tortellini along with tofu or tempeh instead of sausage.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily adapt it to fit your taste preferences by experimenting with different vegetables or proteins. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with Easy Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup, a delightful blend of hearty flavors that will cozy up your evenings. This comforting soup combines savory chicken sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant spinach in a rich tomato broth, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and festive gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, ready in under an hour, and offers the convenience of being freezer-friendly for future meals. Whether served as a main dish or paired with crusty bread and a fresh salad, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 8 chicken sausage links (cut into rings about 1/8 inch thick)
- 1/2 yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 15 oz can of tomato sauce
- 2 14.5 oz cans of Fire Roasted tomatoes
- 1 48 oz chicken broth + 1 8 oz chicken broth
- 1 15 oz White Cannellini beans (drained & rinsed)
- 2 8 oz packages of tortellini (we like the cheese ones or spinach)
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 1/2 tsp basil
- 1/2 cup Half & Half
Instructions
- Sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato sauce, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, spices, and let simmer for at least an hour.
- Add tortellini to the pot and cook until tender. Stir in Half & Half, spinach, and beans.
- Thicken the soup with arrowroot powder mixed with warm water.
- Serve garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
