There’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. With tender cheese-stuffed tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and a rich, flavorful broth, this dish is comfort food at its finest.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter night when I was craving something satisfying but easy to make. It quickly became a family favorite, earning a permanent spot in our meal rotation. Packed with bold flavors and ready in under an hour, it’s the perfect combination of quick and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Get ready to fall head over heels for this delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup! It’s everything you want in a cozy meal, with layers of flavor and a creamy, comforting texture that’s hard to resist.

First off, this soup is ridiculously easy to make. With just one pot and simple ingredients, you can whip up a hearty dinner in less than 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a fuss-free meal.

You’ll also love how versatile it is. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe scales beautifully and can easily be customized to fit your preferences. Swap out the sausage for chicken or use spinach tortellini for a twist!

Let’s not forget how it’s a crowd-pleaser. The cheesy tortellini and flavorful sausage make it a hit with kids and adults alike, turning any dinner into a restaurant-worthy experience.

Finally, this soup is a meal in itself. With protein, pasta, and veggies all in one bowl, you don’t even need to add a side dish—though a slice of crusty bread for dipping is highly recommended.

Ready to see how it all comes together? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Sausage Tortellini Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one plays an essential role:

Italian Sausage: The backbone of this dish. I prefer using mild Italian sausage for a balance of flavor, but spicy sausage works wonderfully if you like a little heat.
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh, refrigerated tortellini are best for their soft texture and rich filling. If you’re in a pinch, frozen or dried tortellini will also work—just adjust the cooking time.
Crushed Tomatoes: These add a deep, tangy flavor to the broth. Look for high-quality canned tomatoes for the best results.
Chicken Broth: A good-quality broth makes all the difference in soups. Use homemade or store-bought low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its signature creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk.
Spinach: Adds a pop of color and nutrients. Baby spinach is best, as it wilts quickly and blends seamlessly into the soup.
Garlic and Onions: These aromatic staples build the foundation of flavor. Don’t skip them!

Special Equipment

You’ll only need a large soup pot or Dutch oven to make this recipe. A sturdy ladle for serving is also handy, especially if you’re sharing with a crowd.

How To Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Making Sausage Tortellini Soup is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready in no time:

Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside.

Next, add the diced onions to the same pot, cooking them in the flavorful drippings left by the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. This step is key to building a rich, deep flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, stir in the reserved sausage, followed by the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini) until tender.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld together.

That’s it! Your soup is ready to serve. Ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil if you like.

Storage Options

This Sausage Tortellini Soup stores beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making the soup even more delicious.
Freezer: While the soup can be frozen, the tortellini may lose some of its texture when thawed. If freezing, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it fresh when reheating.
Reheating: Warm leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its consistency.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Low-Carb Option: Swap the tortellini for zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets to cut down on carbs.
Add More Veggies: Stir in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
Cheese Lovers’ Twist: Stir in an extra handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for a super cheesy finish.
Spice It Up: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.

The beauty of this soup is how adaptable it is. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

With its bold flavors, creamy broth, and comforting ingredients, this Sausage Tortellini Soup is bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cozying up on a cold night or feeding a hungry family, this recipe hits all the right notes. Give it a try, and let me know what you think—I can’t wait to hear how you make it your own!