Sausage Tortellini Soup: the ultimate comfort food that’s ready in under an hour! Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of savory sausage filling your kitchen, and a warm bowl of hearty soup in your hands. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling completely satisfied.
Tortellini, those delightful ring-shaped pasta pockets, have a rich history rooted in the Emilia region of Italy. Legend has it that they were inspired by the goddess Venus’s navel! Whether that’s true or not, they’ve become a beloved staple in Italian cuisine and beyond. Combining them with the robust flavor of sausage creates a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
What makes Sausage Tortellini Soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of creamy broth, tender tortellini, and the satisfying bite of Italian sausage. People adore this dish because it’s incredibly versatile, easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze! So, ditch the takeout menu and let’s dive into this delicious and comforting recipe together. You won’t regret it!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Browning the Sausage and Sautéing Vegetables
- Get started by browning the sausage. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the sausage well as it cooks; you don’t want any large chunks.
- Remove the sausage from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot this will add flavor to the vegetables. If there’s excessive fat, you can drain off a little, leaving about a tablespoon or two.
- Now it’s time to sauté the vegetables. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to become translucent and the carrots and celery to be slightly tender.
- Add the garlic and spices. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma at this stage is just wonderful!
Simmering the Soup
- Pour in the liquids. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will add depth to your soup.
- Add the beans and sausage. Stir in the rinsed and drained cannellini beans and the cooked sausage. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer for at least 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. This is a great time to prepare any side dishes or set the table.
Adding the Tortellini and Spinach
- Add the tortellini. Stir in the cheese tortellini. If using frozen tortellini, add them directly to the soup. If using fresh tortellini, they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them.
- Cook until the tortellini are tender. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini and 5-7 minutes for frozen. The tortellini should be tender but not mushy.
- Stir in the spinach. Add the chopped fresh spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a nice pop of color and nutrients to the soup.
Seasoning and Serving
- Season to taste. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste it first before adding any salt, as the chicken broth and sausage may already be salty.
- Serve immediately. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil would also be a lovely addition.
- Enjoy! This Sausage Tortellini Soup is best served immediately while the tortellini are still tender and the soup is hot. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day.
Tips and Variations
- Spice it up: For a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or kale.
- Use different beans: You can substitute other types of beans for the cannellini beans, such as kidney beans or Great Northern beans.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can also add some plant-based sausage crumbles for a similar flavor and texture.
- Add cream: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end.
- Make it ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the tortellini just before serving, as they can become mushy if stored in the soup for too long.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Again, it’s best to add the tortellini after thawing and reheating for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great served with:
- Crusty bread for dipping
- A side salad
- Garlic bread
- Grilled cheese sandwiches
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Per serving, without toppings):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Why This Recipe Works
This Sausage Tortellini Soup recipe is a winner because it’s:
- Easy to make: It requires minimal effort and uses simple ingredients.
- Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage, vegetables, and herbs creates a rich and satisfying flavor.
- Hearty and filling: It’s a complete meal that will keep you full and satisfied.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, beans, or spices.
- Family-friendly: It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Troubleshooting
- Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth to thin it out.
- Soup is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Sausage is too greasy: Drain off excess fat after browning the sausage.
- Tortellini are mushy: Don’t overcook the tortellini. Cook them according to the package directions and check for doneness frequently.
- Soup is bland: Add more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Italian sausage: You can substitute ground beef, ground turkey, or chorizo for the Italian sausage.
- Chicken broth: You can substitute vegetable broth or beef broth for the chicken broth.
- Cannellini beans: You can substitute kidney beans, Great Northern beans, or chickpeas for the cannellini beans.
- Cheese tortellini: You can substitute meat tortellini, spinach tortellini, or any other type of filled pasta for the cheese tortellini.
- Spinach: You can substitute kale, Swiss chard, or other leafy greens for the spinach.
- Diced tomatoes: You can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Spoon
- Slotted spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Make it a Meal Prep Recipe
This soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Simply store the soup in
Conclusion:
This isn’t just another noodle dish; it’s a vibrant explosion of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to the bustling hawker centers of Singapore! Seriously, if you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal, this Singapore Noodles recipe is an absolute must-try. The combination of the delicate rice vermicelli, the savory curry powder, the succulent shrimp and pork (or your protein of choice!), and the crisp vegetables creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible.
But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to make it your own. Not a fan of shrimp? No problem! Substitute with chicken, tofu, or even more pork. Want to add a little extra heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha will do the trick. You can also swap out the vegetables for whatever you have on hand bell peppers, snow peas, and bean sprouts all work beautifully.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
For a complete meal, I love serving these noodles with a side of steamed bok choy or a simple cucumber salad. A sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving adds a delightful finishing touch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a fried egg on top for an extra layer of richness.
Thinking about variations? Consider these:
* Vegetarian Singapore Noodles: Simply omit the meat and shrimp and add extra tofu or vegetables. A splash of vegetable broth can enhance the flavor.
* Spicy Singapore Noodles: Increase the amount of curry powder or add a chopped chili pepper to the stir-fry.
* Deluxe Singapore Noodles: Add scallops, calamari, or other seafood for a truly decadent experience.
I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or even a satisfying lunch. The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list! Most of these items are pantry staples, and the rest are easily found at your local grocery store. Once you’ve gathered everything, the cooking process is a breeze. Just follow the simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious plate of Singapore Noodles in no time.
I truly believe that cooking should be fun and accessible to everyone. This recipe is designed to be just that easy to follow, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to deliver amazing results. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Singapore Noodles for yourself. Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Happy cooking!
Sausage Tortellini Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Hearty and flavorful Sausage Tortellini Soup with Italian sausage, vegetables, cannellini beans, and cheese tortellini in a savory broth. A comforting and easy meal for any night.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened (5-7 minutes).
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in Liquids: Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Add Beans and Sausage: Stir in rinsed and drained cannellini beans and cooked sausage. Bring to a simmer.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to meld flavors.
- Add Tortellini: Stir in cheese tortellini. If using frozen, add directly to the soup. Cook according to package directions (3-5 minutes for fresh, 5-7 minutes for frozen) until tender.
- Stir in Spinach: Add chopped fresh spinach and stir until wilted (1-2 minutes).
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Spice it up: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes.
- Add more vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, or kale are great additions.
- Use different beans: Kidney beans or Great Northern beans work well.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Add cream: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamier soup.
- Make it ahead: Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add the tortellini just before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add the tortellini after thawing and reheating for the best texture.
- Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, garlic bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches.
- Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth to thin it out.
- Soup is too thin: Simmer uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Sausage is too greasy: Drain off excess fat after browning the sausage.
- Tortellini are mushy: Don’t overcook the tortellini. Cook them according to the package directions and check for doneness frequently.
- Soup is bland: Add more salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, or red pepper flakes to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
- Ingredient Substitutions: Ground beef, ground turkey, or chorizo for the Italian sausage. Vegetable broth or beef broth for the chicken broth. Kidney beans, Great Northern beans, or chickpeas for the cannellini beans. Meat tortellini, spinach tortellini, or any other type of filled pasta for the cheese tortellini. Kale, Swiss chard, or other leafy greens for the spinach. Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes.
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