Sausage Cheese Tortellini Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Sausage cheese tortellini soup: just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, comforting warmth, and a bowl brimming with deliciousness. Have you ever craved a meal that feels like a hug from the inside out? This soup is exactly that! It’s a symphony of savory Italian sausage, creamy cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich, flavorful broth that will tantalize your taste buds.

While the exact origins of this particular soup are a bit murky, it draws heavily on the traditions of Italian cuisine. Tortellini, those delightful ring-shaped pasta pockets, have a long and storied history in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. They are often filled with meat or cheese and served in broth or with a creamy sauce. Combining them with sausage, another staple of Italian cooking, creates a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

What makes sausage cheese tortellini soup so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The spicy kick of the sausage complements the mild, cheesy tortellini beautifully. The broth, often tomato-based or chicken-based, adds depth and richness. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This soup is relatively quick and easy to make, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. So, let’s get cooking and create a bowl of pure comfort!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!), casings removed
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 20 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Preparing the Sausage and Aromatics

Alright, let’s get started! First things first, we need to brown our sausage. This is where all that delicious flavor starts to build, so don’t rush this step.

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to crumble it well so you don’t have big chunks in your soup.
3. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pot with a slotted spoon and set it aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot – that’s flavor gold!
4. Now, add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. You want the onion to be translucent and slightly sweet.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be amazing at this point!

Building the Soup Base

Now that we have our flavorful base, it’s time to build the soup itself. This is where the tomatoes, broth, and spices come together to create a rich and comforting broth.

1. Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir well to incorporate everything.
3. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste!

Adding the Tortellini and Finishing Touches

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to add the tortellini and finish the soup with some creamy goodness and cheese.

1. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Add the cheese tortellini to the soup. If you’re using frozen tortellini, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender and floating. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. This will make the soup incredibly creamy and decadent.
5. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until it’s melted and gooey. Oh yeah, this is the good stuff!
6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Serving and Garnishing

Finally, it’s time to serve and enjoy your delicious Sausage Cheese Tortellini Soup! Don’t forget the garnishes – they add a pop of freshness and flavor.

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is perfect with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few tips and variations to make this soup your own:

• Spice it up: If you like a spicier soup, use hot Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, carrots, or celery. Add them along with the onions and garlic.
• Use different cheese: Instead of mozzarella, try using provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Slow cooker version: You can also make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortellini and heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Make ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together even more as it sits.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the tortellini may become a bit softer after freezing and thawing.
• Broth Boost: For an even richer broth, consider using bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. It adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat.
• Tomato Paste Power: Adding a tablespoon or two of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce can intensify the tomato flavor. Be sure to cook the tomato paste for a minute or two to remove the raw taste.
• Wine Time: For a more sophisticated flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of dry red or white wine after cooking the onions and garlic. Let the wine reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions:

This Sausage Cheese Tortellini Soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is always a welcome addition to any soup meal.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Grilled Cheese: A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing with tomato-based soups.
• Parmesan Crisps: For a fun and crunchy topping, make Parmesan crisps by baking grated Parmesan cheese on a baking sheet until golden brown.

Troubleshooting:

Here are a few common problems and solutions:

• Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
• Soup is too thin: Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) to thicken it.
• Soup is too bland: Add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of balsamic vinegar to brighten the flavors.
• Tortellini are overcooked: Be careful not to overcook the tortellini. Cook them according to the package directions and check them frequently.
• Soup is too acidic: Add a pinch of sugar or a dollop of sour cream to balance the acidity.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Sausage Cheese Tortellini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, easy, and utterly delicious meal. The combination of savory Italian sausage, creamy cheese tortellini, and a rich, flavorful broth is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and savor every single spoonful.

But what truly sets this soup apart is its versatility. While it’s fantastic as is, there are so many ways to customize it to your liking. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick. Want to boost the veggie content? Throw in some chopped spinach, kale, or even some diced zucchini during the last few minutes of cooking. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or heavy cream right before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the soup beautifully. And for a truly decadent experience, try topping it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Variations to Explore:

* Spicy Sausage: Swap out the sweet Italian sausage for spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
* Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese tortellini. Ricotta and spinach tortellini would be a delicious alternative.
* Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions, for a vegetarian version. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
* Creamy Tomato Base: For a creamier, tomato-based soup, use crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes and add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
* Slow Cooker Version: This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

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 meal, a comforting dish for a chilly day, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise, this sausage cheese tortellini soup will become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

I can’t wait to hear what you think! Please, give this recipe a try and share your experience with me. Let me know what variations you tried, what you loved, and what you would change. Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m always eager to learn from my readers. Happy cooking!

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