Autumn Soup — Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach

Adam

Autumn Soup — Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of homemade soup. This Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach combines hearty flavors, creamy broth, and tender cheese tortellini — creating the perfect dish to cozy up with on chilly days. Unlike heavy stews, this soup is light yet filling, with savory beef sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant spinach that adds freshness and color. Every spoonful bursts with autumn comfort and balanced flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup will fill your home with irresistible aromas and your bowl with pure happiness.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 30

Total Time 40

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

🥩 Protein

1 lb beef sausage casing removed (use ground chicken or turkey if preferred)

🍅 Vegetables

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow onion diced
3 garlic cloves minced
1 carrot peeled and diced
1 celery stalk chopped
3 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped

🍲 Soup Base

4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 cup water
1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper to taste

🧀 Pasta

9 oz cheese tortellini fresh or frozen

🥛 Finishing Touch

½ cup heavy cream or milk optional for creamier texture
Fresh parsley or parmesan cheese for garnish

Equipment

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle
Mixing bowl (optional)
Tongs or slotted spoon

Method

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add beef sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and slightly crispy. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until they soften and release aroma. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Build the Broth Base

Pour in the chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Add Italian seasoning, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer the Flavors

Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.

Step 5: Add Tortellini

Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 5–7 minutes for fresh or 10 minutes for frozen). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Add Spinach

Once the tortellini is cooked, add spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until just wilted.

Step 7: Make It Creamy (Optional)

For a creamier soup, lower the heat and stir in ½ cup heavy cream or milk. Do not boil after adding dairy — gentle heat keeps the soup silky.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls, top with fresh parsley or parmesan cheese, and serve warm with crusty bread or garlic toast.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Cool completely, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat: Warm over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.

🥄 Variations

Chicken Version: Substitute sausage with ground chicken or grilled chicken strips.

Vegetarian Option: Skip sausage and use white beans or chickpeas for protein.

Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon chili flakes or hot paprika.

Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or kale.

Dairy-Free: Omit the cream and use extra broth instead.

Creamier Base: Stir in cream cheese or Greek yogurt for added richness.

❓ 10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

2. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with rice pasta.

3. Can I use turkey sausage?
Absolutely — turkey sausage works beautifully and is leaner.

4. What if I don’t have spinach?
Use kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green.

5. Can I use vegetable broth?
Yes, it keeps the soup lighter and perfect for vegetarians.

6. How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or stir in a tablespoon of parmesan cheese.

7. Can I make it ahead?
Yes — prepare up to Step 6, then add tortellini and spinach when reheating.

8. Can I add potatoes?
You can! Dice small gold potatoes and simmer until tender before adding tortellini.

9. How long does it last in the fridge?
About 4 days when stored properly.

10. What can I serve with it?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a crisp green salad are perfect sides.

🏁 Conclusion

This Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is the very definition of comfort in a bowl — hearty, flavorful, and soul-warming. The savory sausage, tender pasta, and vibrant spinach create a balanced and nourishing dish that feels like a hug from the inside out.

It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Once you taste how rich and satisfying it is, this soup will become your go-to comfort meal for the season.

Grab your spoon, snuggle up, and savor the cozy flavors of autumn.