There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to comfort the soul, especially when it’s bursting with flavors like our homemade Tortellini Soup. This delightful dish combines the richness of Italian sausage, the freshness of vegetables, and the heartiness of cheese tortellini to create a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or looking to impress guests with your culinary skills, this recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients:
- Italian Sausage (sweet or mild)
- Vegetables (onion, garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, arugula or spinach)
- Seasonings (dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, red pepper flakes, fresh thyme, fresh basil)
- Broth (low-sodium beef broth, vegetable broth, or low-sodium chicken broth)
- Tomato paste
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini (or frozen/dried, as a substitute)
- Parmesan cheese
How to Make Tortellini Soup:
- Brown the Italian Sausage in a Dutch Oven or stockpot over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and cook until the sausage is almost entirely browned and the onion has softened.
- Reduce heat to low and add garlic, basil, oregano, parsley, thyme, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add more olive oil if needed.
- Whisk tomato paste with a bit of beef broth to thin it out. Add the vegetable broth, remaining beef broth, fire-roasted tomatoes, and thinned-out tomato paste.
- Increase heat to medium and bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add the cheese tortellini and let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the tortellini are cooked to your desired tenderness.
- Remove from heat and stir in arugula.
- Salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle each bowl with 1-2 tablespoons of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh thyme or basil if desired.
Why This Recipe Is Great:
What sets this Tortellini Soup apart is its depth of flavor. By browning the Italian sausage before adding the other ingredients, you create a rich base that perfectly complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and the earthiness of the herbs. The addition of cheese tortellini adds a creamy texture and a burst of cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s a well-rounded dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and warmed from the inside out.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need:
To make this Tortellini Soup, you’ll need the following kitchen equipment:
- Dutch oven or stockpot
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
How to Store Leftovers:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a pot and gently warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Recipe Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
- If you don’t have arugula or spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes.
- Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- To make the soup even heartier, add some cooked diced potatoes or white beans along with the tortellini.
Food and Drink Pairings:
This Tortellini Soup pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad and a crusty baguette for a complete meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
FAQs:
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently on the stove.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated? Yes, you can substitute dried tortellini for refrigerated. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, as the cooking time may vary.
Is there a low-sodium option for this recipe? Yes, you can use low-sodium broth and tomato paste to reduce the sodium content of the soup.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, our Tortellini Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. So why not give it a try?