Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

If you’re looking for a warm hug in a bowl, then this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is just what you need! This delightful soup combines savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant seasonal vegetables. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want to do is cozy up with something comforting. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this soup never fails to bring smiles around the table.

What I love most about this recipe is how effortlessly it comes together. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it an ideal choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those nights when time is tight.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy tortellini and hearty flavors of the sausage.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for busy days.
• Seasonal Goodness: Packed with autumn vegetables, it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of the season.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of savory sausage and creamy tortellini creates a comforting dish that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious soup! You likely have many of these items already in your pantry or fridge.

For the Soup

• 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more greens: Toss in kale or Swiss chard instead of baby spinach for extra nutrients.
• Change the veggies: Add other seasonal vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or bell peppers for added flavor.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end for a rich and creamy texture.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Breaking it up with a spoon helps ensure every bite is flavorful. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to remove some before moving on.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté these veggies for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. This step is crucial as it brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your soup.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that all vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add Tortellini

Now it’s time to add your cheese tortellini! Cook according to package instructions—this usually takes around 5-7 minutes—until they’re tender. Their cheesy goodness will elevate your soup into something truly special!

Step 5: Stir in Spinach

Once your tortellini are ready, stir in the baby spinach. Cook just until wilted—about 1-2 minutes. This adds vibrant color and freshness while providing essential nutrients. Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and pepper to taste!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Ladle your comforting Autumn Tortellini Soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy this hearty bowl of warmth with loved ones as you bask in the cozy flavors of autumn!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Creating the perfect Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Brown the sausage well: Taking the time to brown the sausage adds a depth of flavor that infuses the entire soup, making it richer and more savory.
• Use fresh vegetables: Fresh carrots and butternut squash not only taste better but also provide more nutrients, enhancing both the health benefits and the overall flavor profile of the soup.
• Don’t skip seasoning: Adding salt, pepper, and dried thyme at various stages of cooking helps layer flavors, ensuring that every spoonful is deliciously seasoned.
• Adjust broth for consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly or let it simmer longer. This allows the flavors to concentrate and creates a heartier dish.
• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving!

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serving your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Cracked black pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of sophistication.
• Lemon zest: A small amount of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors beautifully, offering a lovely contrast to the richness of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of soup. Its buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory broth.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing balance to the hearty soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots complement the autumn theme while adding additional nutrients to your meal.
• Cheesy polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese makes for a comforting side that pairs beautifully with soups, enhancing their texture and flavor.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage will be an inviting centerpiece for any fall gathering! Enjoy every warm bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it for those busy weeknights when you need a comforting meal in a hurry.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing instead.

Freezing

• Freeze the soup in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without the tortellini, as they may become mushy upon reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using the microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this warm and hearty soup.

Can I make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or leave it out entirely. You can also add extra vegetables or beans for added protein.

How can I enhance the flavor of my Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end of cooking, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. A dash of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick!

What other vegetables can I use in my Autumn Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to get creative! Kale, zucchini, or even mushrooms would work wonderfully in this recipe for added texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage as I was to share it with you! This dish embodies the flavors of fall and is sure to warm your heart and home. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—it’s perfect for cozy evenings together. Happy cooking!