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A comforting bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup is displayed as the featured image for this delicious recipe.

Easy Sausage Tortellini Soup

This easy sausage tortellini soup is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal. It features browned Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a rich tomato broth simmered with aromatic vegetables and herbs. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of freshness to this satisfying soup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage sweet or spicy, or a mix
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup tomato paste
  • 1 Parmesan cheese rind optional
  • 9 ounces cheese tortellini fresh or frozen
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream optional
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Spoon
  • knife
  • cutting board
  • Garlic mincer
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons

Method
 

  1. Remove sausage from casings, if applicable. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until no longer pink and slightly browned. Remove sausage from the pot and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
  2. Add olive oil to the pot (if needed) and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the tomato paste to caramelize slightly. This step deepens the flavor.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the Parmesan rind (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still firm to the bite.
  7. Remove the Parmesan rind (if used). Stir in the heavy cream (if using) for extra richness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables such as zucchini or spinach. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth.