Name: Irresistible Tortellini Soup with Sausage in Minutes
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 9 ounce Dried Cheese Tortellini (Fresh tortellini can be used but will require an adjusted cooking time.); 1 pound Italian Sausage (Feel free to swap in ground turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free version.); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Butter or another cooking oil can be used as alternatives.); 1 medium Onion (Shallots or leeks can work nicely as substitutes.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder is a convenient alternative.); 14.5 ounce Crushed Tomato (Diced tomatoes can alter the texture slightly but will still be delicious.); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Adding extra crushed tomatoes works in a pinch.); 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning (You can use individual herbs like oregano and basil if needed.); 1 teaspoon Chili Flakes (Omit for a milder flavor or swap for fresh chopped chili.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Using low-sodium varieties can elevate your dish while keeping it healthier.); 4 cups Chicken Stock (Vegetable broth works as a great vegetarian alternative.); 1 cup Half & Half (Replace with whole milk for a lighter option or heavy cream for something richer.); 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan (Consider nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.); 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (For serving.)

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There’s nothing quite like the soothing warmth of a bowl of soup to chase away the chill on a crisp evening. When my week begins to feel hectic, I find solace in the familiar aroma wafting from the kitchen while preparing a Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup. This dish is my go-to comfort food, as it brings together the rich flavors of zesty sausage, velvety tortellini, and a luscious tomato broth in under 15 minutes thanks to my trusty Instant Pot.

What I love most about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a hearty weeknight dinner, this soup never disappoints. And the best part? You can whip it up with ease, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delicious bowlful of Italian goodness!

Why is Tortellini Soup With Sausage a Must-Try?

Comforting and Cozy: This soup wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly nights.
Quick to Prepare: Whip it up in under 15 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of zesty sausage and creamy tortellini creates an explosion of taste.
Versatile Options: Cook it in an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop—choose your favorite method!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Great for gatherings or family dinners, it’s sure to impress your guests.
This Creamy Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful way to bring everyone together around the table!

Tortellini Soup With Sausage Ingredients

For the Soup

Dried Cheese Tortellini – Adds a creamy and cheesy element that enhances this tortellini soup with sausage; fresh tortellini can be used but will require an adjusted cooking time.
Italian Sausage – Provides a savory flavor profile that’s hard to resist; feel free to swap in ground turkey or vegetarian sausage for a lighter or meat-free version.
Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing your aromatic base; butter or another cooking oil can be used as alternatives.
Onion – Contributes natural sweetness and depth to the flavor; shallots or leeks can work nicely as substitutes.
Garlic – Elevates the complexity of the soup’s flavors with its aromatic qualities; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder is a convenient alternative.
Crushed Tomato (14.5 oz) – Serves as the rich base of the broth; diced tomatoes can alter the texture slightly but will still be delicious.
Tomato Paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor for a heartier broth; no direct substitute exists, but adding extra crushed tomatoes works in a pinch.
Italian Seasoning – This herby blend brings an authentic Italian taste; you can use individual herbs like oregano and basil if needed.
Chili Flakes – Introduces a touch of heat; omit for a milder flavor or swap for fresh chopped chili if desired.
Salt – Season to taste for the best results; using low-sodium varieties can elevate your dish while keeping it healthier.
Chicken Stock – Provides a rich, flavorful base; vegetable broth works as a great vegetarian alternative.
Half & Half – Adds a creamy finish to the soup; for a lighter option, replace with whole milk or for something richer use heavy cream.
Grated Parmesan and Fresh Parsley (for serving) – Boosts flavor and visual appeal; consider nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

How to Make Tortellini Soup With Sausage

Sauté Aromatics: Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Heat the olive oil, then add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Sausage: Crumble the Italian sausage into the pot and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s browned but not fully cooked through.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, chili flakes, salt, and 2 cups of chicken stock. Mix well, scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pot to release those beautiful flavors.
Incorporate Tortellini: Pour in the dried cheese tortellini, ensuring even distribution. Switch the Instant Pot to Manual mode and set it for 4 minutes on high pressure.
Release Pressure: Once cooking is complete, allow the natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then switch to a manual release to let out any remaining steam.
Finish the Soup: Switch back to sauté mode. Add the remaining chicken stock and half & half, stirring gently to combine. Heat for another 30 seconds until warmed through.
Serve: Spoon the soup into bowls while hot, garnishing each with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley for a pop of flavor and color.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of extra chili flakes for those who enjoy a bit more heat.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Tortellini Soup With Sausage are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weeknights! You can chop the onion and garlic, as well as crumble the Italian sausage, up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pre-measure the crushed tomatoes, chicken stock, and spices so they’re ready to go when you are. To maintain quality, avoid adding the tortellini until just before cooking; it can absorb too much broth if left too long. When you’re ready to serve, simply follow the cooking instructions as usual, and you’ll enjoy a freshly made, comforting soup with minimal effort!

Expert Tips for Tortellini Soup With Sausage

Follow the Order: Always sauté aromatics before adding other ingredients. This step enhances the flavors and prevents them from becoming bitter.
Stock Gradually: Add the chicken stock in stages to avoid overflow during pressure release. It ensures a nice consistency in your tortellini soup with sausage.
Tortellini Timing: Remember that the tortellini will absorb liquid as the soup sits. Adjust the thickness by adding a bit more stock if needed.
Sauté for Slow Cooker: If using a slow cooker, sauté the onion and garlic on the stovetop first. This adds depth to the flavors.
Customize Your Heat: Adjust chili flakes according to your taste. Omit them for a milder soup, or add fresh chilies for a vibrant kick.

What to Serve with Tortellini Soup With Sausage?

Nothing complements a cozy bowl of soup like a few delightful side dishes to create a heartwarming meal experience.

Crusty Garlic Bread: The crispy texture and buttery garlic flavor are perfect for dipping into the rich broth while enjoying each bite.
Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creamy soup beautifully.
Grilled Vegetables: Smoky, charred veggies provide a colorful contrast and additional nutrients, enhancing the overall meal experience.
Savory Pesto Flatbreads: The herbaceous notes of pesto spread on warm flatbreads make for an indulgent side, perfect for sopping up the delicious soup.
Cheesy Breadsticks: These ooey-gooey delights are not just fun to eat; they also complement the rich flavors of the soup beautifully.
Italian Wine: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Grigio can enhance the flavors of your tortellini soup while making your dinner feel extra special.
Tiramisu: Finish your meal with this classic Italian dessert. Its creamy, coffee-flavored layers are a sweet way to round out your dining experience.

Each of these pairings brings their unique charm to the table, making your meal even more enjoyable!

Tortellini Soup With Sausage Variations

Feel free to make this cozy soup your own by trying out these delightful variations!

Veggie Boost: Add chopped kale or fresh spinach for extra nutrition and vibrant color. These greens not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the soup’s heartiness.
Protein Swap: Substitute Italian sausage with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. This change allows the dish to remain flavorful without all the richness.
Frozen Convenience: Use frozen tortellini straight from the freezer to save time. Cook for an additional 4-6 minutes and enjoy a satisfying bowl with minimal effort.
Creaminess Level: Swap half & half for heavy cream if you crave extra richness. This variation yields a decadent and luxurious texture, perfect for indulgent evenings.
Herb Explosion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fresh flavor boost. Toss them in right before serving to infuse the soup with aromatic goodness.
Heat It Up: Substitute chili flakes with diced fresh jalapeños for a spicy kick. Adjust amount according to your tolerance for heat and savor the fiery twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal without compromising on taste.
Alternative Broth: Swap chicken stock for a rich vegetable broth to create a vegetarian version. This swap maintains flavor while accommodating different dietary needs.

Each of these variations invites you to explore a new side of this beloved tortellini soup with sausage! Enjoy the journey through flavors that warm the heart.

Storage Tips for Tortellini Soup With Sausage

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain the best texture, consider refrigerating tortellini separately from the broth.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze the soup with tortellini, as they can become mushy. Instead, freeze the broth for up to 3 months and add fresh tortellini when reheating.

Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If stored separately, cook tortellini separately and combine once heated through. Enjoy your delicious tortellini soup with sausage!

Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe FAQs

What type of tortellini is best for this soup?
I recommend using dried cheese tortellini for its creamy and cheesy texture. If you prefer fresh tortellini, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly—cut it down to about 2 minutes in the Instant Pot.

How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the texture of the tortellini intact, it’s best to refrigerate them separately from the broth. This way, both components stay fresh and enjoyable.

Can I freeze Tortellini Soup With Sausage?
Absolutely! However, it’s best not to freeze the soup with tortellini, as they may become mushy. Instead, freeze the broth for up to 3 months, and then cook fresh tortellini when you’re ready to enjoy your soup again. To freeze, let the broth cool completely, pour it into a freezer-safe container, and label it with the date.

How can I adjust for dietary restrictions?
For a lighter or meat-free option, swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or a vegetarian sausage. If you have a dairy allergy, you can replace the half & half with plant-based creamy alternatives or simply use extra chicken stock.

What if my soup is too thick?
If your tortellini soup with sausage turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Just stir in additional chicken stock or water gradually until it reaches your desired consistency. Remember, the tortellini will absorb some broth as it sits, so it’s always better to add liquid slowly.

What are some common issues while making this soup?
Sometimes, if you add all the chicken stock at once, you might encounter overflow during pressure release. Always add the stock in stages to keep it manageable. Also, if you notice the tortellini is clumping together, give them a gentle stir during cooking for even seasoning and cooking.