There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of sausage tortellini soup to chase away the chill on a cold day. This hearty dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich tomato-infused broth that’s brimming with flavor. It’s comfort food at its finest—perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
I discovered this recipe when experimenting with ways to use tortellini in something other than a pasta bake. Now, it’s a staple in our household, loved for its simplicity and big, bold flavors. Let’s dive into why you’ll fall in love with this dish too.
Why You'll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup
Get ready to savor a bowl of soup that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons.
First, it’s quick and effortless to prepare. From start to finish, this soup takes just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on hectic days when you want a homemade meal without the hassle.
Second, the flavors are absolutely irresistible. The savory kick of the Italian sausage pairs perfectly with the cheesy tortellini and the herby, tomato-based broth. It’s a combination that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This soup is also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer spicy sausage for a bit of heat or mild sausage for a kid-friendly version, you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste.
Finally, it’s a one-pot wonder. Minimal dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans—a win-win for any home cook.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this sausage tortellini soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the perfect blend of taste and texture.
Italian sausage is the star of the show. For a spicier soup, go with hot sausage, but mild works just as well if you’re serving a younger crowd. Remove the casings if using sausage links, or opt for ground sausage for convenience.
Cheese tortellini adds a delightful richness to the dish. You can use fresh, frozen, or even dried tortellini—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Crushed tomatoes form the base of the broth, providing a robust tomato flavor. I recommend using a good-quality brand for the best results.
Chicken broth balances the acidity of the tomatoes and gives the soup a hearty depth. Low-sodium broth is a great option if you’re watching your salt intake.
Spinach brings a pop of color and a boost of nutrients. Fresh baby spinach wilts beautifully in the hot broth, but frozen spinach works in a pinch.
You’ll also need staples like garlic, onions, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors. A pinch of red pepper flakes can be added for a touch of heat, but this is optional.
How To Make This Sausage Tortellini Soup

Crafting this soup is as easy as it is enjoyable. With just a few steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to serve.
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a large soup pot over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside.
In the same pot, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in the rendered fat from the sausage. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Next, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Return the cooked sausage to the pot, along with the tortellini. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the tortellini cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes (or according to package instructions).
Just before serving, stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly in the hot soup, adding a fresh, vibrant touch. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
Storage Options
Leftovers of this sausage tortellini soup are just as delicious as the first bowl, making it perfect for meal prep.
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth over time, so you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.
For longer storage, freeze the soup without the tortellini. Tortellini doesn’t freeze well once cooked, as it tends to become mushy. Simply cook fresh tortellini and add it to the reheated soup when ready to serve. The broth and sausage mixture can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to make it your own with a few tweaks.
- Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Add an extra pinch of Italian seasoning to boost the flavor.
- Replace the spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green. Be sure to remove the stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Use gluten-free tortellini if you need a gluten-free option. Many grocery stores now carry gluten-free varieties.
- Add diced zucchini or carrots for extra vegetables. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic for a seamless addition.
- For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
Experiment with different combinations to discover your favorite variation of this comforting soup. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this sausage tortellini soup is sure to become a household favorite.
PrintThe Best Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Indulge in the best sausage tortellini soup recipe packed with savory sausage, cheese tortellini, and fresh veggies. Perfect for a comforting dinner!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add sausage back into the pot and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese tortellini and cook until tender (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute spinach with kale or other leafy greens.
- For a thicker consistency, add a cornstarch slurry.
- Adjust seasoning based on preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 980mg
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