Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Why Make This Recipe

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. This soup combines rich flavors from Italian sausage and fresh vegetables, creating a hearty meal that is both comforting and delicious. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the addition of cheese tortellini makes it extra satisfying!

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Ingredients

• 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

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if necessary.

2. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and butternut squash to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

4. Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender.

5. Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serve the soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can accompany it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal. This soup is great for a hearty lunch or dinner, and it’s sure to please family and friends alike.

How to Store Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

To store, let the soup cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Make sure to leave space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more or less chicken broth according to your preference.
• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the vegetables.

Variation

You can easily tailor this soup to your liking. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead. You can also swap the cheese tortellini for a different type of pasta, such as ravioli or even gluten-free pasta.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add them to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking and follow the package instructions.

2. Is this soup great for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep.

3. Can I reheat the soup?
Yes, you can reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave. Just be sure to stir well and heat until it’s warmed through. If it thickens in the fridge, you can add a little broth to loosen it up.