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🥣 Creamy Tortellini Soup With Sausage, Spinach, And Parmesan

Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage, Spinach, and Parmesan

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As the temperatures drop and the chill of winter settles in, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage, Spinach, and Parmesan is the ultimate combination of indulgence and nourishment. This dish brings together the savory richness of Italian sausage, the freshness of spinach, and the delightful creaminess of Parmesan cheese. Bursting with robust flavors and textures, it’s the perfect meal to bring people together around the dinner table.

Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed

Vegetables

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Broth and Canned Additions

  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained

Finishing Touches

  • 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated tortellini
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

  1. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5–7 minutes.
  3. Remove any excess fat if necessary, leaving about 1 tablespoon of drippings in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
  2. Sauté the vegetables for 5–7 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Build the Base

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Stir well to combine.
  2. Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Simmer for Flavor

  1. Reduce the heat to low and allow the soup to simmer for 15 minutes. This will help meld all the flavors together and slightly thicken the base.

Step 5: Cook the Tortellini

  1. Add the refrigerated tortellini to the pot, following the package instructions for cooking time (usually around 5–7 minutes).
  2. Stir occasionally to ensure the tortellini cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Cheese

  1. Stir in the chopped spinach and allow it to wilt, about 1–2 minutes.
  2. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese into the soup and stir until fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 7: Season and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a beautiful finish.
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Helpful Tips

Perfecting the Creaminess

  • To make the soup extra creamy, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding them to the pot.

Customization Ideas

  • Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • Use kale instead of spinach for a more robust green that holds up well in soups.
  • Substitute cheese tortellini with spinach or mushroom tortellini for added variety.

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, dried tortellini works well, but it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust according to the package instructions and monitor the texture to avoid overcooking.

2. Is this soup freezer-friendly?

While the soup can be frozen, tortellini may become mushy when thawed and reheated. If you plan to freeze it, omit the tortellini and add freshly cooked tortellini when reheating.

3. What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a fresh green salad make excellent accompaniments.

4. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the sausage and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add more beans or vegetables like zucchini for extra protein and texture.

5. How do I prevent the soup from becoming too salty?

Be mindful of the salt content in your sausage, broth, and canned goods. Taste as you go, and adjust seasonings sparingly.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage, Spinach, and Parmesan is an all-in-one comfort dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner. Packed with hearty ingredients and bursting with flavor, it’s a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its creamy texture, tender tortellini, and rich sausage flavor, this soup will warm your heart and soul with every bite. Prepare a big pot and savor the joy of comfort food done right!

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