SautƩ the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. SautƩ for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes), until the pasta is tender and cooked through.
Make It Creamy:
Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the soup to thicken slightly.
Add Greens (Optional):
If you’re adding spinach or kale for extra greens, stir it in during the last 2 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt into the soup.
Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
This creamy tortellini soup is perfect on its own, but for a complete meal, you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds even more flavor!
Storing Leftovers:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the soup sits, the tortellini may absorb some of the liquid, so you may need to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating.
Freezing:
While this soup can be frozen, the cream may change texture when thawed. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. If the texture is slightly different after freezing, you can add a little more cream to restore its smoothness.
Variants of Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage:
Vegetarian Tortellini Soup:
For a meat-free version, use a plant-based sausage or simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers. You can also use a vegetable broth for the base.
Spicy Sausage Tortellini Soup:
If you enjoy a little extra heat, opt for spicy Italian sausage, or add more crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeƱo to the soup for a fiery kick.
Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup:
For a richer, tomato-flavored base, you can substitute the chicken broth with tomato soup or add more canned tomatoes and a dash of tomato paste to enhance the flavor.
Chicken Tortellini Soup:
Swap the sausage for cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter variation. This works especially well with rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken breast.
Dairy-Free Tortellini Soup:
To make this soup dairy-free, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative instead of heavy cream. For the cheese, try using a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute or simply skip the cheese entirely.
FAQ:
1. Can I use frozen tortellini for this soup?
Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well as fresh tortellini. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package, and add it directly into the simmering soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sautƩ the onions and garlic first, then add everything to the slow cooker, including the broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then stir in the cream and tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
3. Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can use any type of sausage you preferāchicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for a smoky, spicy flavor.
4. How do I prevent the soup from getting too thick?
If the soup becomes too thick as it sits, simply add more broth or a bit of milk to thin it out when reheating. Stir until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Is there a way to make this soup lower in calories?
To reduce the calories, you can use lean turkey sausage or chicken sausage and swap out the heavy cream for a lighter alternative, such as half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute. You can also use reduced-fat cheese to lower the fat content.
Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the epitome of comfort food, offering a rich, velvety broth filled with tender sausage and cheese-filled tortellini. With endless variations and the option to customize ingredients, this soup can easily fit into any dietary preference while still being an incredibly satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it to family, sharing it with friends, or enjoying it as a solo treat, this dish is sure to warm both your body and your heart.
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