Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness that warms your heart and soul, then this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is just what you need! As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, this soup becomes my go-to recipe. It’s packed with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and seasonal veggies, all simmered together in a rich broth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this soup brings everyone together around the table.

This recipe not only fills your kitchen with delightful aromas but also offers a delicious way to embrace the flavors of fall. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 45 minutes, perfect for weeknight dinners!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love cheesy tortellini and savory sausage; it’s sure to please even picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal throughout the week.
• Seasonal Flavors: Celebrate autumn with fresh ingredients like butternut squash and spinach that add warmth and nutrition.
• Comfort in a Bowl: Each spoonful is like a warm hug on a chilly evening; pure comfort food at its best!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! The beauty of this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage lies in its simple, wholesome components that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this cozy dish:

For the Soup

• 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

Variations

One of the best parts about cooking is making recipes your own! Here are some fun variations you can try with this soup:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
• Add more greens: Toss in kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for added nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace sausage with hearty mushrooms and vegetable broth for a delightful meatless version.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your soup.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to our soup. Once it’s browned and cooked through, feel free to remove any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss in your diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash. Sauté these veggies for about five minutes until they start to soften. This process helps release their natural sweetness, which will enhance your soup’s overall flavor.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Now it’s time to pour in that wonderful chicken broth along with dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until all those lovely vegetables are tender. This allows all those delicious flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add your cheese tortellini to the pot next. Cook according to package instructions—usually about 5-7 minutes—until they are tender. The tortellini will soak up all that delicious broth while adding their creamy texture.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach

At last, stir in your baby spinach and let it cook for just 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste; don’t skip this step as it really brings out all those lovely flavors!

Step 6: Serve Up!

Ladle your warm soup into bowls and finish each serving with grated Parmesan cheese on top. Watching that cheese melt into the hot soup is one of life’s simple pleasures—enjoy every spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Creating the perfect Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a joyful experience, and a few extra tips can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also provide vibrant colors that make your soup visually appealing.
• Customize your sausage – Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage if you prefer a lighter option. This keeps the dish healthy without sacrificing flavor.
• Add more veggies – For an even heartier soup, consider adding other seasonal vegetables like kale, sweet potatoes, or zucchini. They add great texture and nutrition.
• Let it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for a little longer after adding the tortellini helps meld the flavors together beautifully. Just be mindful not to overcook the pasta!
• Make it in advance – This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for a quick meal later on.

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serving your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is all about presentation and pairing. Here are some delightful ideas to make your meal special.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped herbs add a burst of freshness and color, enhancing both the look and taste of your soup.
• Drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving adds richness and depth of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, providing texture and heartiness.
• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots provide a lovely side dish that aligns beautifully with the autumn theme.
• Cheesy garlic knots: These fluffy, cheesy bites are irresistible when served warm alongside your comforting soup. They’re perfect for sopping up every last drop!

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy a cozy bowl of Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage that warms both your heart and soul!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of goodness any day of the week. Here’s how to best store and preserve this delightful dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the soup cool completely and pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container for expansion during freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up as it warms.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup.

Can I use a different kind of sausage in my Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative. Each will bring its unique flavor while keeping the heartiness of the soup intact.

How can I make my Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the sausage with a meat alternative like lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables for extra nutrition!

What are some good sides to serve with Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

A fresh green salad or crusty bread makes a great pairing! You could also serve it with garlic bread for a cozy dinner experience.

How long does it take to prepare Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

The total time for this recipe is approximately 45 minutes, which includes both preparation and cooking time. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough for entertaining!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage becomes a lovely addition to your fall favorites! It’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor—a true comfort dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy making it as much as you will enjoy eating it! Happy cooking!