Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup Cozy and Hearty Meal

As autumn settles in, there’s nothing better than a warm bowl of soup to soothe your soul. My Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup is cozy, hearty, and packed with flavor. Made with Italian sausage, fresh veggies, and rich broth, it’s perfect for chilly nights. Plus, it’s simple to make! Gather your ingredients, and let’s create a delicious meal that brings comfort to your table. You won’t want to miss this recipe!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 oz Italian sausage

– 1 medium onion

– 2 cloves garlic

– 3 medium carrots

– 2 celery stalks

The main ingredients create a strong base for your soup. Italian sausage gives it a rich flavor. You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your taste. The onion adds sweetness, while garlic brings a nice aroma. Carrots and celery provide crunch and nutrition.

Broth and Tortellini

– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

– 1 (12 oz) package of cheese tortellini

– 1 cup kale or spinach

– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

The broth is key to the soup’s heartiness. It can be vegetable or chicken, depending on your choice. Cheese tortellini adds a creamy texture. Fresh greens like kale or spinach boost the soup’s health benefits. Diced tomatoes bring in acidity and sweetness.

Seasoning and Garnish

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– Salt and pepper

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning brings all the flavors together. Italian seasoning adds a warm blend of herbs. Don’t forget to adjust salt and pepper to your taste. Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables. Fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese make great garnishes, adding fresh flavors and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Base

– Start by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

– Add 1 finely diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be soft and clear.

– Next, add 2 minced cloves of garlic, 3 thinly sliced carrots, and 2 thinly sliced celery stalks.

– Cook these veggies for 5 minutes. Stir them often until they become tender.

Cooking the Sausage

– Crumble 8 ounces of Italian sausage into the pot. You can choose mild or spicy sausage based on your taste.

– Stir the sausage often and cook for about 6-8 minutes. Make sure it is browned and fully cooked.

Combining Ingredients

– Pour in 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth.

– Add 1 can of diced tomatoes, undrained, along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.

– Stir everything well and bring the mix to a gentle boil.

– Once boiling, add 1 package of cheese tortellini. Cook it based on the package instructions, which usually takes 3-5 minutes. The tortellini should float when done.

Final Touches

– Fold in 1 cup of coarsely chopped kale. You can also use spinach if you prefer.

– Cook for an extra 2 minutes, just until the greens are wilted and soft.

– Season the soup with salt and pepper to your liking.

– Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Tips & Tricks

Selecting the Best Ingredients

Choosing the right sausage is key. You can pick mild sausage for a gentle taste or spicy sausage for a kick. If you love heat, go for spicy. If you prefer a smooth flavor, stick with mild.

Using fresh ingredients can boost flavor. Fresh vegetables like carrots and celery make your soup bright and tasty. Canned tomatoes are handy, but fresh ones can add a nice touch.

Enhancing Flavor

Taste-testing is fun! As you cook, try your soup. If it needs more flavor, add a pinch of salt or pepper. You can also mix in more Italian seasoning.

Homemade broth brings warmth. If you have time, make your own broth. It adds depth to your soup. Store-bought broth is fine too, especially if you’re in a hurry. Just look for low-sodium options to control the saltiness.

Presentation Ideas

Serving your soup well makes it special. Use wide, shallow bowls to show off the colors. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a nice green touch.

Don’t forget about the cheese! A good amount of grated Parmesan on top makes your soup shine. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping. It makes the meal feel cozy and complete.

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

For those needing gluten-free options, look for gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer tasty alternatives made from rice or corn flour. They cook similarly to regular tortellini. This swap keeps your soup hearty without the gluten.

If you prefer a vegetarian dish, try using plant-based sausage. This choice adds great flavor and gives you the same texture as meat. Look for brands that use mushrooms or lentils. They blend well with the spices in the soup.

Seasonal Vegetable Additions

Autumn is a great time to add seasonal veg. Consider adding diced butternut squash or sweet potatoes for extra sweetness. You can also use parsnips for a unique twist. These vegetables bring warmth and depth to your soup.

If kale isn’t your favorite, you can swap it out for spinach or Swiss chard. Both greens wilt nicely and add nutrients. You can also try adding roasted Brussels sprouts. They add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

Flavor Enhancements

To spice things up, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. This brings heat and excitement to each spoonful. Adjust the amount based on your taste. Start with a little and increase as needed.

You can also enhance the flavor by changing the cheese. Instead of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. A sprinkle of feta can add a salty tang, too. Each option changes the soup’s profile and makes it fun to explore.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and safe to eat. Place it in the fridge within two hours of cooking. The soup will last for about three to four days.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze the soup, let it cool completely first. Pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. The soup can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat until hot.

Best Practices for Meal Prep

You can prepare ingredients in advance to save time. Chop your vegetables and store them in the fridge. You can also cook the sausage ahead and keep it in an airtight container. For batch cooking, double the recipe and freeze half. This way, you have a cozy meal ready for later.

FAQs

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

This soup stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Keep it in an airtight container to help it last longer. Before eating, check for any off smells or changes in texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time! Prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I substitute for tortellini?

If you don’t have tortellini, you can use other pasta. Small shapes like elbow macaroni or even gnocchi work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Is it possible to use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great option. They save time and add great flavor. Just toss them into the pot with the broth and cook until they are tender.

This blog post covered making a hearty tortellini soup. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to select the best items and enhance flavor. We also explored variations to meet dietary needs and boost taste.

In the end, this soup offers warmth and comfort in every bowl. It’s a flexible recipe that invites creativity, so enjoy making it your own. Now, gather your ingredients and savor the joy of cookin