This creamy, comforting soup brings together savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, sweet potatoes, and fresh spinach in a rich broth. Ideal for chilly evenings, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- Italian sausage (ground): 1 lb
- Sweet potatoes (peeled & diced): 2 medium (about 2 cups)
- Onion (chopped): 1 medium
- Garlic (minced): 3 cloves
- Carrots (chopped): 2 medium
- Chicken broth: 4 cups
- Heavy cream: 1 cup
- Tortellini (fresh or frozen): 12 oz
- Fresh spinach: 2 cups
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Italian seasoning: 1 tsp
- Salt & black pepper: to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes (¼ tsp for a hint of heat)
For Garnish:
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley
Optional Add-ins:
- Mushrooms (sliced): 1 cup
- Bay leaf: 1 (for extra depth of flavor)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up as it cooks. Brown for 5-7 minutes, then drain any excess fat. - Sauté the Vegetables 🥕🧅
Add onion, garlic, and carrots to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. If using, add mushrooms and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. - Add Sweet Potatoes & Broth 🍠
Stir in diced sweet potatoes and pour in the chicken broth. If using, add the bay leaf for extra flavor. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are tender. - Add Tortellini & Spinach
Add tortellini and Italian seasoning, cooking according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes) until tortellini float to the top. Stir in spinach and heavy cream, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the spinach to wilt and the soup to thicken slightly. - Season & Serve
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Remove bay leaf if added. Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Tips for Success:
- Control Consistency: For a thinner soup, add a bit more chicken broth or water.
- Make Ahead: Prepare in advance and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, reheating gently on the stove.
- Boost Nutrition: Add other greens like kale or extra veggies such as zucchini.
Recommendations:
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Freezes well, so make extra for easy reheats!
Nutrition (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
Enjoy this comforting Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup—perfect for warming up from the inside out!