Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of warmth as the leaves start to turn, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is just the ticket! This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it brings together the rich flavors of savory Italian sausage, cheesy tortellini, and wholesome seasonal veggies. It’s like a big hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings.

As the cooler weather settles in, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of this delicious soup wafting through your kitchen. Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, sharing stories and laughter over steaming bowls of this delightful dish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms both the belly and the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: You can whip up this cozy soup in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family-friendly: With cheesy tortellini and hearty sausage, everyone will love digging into this flavorful bowl of goodness.
• Nutritious ingredients: Packed with seasonal vegetables and tender greens, you can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner!
• Versatile options: Customize it with different veggies or proteins to suit your family’s taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a look at the simple and wholesome ingredients that come together to make this comforting soup. You probably have most of these items already in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Tortellini & Greens

• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini
• 2 cups baby spinach

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese

Variations

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or what your family loves.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some kale, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Change up the broth: Try vegetable broth for a vegetarian version that still packs a punch of flavor.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like your soup with a kick!

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 cook it until browned and cooked through. Breaking it up with a spoon ensures even cooking. Removing excess fat at this stage helps keep your soup from being too greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. This step brings out their natural sweetness and creates a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. We want those vegetables to become tender without losing their vibrant colors!

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Now it’s time to add in your cheese tortellini! Cook according to package instructions—usually around 5-7 minutes—until they’re tender yet still have that delightful bite. The tortellini soak up all those delicious flavors from the broth as they cook.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach

Add baby spinach into your pot and stir until it wilts down—this only takes 1-2 minutes! It adds freshness and a touch of color to your hearty soup. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; these little adjustments make all the difference.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle your Autumn Tortellini Soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese. This final touch adds richness that complements all those savory flavors beautifully. Now gather around your table, dig in, and enjoy every warm spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Making a delicious soup is all about the little details! Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Autumn Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables make a world of difference in flavor and texture. When possible, choose seasonal produce to enhance the autumn vibe of your soup.

• Adjust the spice level – If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild. This will add an extra layer of flavor and warmth to your dish.

• Make it ahead – Soups often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Feel free to prepare this soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days.

• Customize your veggies – While butternut squash is a fantastic choice, feel free to swap in other fall favorites like sweet potatoes or kale. This allows you to tailor the soup to your preferences and what you have on hand.

• Store leftovers properly – To keep your soup fresh, let it cool completely before storing in airtight containers. This helps maintain its flavor and prevents soggy tortellini!

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serving this warm and comforting soup is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present your Autumn Tortellini Soup beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs – A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the dish and add a pop of color.
• Toasted pumpkin seeds – These add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
• Lemon zest – A touch of lemon zest can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the broth and sausage.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread – Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all that delicious broth. It’s an easy way to enhance your meal experience!

• Mixed green salad – A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the hearty flavors of the soup. Include ingredients like apples or nuts for an autumn twist!

• Roasted Brussels sprouts – The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, making them an excellent side dish for this cozy soup.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need to create an inviting autumn meal that warms both heart and home! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is perfect for meal prep! Not only does it taste even better the next day, but it’s also easy to store and reheat. Here’s how to make sure you enjoy every delicious spoonful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible from bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, do so gently in a pot, adding a little extra broth or water if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this comforting soup.

Can I use different types of sausage in Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out Italian sausage for turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How long does Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s in an airtight container!

Can I add more vegetables to the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Yes! This soup is very versatile. Consider adding kale, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.

Is this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage kid-friendly?

Definitely! It’s packed with flavors that kids usually love, plus the tortellini makes it fun and appealing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage as delightful and comforting as I do! It’s a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall while enjoying a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy making this dish, share it with loved ones, and don’t forget to savor every bite!