Autumn tortellini soup sausage has become my absolute favorite way to welcome the crisp air and cozy evenings. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of simmering Italian sausage, savory broth, and sweet vegetables filled my kitchen, instantly making it feel like home. This comforting bowl is packed with hearty fall flavors, and it’s surprisingly simple to whip up, making it the perfect easy autumn tortellini sausage soup for any busy weeknight. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
This soup is a hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and warming fall vegetables creates a truly delicious experience.
- Quick Prep: You can have this on the table in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Healthy & Hearty: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, it’s a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel heavy.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, affordable ingredients that deliver maximum taste without breaking the bank.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike adore the cheesy tortellini and savory broth.
- Perfect for Fall: The sausage and tortellini soup fall flavors are exactly what you crave this season.
- Satisfying Meal: This hearty tortellini soup with sausage autumn provides a complete, comforting meal.
Ingredients for Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. This recipe uses simple, wholesome components to create that perfect fall taste. For those looking for a slightly lighter option, consider using 1 lb chicken sausage, casings removed, which works wonderfully in this chicken sausage tortellini soup autumn.
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed – provides a savory, slightly spicy base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced – about 1 cup, adds sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian flavor
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced – for a touch of sweetness and color
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed – brings a creamy texture and seasonal sweetness
- 6 cups chicken broth – forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini – the star pasta pockets, cook according to package directions
- 2 cups baby spinach – wilts in quickly, adding freshness and nutrients
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – a classic herb that complements fall flavors
- Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance all the other flavors
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving – adds a salty, nutty finish
How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
This recipe is designed to be incredibly straightforward, making it a fantastic one-pot autumn tortellini sausage soup. You’ll be amazed at how quickly this comforting meal comes together, proving that a delicious, flavorful soup doesn’t need to take all day. This process ensures a quick autumn tortellini sausage soup experience.
- Step 1: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, carefully drain most of it off.
- Step 2: Add the 1 medium onion, diced, along with the 2 cloves garlic, minced, 2 carrots, peeled and sliced, and 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed, to the pot with the sausage. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and the onions become translucent. The kitchen will start to smell amazing!
- Step 3: Pour in the 6 cups chicken broth and stir in the 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Step 4: Once the vegetables are tender, add the 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini directly to the pot. Cook according to the package directions, which is usually about 5-7 minutes, until the tortellini are plump and tender. They’ll float to the top when they’re ready.
- Step 5: In the last couple of minutes of cooking, stir in the 2 cups baby spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts, which only takes about 1-2 minutes. This adds a wonderful burst of freshness and color.
- Step 6: Finally, season your Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and garnish generously with grated Parmesan cheese, for serving. Enjoy this delicious bowl of comfort!
Pro Tips for the Best Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
Elevate your soup game with these simple tricks for the ultimate flavor and texture.
- Using good quality Italian sausage makes a big difference in the overall taste of your autumn tortellini soup sausage.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini! They should be tender but still have a slight bite. Add them in the last few minutes.
- For an even richer broth, swap half the chicken broth for vegetable broth or even a splash of white wine.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end. Salt and pepper can bring out the best of the fall flavors.
What’s the secret to perfect Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage?
The real secret is using quality Italian sausage and not overcooking the tortellini. This ensures a savory depth and perfect pasta texture, making it a truly delightful creamy sausage tortellini soup fall favorite.
Can I make Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base (up to step 3) a day in advance. Cook the tortellini and add the spinach just before serving to prevent them from getting mushy. It’s still a wonderful hearty tortellini soup with sausage autumn meal even when prepped ahead.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage?
A common pitfall is overcooking the tortellini, making them mushy. Another mistake is not browning the sausage well enough, which impacts flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. For more information on cooking techniques, you can refer to resources on pasta cooking.
Best Ways to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
This delicious soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out your autumn feast. Imagine serving this as part of a delightful fall harvest tortellini soup sausage spread!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or artisan bread is perfect for dipping into the savory broth. I love using a sourdough or a seeded whole wheat.
- Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. Think mixed greens with a light lemon dressing.
- Garlic Bread: For an extra touch of indulgence, homemade garlic bread or cheesy garlic knots are always a hit.
Nutrition Facts for Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
This hearty soup offers a balanced meal with satisfying flavors. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving for this delicious autumn tortellini soup sausage:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more detailed nutritional information, consult a nutrition professional.
How to Store and Reheat Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
This comforting sausage tortellini soup seasonal recipe is fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a warm bowl whenever the craving strikes. Once the soup has cooled completely, ladle it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Reheating is simple! For refrigerated soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first. You can also reheat frozen portions directly on the stovetop, but be patient and use low heat to prevent the tortellini from breaking apart.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage
Can I use different kinds of sausage in this soup?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is classic, feel free to experiment. Spicy sausage adds a kick, while chicken sausage offers a leaner option for a lighter soup. The key is to ensure it’s flavorful, as the sausage is the backbone of this dish.
What vegetables are best for autumn tortellini soup sausage?
Butternut squash and carrots are fantastic for that signature fall flavor and sweetness. However, you can also add other seasonal favorites like diced sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even some chopped kale towards the end. This makes it a truly versatile best sausage tortellini soup for autumn.
How do I make the soup creamier?
For a richer, creamier texture, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, a spoonful of cream cheese can also add a lovely velvety smoothness to your autumn tortellini soup sausage.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. For a vegan version, use vegan sausage crumbles, vegetable broth, and ensure your tortellini are vegan (many store-bought ones contain egg). This adaptability makes it a great choice for many diets. You can find more information on vegan cooking at our site.
Variations of Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage You Can Try
This base recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. Whether you’re craving something spicy or packed with more greens, there’s a variation for you!
- Spicy Kick: For a truly vibrant bowl, opt for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and onions. This creates an amazing spicy sausage tortellini autumn soup that’s full of warmth.
- Extra Veggies: Boost the nutritional power by adding more vegetables. Sliced zucchini, chopped kale, or even some diced bell peppers can be added with the carrots and squash for a robust vegetable tortellini soup with sausage fall delight.
- Lighter Option: Swap the traditional Italian sausage for lean ground turkey or chicken sausage. This makes for a delicious, lighter take on the classic, perfect for those who prefer a less rich meal.
- Creamy Indulgence: Stir in a half cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last five minutes of cooking for an extra decadent and creamy soup experience.
Autumn Tortellini Soup Sausage: 1 Amazing Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A warm and comforting autumn soup featuring Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and healthy vegetables. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers hearty, seasonal flavors.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if necessary.
- Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and butternut squash to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in chicken broth and add dried thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Add cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes, until tortellini are tender.
- Stir in baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
- Add other vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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