Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the leaves begin to crunch underfoot and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of comfort to celebrate the beauty of fall. My Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage has quickly become a cherished favorite in our home, melding savory Italian sausage with tender, cheesy tortellini and a host of seasonal vegetables. Not only is this recipe a delightful answer to chilly evenings, but it also comes together in a flash, making it perfect for those cozy family dinners or unexpected gatherings. With each spoonful, you’ll savor a hearty medley that wraps you in warmth—just like a soft blanket on a brisk autumn day. Want to know what secret ingredient elevates this soup to the next level? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is This Tortellini Soup a Fall Favorite? Hearty Comfort: Enjoy the ultimate cozy dish that perfectly combines Italian sausage, creamy tortellini, and seasonal vegetables—ideal for chilly nights. Quick & Easy: Prepare a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings. Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap ingredients; try turkey sausage or add your favorite veggies for a personalized touch. Family Approved: Delight your loved ones with a flavor-packed soup that appeals to both kids and adults, making dinnertime a joy. For a delightful side, serve with some crispy Crusty Bread to soak up every bit of this deliciousness! Tortellini Soup with Sausage Ingredients For the Soup Base • Italian Sausage – Provides a robust and savory flavor; aim for good quality for the best taste. Substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option. • Olive Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables and enhancing flavor; can be substituted with vegetable oil. • Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the base of the soup; use shallots for a milder flavor. • Garlic – Enhances flavor with aromatic notes; fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch. • Carrots – Contributes sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips if desired. • Butternut Squash – Adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness; sweet potatoes can be used as an alternative. • Chicken Broth – Provides a rich base flavor; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. For the Pasta & Greens • Cheese Tortellini – Adds heartiness; choose a fresh or frozen option. Gluten-free tortellini can be a suitable alternative. • Baby Spinach – Offers freshness and color; kale or Swiss chard can be substituted. For Seasoning & Topping • Dried Thyme – Provides herbal flavor; fresh thyme can be used, increasing the quantity slightly. • Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to personal taste. • Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a savory topping that enhances flavor; nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tortellini Soup with Sausage Step 1: Sauté the Sausage In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and no longer pink, giving it a hearty flavor to form the base of your Tortellini Soup with Sausage. Step 2: Add the Vegetables Once the sausage is cooked, introduce 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 cups of cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the vegetables to soften and become fragrant, paving the way for the rich flavors to come. Step 3: Pour in the Broth Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Increase the heat to high and allow the soup to reach a gentle boil. As soon as it bubbles, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, making sure the vegetables become tender but not mushy. Step 4: Cook the Tortellini Add 9 ounces of cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions, typically around 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure the tortellini cooks evenly and absorbs the delicious broth of your Tortellini Soup with Sausage. Step 5: Incorporate the Greens In the final step, gently fold in 2 cups of baby spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the spinach has wilted beautifully. Taste the soup and season it with salt and pepper as needed, bringing all the flavors together for that satisfying finish. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Ladle the steaming Tortellini Soup with Sausage into bowls, garnishing each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, perhaps alongside a slice of crusty bread for soaking up every nourishing drop. You’ve just created a cozy autumn meal that wraps everyone in warmth! What to Serve with Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Cozy up your dinner table with these delightful sides and drinks, creating the perfect fall feast. Crusty Bread: A must-have for dipping, this warm loaf complements the soup’s rich broth, soaking up every delicious drop. Simple Green Salad: Crisp greens and a light vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors, balancing your meal beautifully. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and flavorful, these breadsticks are another comforting choice that pairs delightfully with each bowl of soup. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty flavor of Brussels sprouts enhances the soup while adding a satisfying crunch to the meal. For a touch of sweetness, a slice of homemade Pumpkin Pie offers the perfect finish, bringing a festive autumn vibe to your dinner. With these pairings, your Tortellini Soup with Sausage transforms into an unforgettable feast that warms the heart! Expert Tips for Tortellini Soup with Sausage • Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality sausage for the best flavor. Poor quality can lead to greasy, less savory soup. • Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix up the vegetables! Adding zucchini or bell peppers can enhance the texture of your Tortellini Soup with Sausage. • Don’t Overcook: To prevent mushy vegetables, keep an eye on your soup after adding the broth—10 to 15 minutes on low heat is ideal. • Season as You Go: Always taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process; building flavor at each step makes a huge difference! • Make It Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance; just add the tortellini and greens right before serving to maintain the perfect texture. Variations & Substitutions for Tortellini Soup with Sausage Feel free to get creative with this cozy soup by trying out these fun variations and substitutions that will keep your family guessing. Spicy Twist: Substitute spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick that adds depth to each spoonful. It gives the soup an exciting warmth that’s perfect for chilly nights. Vegetable Boost: Toss in extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to amplify the nutrition and texture. Vibrant colors and crunch will excite your palate and create a heartier flavor profile. Pasta Alternatives: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. This delightful swap keeps all the comforting elements while ensuring inclusivity for everyone at the table. Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. This twist will elevate the broth and add a luxurious richness you won’t want to miss. Herb Infusion: Enhance the herbal notes by incorporating fresh parsley or basil along with the thyme. Their fresher flavors add brightness and complement the savory sausage beautifully. Scratch That Garlic: If you’re looking for a more pronounced garlic flavor, roast your garlic cloves before adding them to the soup. It transforms the taste entirely and adds a sweet, caramelized note. Seasonal Veggies: In the spirit of autumn, add in diced sweet potatoes or parsnips. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory ingredients and enhances the seasonal vibe. Great Garnish: Top each bowl with crispy bacon bits or roasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch that contrasts with the creamy broth. It’s a delightful textural surprise that will wow your guests! Remember to enjoy this warm, inviting soup with your favorite sides like Crusty Bread or a crisp green salad to make your meal complete. Whichever variation you choose, this Tortellini Soup with Sausage is sure to bring comfort to your family table! Storage Tips for Tortellini Soup with Sausage Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This Tortellini Soup with Sausage may actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove. Reheating: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore texture. Stir occasionally until heated through. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving soup out for more than 2 hours to prevent food safety issues. Always refrigerate leftovers promptly. Make Ahead Options These comforting Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a perfect choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the soup base (sans tortellini and spinach) up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate it in an airtight container after cooking. To maintain its quality, reheat gently and avoid cooking the vegetables too long. When you’re ready to serve, simply bring the soup back to a simmer and add the cheese tortellini, cooking according to package instructions (5-7 minutes) until they are tender. Finish by adding the baby spinach for a fresh touch, ensuring your soup is just as delicious as when freshly made. Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe FAQs How do I select the best ingredients for this soup? Absolutely! When selecting Italian sausage, look for fresh, high-quality options from a reputable butcher or your local grocery store. Aim for sausage that has a good amount of seasoning without being overly greasy. For vegetables, choose ones that are firm and vibrant—avoid those with dark spots or soft spots, especially for the butternut squash and carrots. Fresh herbs like thyme should be bright green and fragrant. What’s the best way to store leftover Tortellini Soup with Sausage? To store your soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. I often find that the flavors get even better after a day as they meld together! Remember to keep it tightly sealed to maintain freshness. Can I freeze Tortellini Soup with Sausage? Yes, you can certainly freeze this hearty deliciousness! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave some room for expansion. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if the texture needs a little help. What should I do if my soup is too thick? If you find that your Tortellini Soup with Sausage has turned out thicker than you’d like, just stir in a little more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. Adding a bit of broth not only thins it out but also enhances the flavor. Heat gently while stirring to blend it in seamlessly. Is this soup suitable for specific dietary needs? Yes! This recipe can easily be adapted for various dietary needs. If you’re looking to make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free tortellini. For those watching their fat intake, turkey sausage is a good lean alternative. And for a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. These options can help everyone enjoy a cozy bowl of soup! Hearty Tortellini Soup with Sausage for Cozy Fall Nights Savor the warmth of Tortellini Soup with Sausage, a hearty blend of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and seasonal vegetables. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Soup Base1 pound Italian Sausage Substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can be substituted with vegetable oil.1 medium Onion Use shallots for a milder flavor.2 cloves Garlic Fresh is preferred, but garlic powder can be used.2 medium Carrots Substitute with parsnips if desired.2 cups Butternut Squash Sweet potatoes can be used as an alternative.4 cups Chicken Broth Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.For the Pasta & Greens9 ounces Cheese Tortellini Gluten-free tortellini can be a suitable alternative.2 cups Baby Spinach Kale or Swiss chard can be substituted.For Seasoning & Topping1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Fresh thyme can be used; increase quantity slightly.Salt Adjust to personal taste.Pepper Adjust to personal taste.Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option. Equipment Large Pot Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Tortellini Soup with SausageIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the sausage is browned and no longer pink.Once the sausage is cooked, introduce 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 sliced carrots, and 2 cups of cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.Next, pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Increase the heat to high and allow the soup to reach a gentle boil; then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.Add 9 ounces of cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, typically around 5-7 minutes.In the final step, gently fold in 2 cups of baby spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, perhaps alongside a slice of crusty bread. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 55mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, keep portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!