Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

A warm bowl of Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the perfect way to embrace the cozy vibes of the season. This delightful dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and a medley of seasonal vegetables in a rich broth. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this soup not only warms you up but also brings a burst of flavor that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: The combination of sausage and cheese tortellini creates a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste.
• Perfect for Fall: Seasonal ingredients like butternut squash and baby spinach make this soup a true autumn delight.
• Hearty Servings: This recipe makes six servings, making it ideal for larger families or meal prepping for the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this cozy soup, gather your kitchen essentials. Having the right tools makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot ensures all ingredients cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching non-stick surfaces, promoting even cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for quickly chopping vegetables, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage features a delightful mix of ingredients that come together beautifully.

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

For the Broth and Finish

• 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

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

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.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and butternut squash to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add Broth and Herbs

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.

Step 4: Cook Tortellini

Add cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook according to package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes) until tortellini are tender.

Step 5: Incorporate Spinach

Stir in baby spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls. Top generously with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

With its comforting flavors and straightforward process, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is sure to become a favorite in your home as you enjoy the beauty of fall!

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Serving your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage can elevate this cozy dish to new heights. Here are some delightful suggestions for serving that will impress your family and friends.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top of the soup for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve slices of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette on the side for dipping into the rich broth.

Offer a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.

Enhance with Cheese

• Mozzarella or Goat Cheese: Add small chunks of mozzarella or crumbles of goat cheese on top for extra creaminess and flavor.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personalized Portions: Ladle the soup into individual bowls for a charming presentation at dinner parties or gatherings.

How to Perfect Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

To make the most out of your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage, consider these helpful tips to enhance the flavors and texture of your dish.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh vegetables and good-quality sausage will significantly improve the taste of your soup.
• Adjust Broth Flavor: Experiment by adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to brighten up the broth’s flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Be sure to follow package instructions closely, as overcooked tortellini can become mushy.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include seasonal vegetables like kale or sweet potatoes for added nutrition and variety.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time for meal prep.
• Freeze Leftovers: Portion any leftovers into containers for an easy lunch option later in the week.

Best Side Dishes for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pairing side dishes with your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread infused with garlic butter complements the soup beautifully.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic vinegar make a vibrant side.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with olive oil create a delicious crunch alongside your soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa, beans, and spices offer a hearty addition to your meal.
5. Vegetable Platter: A colorful platter of raw veggies served with hummus provides freshness and crunch.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese is comforting and pairs well with the soup’s flavors.
7. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters made from shredded zucchini add a unique twist to your dining experience.
8. Crispy Kale Chips: Lightly salted kale chips are a healthy snack that balances out the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage, it’s easy to miss a few key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Sauté Step: Not sautéing the vegetables can lead to a lack of flavor. Always take the time to soften your onions and garlic before adding the broth.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent even cooking. Make sure to add them in stages, starting with meat and then vegetables.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Each ingredient has a specific cooking time. Follow the recipe closely to ensure everything is cooked perfectly.
• Using Cold Broth: Starting with cold broth can lower the cooking temperature. Always use warm or room-temperature broth for better results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes at a time, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, turkey, or beef sausage for variety while keeping the flavors intact.

How do I customize my Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like kale or zucchini based on your taste preferences.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and check that your broth is also gluten-free.

What can I serve alongside the soup?

A fresh green salad or crusty bread works great as sides for this comforting soup experience.

Final Thoughts

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is not just a comforting dish; it also offers versatility. You can easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes. Give this recipe a try for a cozy meal perfect for chilly autumn evenings!