Sausage Tortellini Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a savory broth. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Add in the onion and garlic, cooking until translucent.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Popular questions:
- Q: Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
- A: Yes, you can use frozen tortellini, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Q: Can I substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef?
- A: Yes, you can use ground beef for a different flavor profile.
- Q: How can I make this soup spicier?
- A: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.
- Q: Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
- A: Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Q: Can I freeze this soup for later?
- A: Yes, you can freeze the soup, just thaw and reheat before serving.
Helpful tips:
- For added flavor, use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamy texture.
- Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version of this soup.
- Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for extra richness.
Expert Secrets:
- Simmer the soup for at least 20 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop.
- Adjust the seasoning with Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme for an extra taste dimension.
- Try using different types of tortellini such as spinach and ricotta for variety.
- Skim off any excess fat from the sausage for a lighter soup.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity.