Name: Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz Crumbled Italian Sausage (spicy or mild), for a flavorful and savory base.; 1 tbsp Olive Oil, to cook the sausage and vegetables.; 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning, for added herbal flavor.; 1 tsp Paprika (regular or smoked), for a hint of smokiness.; 1 Large Sweet Potato (peeled, cubed), providing sweetness and texture.; 5 Cloves Garlic (minced), for a fragrant kick.; ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes, to add some heat.; 1 tbsp Tomato Paste, for rich tomato flavor.; 6 Cups Water, to create the soup base.; 8 oz Tortellini (three-cheese, refrigerated), adding richness and texture.; 4 oz Fresh Spinach, for a boost of color and nutrients.; ½ Cup Heavy Cream, for a creamy finish.; 4 tbsp Fresh Thyme, for a fresh herbal topping.

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that combines the savory richness of sausage with the sweetness of sweet potatoes. Toss in tender tortellini and fresh spinach for added texture and color. Finished with heavy cream and a sprinkle of fresh thyme, this soup is a perfect family dinner or weekend meal. It's easy to prepare, filling, and packed with flavor – ideal for a chilly day or when you need something hearty. Serve with crusty bread to dip and enjoy every bite.

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a perfect combination of rich flavors and textures. The savory Italian sausage is paired with sweet potatoes and cheesy tortellini in a creamy, aromatic broth. The addition of fresh spinach adds color and nutrients, while a touch of thyme and red pepper flakes give the soup an extra flavor boost. This comforting dish is easy to make and perfect for cold weather days or when you're craving a filling meal.

INGREDIENTS

Crumbled Italian Sausage: 12 oz, spicy or mild, providing a savory base for the soup.
Olive Oil: 1 tbsp, to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
Italian Seasoning: 1 tbsp, for a blend of herbal flavors.
Paprika: 1 tsp, regular or smoked, to add smokiness and color.
Sweet Potato: 1 large, peeled and cubed, to add natural sweetness and texture to the soup.
Garlic: 5 cloves, minced, for a fragrant kick.
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ tsp, for a little heat.
Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp, to provide rich tomato flavor.
Water: 6 cups, for the base of the soup.
Tortellini: 8 oz, refrigerated, three-cheese variety for a creamy texture.
Fresh Spinach: 4 oz, for a nutritious and fresh addition.
Heavy Cream: ½ cup, for a rich and creamy finish.
Fresh Thyme: 4 tbsp, to garnish and add a fresh herbal flavor.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add crumbled sausage and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
Step 2:: Sprinkle sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika. Add cubed sweet potatoes, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
Step 3:: Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.
Step 4:: Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 10 minutes.
Step 5:: Add spinach and stir until wilted. Remove the soup from heat.
Step 6:: Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and additional red pepper flakes if needed. Garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the soup with crusty bread for dipping.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream.
Feel free to swap the sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

“Adding a little heat with red pepper flakes balances the creamy texture and savory flavors of this soup.” – Chef Gordon Ramsay
“Using fresh thyme as a garnish adds a burst of fresh, aromatic flavor to the soup.” – Chef Ina Garten