Name: Cozy Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage for Chilly Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (can swap with ground turkey or chicken); 1 tablespoon Olive oil (substitute with vegetable oil if needed); 1 Onion (diced, yellow or white preferred); 3 Garlic cloves (minced, fresh preferred); 2 Carrots (chopped); 1 cup Butternut squash (diced); 6 cups Chicken broth (can use vegetable broth for vegetarian version); 9 ounces Cheese tortellini (can replace with ravioli or gnocchi); 2 cups Baby spinach (can substitute with Swiss chard or kale); 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (fresh thyme can be used); to taste Salt; to taste Pepper; 1 cup Grated Parmesan cheese (substitute with Pecorino Romano if desired)

As the air turns crisp and the leaves blanket the ground in shades of amber and gold, I find myself craving warm, hearty dishes that bring comfort and satisfaction. That’s where my Hearty Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage comes into play. This cozy bowl of goodness not only showcases the rich flavors of savory sausage and soft cheese tortellini but also celebrates the season with sweet autumn vegetables. With quick prep time and the ability to feed the whole family, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends. So, are you ready to embrace the flavors of fall with me?

Why is this soup a fall favorite?

Comforting Warmth: This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage wraps you in a delicious embrace, perfect for chilly nights.
Rich Flavors: The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant vegetables creates an explosion of taste in every spoonful.
Family-Friendly: It’s simple to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.
Quick Preparation: With just one pot and under 30 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have a hot meal in no time!
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or spices, just like you would in my Cheddar Garlic Soup for a unique twist.
Nourishing Goodness: Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients, this soup satisfies both your hunger and health goals.

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Ingredients

• Dive into the heart of fall with these essential ingredients!

For the Soup Base

Italian sausage – Provides rich flavor and protein; swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Olive oil – Used for sautéing ingredients, adds healthy fats; can use vegetable oil if needed.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onion is optimal for sweetness.
Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred, but powdered can work in a pinch.
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and texture; parsnips can be a great alternative.
Butternut squash – Contributes a creamy texture and autumn sweetness; sweet potatoes or pumpkin can work as substitutes.
Chicken broth – Serves as the flavorful base; use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

For the Tortellini

Cheese tortellini – Adds heartiness and richness; can replace with ravioli or gnocchi if desired.

For the Finish

Baby spinach – Provides a fresh element; Swiss chard or kale are good alternatives.
Dried thyme – Imparts aromatic notes; fresh thyme can step in for a fresher flavor.
Salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing overall taste.
Grated Parmesan cheese – Adds creaminess and umami; substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage shines with comforting flavors and heartiness, making it a splendid choice for family dinners. Enjoy the bounty of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Vegetables
Next, add 1 diced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped carrots, and 1 cup of diced butternut squash to the pot. Sauté these ingredients for about 5 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the vegetables just start to soften. This builds a sweet and fragrant base for your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage.

Step 3: Incorporate the Broth
Pour in 6 cups of chicken broth and add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Stir in 9 ounces of cheese tortellini, cooking according to package instructions, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on the tortellini; you want them to be tender but not overcooked, so test them as they approach doneness.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach
Once the tortellini are cooked, fold in about 2 cups of baby spinach. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and adds a pop of color. This fresh addition not only enhances the nutrition but also complements the hearty soup nicely.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage and season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the delicious soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, and watch your family savor every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage ahead of time is not only a time-saver for busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to develop beautifully! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, and butternut squash) and refrigerate them in an airtight container up to 3 days before cooking. Additionally, you can cook the sausage, blend it with the sautéed veggies, and store this base in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the base, add the chicken broth, and stir in the tortellini as per the original instructions. This method ensures that your soup retains its rich taste and comforting quality, making your meal prep feel effortless!

Storage Tips for Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping the flavors fresh and vibrant for lunch or dinner.

Freezer: This comforting soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving room for expansion.

Reheating: To reheat, warm slowly on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess, ensuring it doesn’t become too thick.

Leftovers: Enjoy the rich flavors even after a day or two; the soup tends to taste even better as the ingredients meld together.

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch and elevate the cozy flavors of this delightful soup!

Protein Boost: Add cooked beans for extra protein and fiber; they blend seamlessly with the existing flavors.
Seasonal Vegetables: Consider incorporating zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans based on what’s fresh at your local market for delightful variety.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or swap in spicy Italian sausage for a fiery twist.
Creamy Lover’s Delight: Enhance the richness by stirring in a splash of heavy cream just before serving, lending a luxurious texture to each bowl.
Herb Variations: Try fresh basil or oregano instead of thyme for a different flavor profile. Both herbs add freshness that complements the heartiness beautifully.
Vegan Twist: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth to create a comforting vegan version that everyone will love.
Alternative Pasta: Replace the cheese tortellini with ravioli or gnocchi for a new adventure in texture and taste, just like in my scrumptious Baked Potato Soup.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts just before serving for a crunchy texture that adds a delightful nutty note.

With all these variations, you’re set to make your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage a unique comfort dish every time! Enjoy exploring the diverse flavors this season has to offer!

Expert Tips for Autumn Tortellini Soup

Choose Quality Sausage: Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Avoid leaner options that may lack the rich taste essential in this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage.
Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close watch on the tortellini as they cook. Overcooking can turn them mushy, compromising the texture of your soup.
Balance the Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust with salt and pepper to bring out the flavors. Season incrementally to avoid over-salting.
Customize with Veggies: Feel free to throw in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. This customization not only enhances flavor but also adds variety to your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage.
Make Ahead: This soup can be made in advance; just add the tortellini right before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.
Reheating Tips: When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore the soup’s consistency. This prevents it from becoming too thick upon cooling.

What to Serve with Hearty Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Elevate your cozy dinner with delightful sides that perfectly complement this heartwarming bowl of goodness.

Crusty Bread: Classic and comforting, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the savory broth. It adds a satisfying crunch against the creamy soup.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula and cherry tomatoes provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. Toss with a balsamic vinaigrette for tangy notes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Sprinkled with garlic and Parmesan, the crispy edges of roasted Brussels sprouts add depth of flavor and a delightful crunch alongside the soup.
Garlic Parmesan Knots: Soft, buttery knots with a hint of garlic create a perfect pairing. Their warm, fluffy texture harmonizes beautifully with the soup’s heartiness.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, an apple crisp brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to your meal. The fruity aroma complements the fall flavors of the soup splendidly.
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay balances the richness of the soup. Its refreshing acidity will brighten every bite and round out the meal beautifully.

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right vegetables for my soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, select seasonal vegetables that are fresh and vibrant. Look for butternut squash that feels firm and heavy for its size and has a smooth skin. If using carrots, choose those that are bright orange, crisp, and free from dark spots. Fresh onions should feel solid and have shiny skins, while spinach leaves ought to be vibrant green with no wilting.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Sure thing! Store your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to keep the flavors fresh. If you want to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers, leaving a little extra space for the soup to expand as it freezes.

Can I freeze this soup? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage, first let it cool completely in the pot. Once cooled, transfer the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label with the date, and it should retain its best quality for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop with a splash of broth to restore creaminess.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?
Very good question! If you find your soup is thicker than you’d like, simply add more chicken broth or water to it during reheating. Start with about ½ cup, then stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes. If needed, adjust further until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring that the flavors remain rich and the soup is as comforting as ever.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For those looking to make this soup gluten-free, swap out the cheese tortellini for gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores. If you’re vegetarian, replace the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Always be mindful of any allergies; for instance, make sure to check if there’s any dairy if you’re serving this to someone with lactose intolerance.

How can I spice things up if I want more heat?
The more the merrier! If you’re craving some spice, simply sprinkle in red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage instead of regular. You could also add diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce while the soup simmers; just start small and adjust according to your heat preference for that cozy little kick in your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage.