Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight
This Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. It combines the rich, smoky flavor of sausage with the cheesy goodness of tortellini in a savory broth filled with vegetables. It’s surprisingly easy to make and is sure to become a family favorite.
## Why You’ll Love This Soup
* **Flavorful:** The smoked sausage adds a depth of flavor that elevates this soup beyond the ordinary. The combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables creates a well-rounded and delicious taste.
* **Hearty and Filling:** The tortellini and sausage make this soup substantial and satisfying, perfect for a complete meal.
* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is relatively simple and straightforward, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor.
* **Versatile:** You can easily customize this soup to your liking by adding different vegetables, herbs, or spices.
* **Comforting:** There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a cold day, and this recipe delivers on all fronts.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
* **Smoked Sausage:** Look for a high-quality smoked sausage, such as kielbasa, andouille, or chorizo. The type of sausage you choose will significantly impact the overall flavor of the soup. We recommend about 1 pound.
* **Tortellini:** Cheese tortellini is a classic choice, but you can also use meat-filled or spinach and ricotta tortellini. Fresh or frozen tortellini will work, but adjust cooking time accordingly. You’ll need about 9-12 ounces.
* **Onion:** A yellow or white onion provides a foundational savory flavor. One medium onion, diced, should do the trick.
* **Carrots:** Carrots add sweetness, color, and texture. Two medium carrots, peeled and diced, are ideal.
* **Celery:** Celery contributes a subtle, earthy flavor and adds a nice crunch. Two stalks of celery, diced, are perfect.
* **Garlic:** Fresh garlic is essential for a robust flavor. Use 2-3 cloves, minced.
* **Chicken Broth:** This forms the base of the soup. Low-sodium chicken broth allows you to control the salt level. 6-8 cups is needed, depending on desired thickness.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness. One 14.5-ounce can, undrained, is recommended.
* **Tomato Paste:** A small amount of tomato paste deepens the tomato flavor and adds richness. 1-2 tablespoons are generally used.
* **Italian Seasoning:** This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor. One teaspoon is a good starting point.
* **Dried Oregano:** Adds an earthy, slightly peppery note. About half a teaspoon is suitable.
* **Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):** If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Salt and Black Pepper:** To taste. Remember that the smoked sausage and chicken broth already contain salt, so season carefully.
* **Olive Oil:** For sautéing the vegetables. 1-2 tablespoons are sufficient.
* **Fresh Parsley (Optional):** For garnish. Adds freshness and visual appeal.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional):** For serving. Adds a salty, savory flavor.
* **Spinach or Kale (Optional):** Adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and color.
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Pot or Dutch Oven:** This will be used to cook the soup.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knife:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For measuring ingredients.
* **Ladle:** For serving the soup.
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make this delicious Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup:
**1. Prepare the Ingredients:**
* Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic.
* Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces (about ¼-inch thick).
* If using spinach or kale, wash and chop it.
* Gather all other ingredients.
**2. Sauté the Vegetables and Sausage:**
* Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
* Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will release some of the sausage’s flavorful fat.
**3. Add the Remaining Ingredients (Except Tortellini and Greens):**
* Stir in the tomato paste, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
* Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to allow the spices to bloom.
* Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice).
* Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes, to allow the flavors to meld. Longer simmering will result in a richer flavor.
* Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember to taste the soup after adding the sausage and tomatoes, as they may already contain salt.
**4. Add the Tortellini:**
* Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup back to a simmer.
* Add the tortellini and cook according to the package directions (usually 3-5 minutes for fresh or refrigerated tortellini, and 5-7 minutes for frozen tortellini). The tortellini should be tender but not mushy.
* Be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they can become soft and fall apart.
**5. Add Greens (Optional):**
* If using spinach or kale, add it to the soup during the last minute of cooking. Stir until the greens wilt.
**6. Serve:**
* Ladle the soup into bowls.
* Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
* Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for the Best Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup
* **Use High-Quality Smoked Sausage:** The quality of the sausage will significantly impact the flavor of the soup. Choose a sausage that you enjoy eating on its own.
* **Don’t Overcook the Tortellini:** Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and fall apart. Cook them according to the package directions and check for doneness frequently.
* **Adjust the Seasoning:** Taste the soup frequently and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remember that the smoked sausage and chicken broth already contain salt, so season carefully.
* **Add a Touch of Cream (Optional):** For a richer, creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
* **Make it Spicy:** If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
* **Make it Ahead of Time:** This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually meld and improve overnight.
* **Freeze for Later:** This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
## Variations and Substitutions
* **Different Sausage:** Experiment with different types of smoked sausage, such as andouille, chorizo, or Italian sausage. You can also use pre-cooked chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
* **Different Tortellini:** Use different fillings for the tortellini, such as meat, spinach and ricotta, or mushroom. You can also use different shapes of pasta, such as ravioli or gnocchi, if you don’t have tortellini on hand.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables, such as beans or lentils, for protein.
* **Spicy Version:** Use andouille sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
* **Creamy Version:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
* **Add Beans:** Add a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or Great Northern beans for extra protein and fiber.
## Serving Suggestions
* Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
* Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
* Sprinkle with fresh herbs, such as parsley, basil, or chives.
* Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
* Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting combination.
## Storage Instructions
* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze:** Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheating may cause the tortellini texture to change slightly.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)**
(Note: Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
* Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 25-35g
* Fiber: 3-5g
## Recipe Card
**Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup**
A comforting and flavorful soup featuring smoked sausage, cheese tortellini, and a savory broth.
**Prep Time:** 15 minutes
**Cook Time:** 30 minutes
**Total Time:** 45 minutes
**Servings:** 6-8
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 medium yellow onion, diced
* 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 stalks celery, diced
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound smoked sausage (kielbasa, andouille, or chorizo), sliced
* 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* ½ teaspoon dried oregano
* Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
* 6-8 cups chicken broth (low-sodium)
* 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 9-12 ounces cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
* Spinach or Kale (Optional): Adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking adds extra nutrients and color.
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ingredients:** Dice onion, carrots, and celery. Mince garlic. Slice smoked sausage.
2. **Sauté Vegetables and Sausage:** Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 3-5 minutes.
3. **Add Remaining Ingredients (Except Tortellini and Greens):** Stir in tomato paste, Italian seasoning, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1 minute. Pour in chicken broth and add diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-30 minutes.
4. **Add Tortellini:** Increase heat to medium and bring back to a simmer. Add tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3-7 minutes), until tender.
5. **Add Greens (Optional):** If using spinach or kale, add it to the soup during the last minute of cooking. Stir until the greens wilt.
6. **Serve:** Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Sausage and Tortellini Soup!