Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings. This delightful dish combines cheese tortellini with tender chicken sausage, vibrant spinach, and hearty beans in a rich creamy tomato broth. It’s a comforting meal that is not only easy to prepare but also sure to please the whole family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup makes for a speedy weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy broth creates an irresistible flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins while keeping the base creamy and delicious.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with cheesy tortellini!
• Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, gather your essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or soup pot: Provides even heat distribution for cooking the ingredients thoroughly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware and breaking up meat evenly.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (chicken or beef)
• 3 cups mirepoix veggies (3 stalks celery, 2 carrots, 1 small onion, diced)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 3 heaping tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon flour

For the Broth

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 1 14.5oz can crushed tomatoes

For the Add-Ins

• 10oz cheese tortellini
• 1 15oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups spinach, chopped

For the Creaminess

• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese + more for serving + parmesan rind if available!

Toppings

• Fresh basil
• Black pepper
• Parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat, add a swish of olive oil. When hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spatula until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes). Remove to a paper towel-lined plate or bowl while leaving about 1 tablespoon fat in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the mirepoix veggies to the pot. Toss them in the fat to coat well and sauté until mostly softened (around 7 minutes). Lower heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic, chopped thyme, sun-dried tomatoes, black pepper, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and Italian seasoning. Stir until combined and fragrant (about 60 seconds). Sprinkle flour over the mixture and toss to combine; cook for another minute.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in chicken stock and crushed tomatoes. Bring it to a boil then reduce to a simmer. Cook until slightly thickened (5-10 minutes). If you have a parmesan rind, add it while simmering. Stir in cheese tortellini and white beans; simmer for 3-4 minutes until tortellini float to the top and are tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

Stir in cooked sausage, chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Ladle into bowls and serve hot topped with more Parmesan, fresh basil, and black pepper.

Enjoy your cozy bowl of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish is versatile and pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides, allowing you to customize each bowl to your liking.

Toppings for Extra Flavor

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and freshness that complements the creaminess of the soup.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese enhances the savory profile, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle of cracked black pepper adds a hint of spice and depth to the overall taste.

Accompaniments for a Complete Meal

• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread brings an extra layer of flavor and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Salad: A light garden salad with a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is absolutely delightful, consider these simple tips that enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs amplify the flavors in your soup, creating a more vibrant dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just until they float; overcooking can make them mushy.
• Incorporate Greens Last: Add spinach towards the end of cooking to keep it vibrant and retain its nutrients.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can make for an enjoyable meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement this tasty soup beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
2. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables offers a flavorful appetizer option.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a healthy touch while enhancing the meal’s presentation.
4. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These warm, buttery knots are perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes a fresh and crunchy accompaniment.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing provides a nutritious option that pairs well with soup flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch for:

• Using uncooked sausage: Always ensure the sausage is fully cooked before adding other ingredients. This enhances flavor and ensures safety.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup as it cooks. You may need to adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time for tortellini; overcooked pasta can become mushy. Aim for al dente.
• Skipping the fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like basil add a vibrant flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish immensely.
• Using low-quality broth: A good quality chicken stock makes a big difference in flavor. Opt for low-sodium versions to control salt levels.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, here are some common inquiries:

What can I substitute for cheese tortellini?

You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as gnocchi or small shells, to create a similar texture and flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute sausage with crumbled veggie sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How can I thicken my Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup?

To thicken the soup, you can add more flour at the beginning or blend part of the soup and mix it back in.

What toppings work best for this soup?

Fresh basil, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of black pepper complement the flavors wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your taste preferences. Try it out; it’s sure to become a family favorite!