Imagine coming home on a chilly evening to the aroma of a warm, comforting soup simmering on the stove. This Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup is exactly that – a hug in a bowl! It’s a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This recipe brings together the savory goodness of chicken sausage, the cheesy delight of tortellini, and the vibrant freshness of spinach in a creamy, satisfying broth. Are you ready to make a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite?

I remember the first time I made this soup. My kids, usually picky eaters, devoured it! The combination of the creamy broth and the cheesy tortellini was irresistible. It’s become a regular in our meal rotation, and I’m excited to share this simple yet delicious recipe with you. This Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup is not only delicious, but also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip up a batch of this delightful soup. The ingredients are readily available, and the steps are straightforward. In under 30 minutes, you can have a steaming bowl of creamy, flavorful soup on the table, ready to warm you from the inside out. Let’s dive into the details of this amazing Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup.

Gather Your Ingredients for the Best Creamy Tortellini Soup

Before we start cooking, let’s gather all the ingredients we need for this delightful Creamy Tortellini Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound cooked chicken sausage, sliced: Chicken sausage adds a savory, meaty flavor to the soup. Look for your favorite variety, such as Italian, apple, or spicy.
1 package (9-13 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini: Cheese tortellini brings a delightful cheesy and chewy texture to the soup. You can use fresh or dried tortellini, but refrigerated tortellini cooks the quickest.
5 ounces fresh spinach: Fresh spinach adds a vibrant pop of color and a boost of nutrients to the soup. It wilts quickly, making it a perfect addition in the final steps of cooking.
1 cup diced tomatoes: Diced tomatoes provide a touch of acidity and sweetness that balances the richness of the cream. You can use fresh or canned diced tomatoes.
4 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth forms the base of the soup. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream is what makes this soup incredibly creamy and luxurious. For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but the soup won’t be as rich.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the chicken sausage and adds a touch of richness to the soup.
½ teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust to taste.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice to the soup. Adjust to taste.
Optional: grated parmesan cheese for garnish: Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory finish to the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions and Dietary Considerations:

Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Ensure your tortellini is also dairy-free.
Gluten-Free Option: Look for gluten-free tortellini if you have a gluten intolerance.
Lower-Fat Option: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream to reduce the fat content.

Step-by-Step Directions: Making Your Creamy Chicken Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple step-by-step instructions to create a delicious Creamy Chicken Sausage and Tortellini Soup:

Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer before adding the sausage. Using a large pot ensures that all ingredients can be added without overcrowding, and a Dutch oven provides even heat distribution.
Brown the Chicken Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the pot and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. Browning the sausage not only adds flavor but also creates a beautiful color. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Remember, lightly browning the chicken sausage before adding it to the soup gives a richer and deeper flavor.
Add the Chicken Broth: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits (fond) from the sausage, which will add even more flavor to the soup. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes. Tortellini cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy and lose their shape.
Add Tomatoes and Spinach: Stir in the diced tomatoes and fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2 minutes. The spinach should brighten in color as it wilts.
Add Heavy Cream and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Be careful not to let the soup boil at this point, as the cream can curdle.
Heat Through Gently: Heat the soup through gently, being careful not to boil. This step ensures that all the ingredients are well combined and the soup is heated to a pleasant serving temperature.
Serve and Garnish: Serve the soup immediately. Garnish with grated parmesan cheese, if desired. The parmesan cheese adds a salty and savory touch that complements the creamy broth.

Expert Tips & Serving Suggestions for Tortellini Soup

To elevate your Tortellini Soup experience, here are some expert tips and serving suggestions:

Advanced Preparation Tips:

Prepare Ingredients in Advance: To save time, you can slice the chicken sausage, dice the tomatoes, and chop the spinach ahead of time. Store them in separate containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
Make the Soup Ahead: This soup can be made a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve with Crusty Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. A slice of garlic bread would also be a delicious addition.
Add a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup. Consider the Perfect Classic Caesar Salad
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, basil, or chives can add a fresh and aromatic touch to the soup.

Storage Recommendations:

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the tortellini and cream may change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider adding the tortellini after thawing and reheating the soup.

Make-Ahead Ideas:

Soup Base: Prepare the soup base (chicken sausage, broth, tomatoes, and spinach) ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the tortellini and heavy cream.
Individual Portions: Divide the soup into individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Ready to try this recipe? I’d love to hear your thoughts and variations in the comments below! Don’t forget to share your culinary creations on social media using #EasyRecipesChef. Your feedback helps me create even more delicious recipes for you!

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup:

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. However, keep in mind that frozen tortellini may take a bit longer to cook than refrigerated tortellini. Follow the package directions for cooking times, and make sure the tortellini is fully cooked before adding the cream.

What kind of chicken sausage is best for this soup?

The best type of chicken sausage depends on your personal preference. Italian chicken sausage adds a classic savory flavor, while apple chicken sausage adds a touch of sweetness. Spicy chicken sausage can add a nice kick to the soup. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorite! For other chicken recipes, check out our Creamy Tomato Chicken Penne.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup. However, the soup will not be as rich and creamy. If using half-and-half, be extra careful not to boil the soup, as it can curdle more easily than heavy cream. Coconut cream is another great substitute.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Ensure that your tortellini is vegetarian-friendly, as some may contain meat-based ingredients.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! This soup is very versatile, and you can easily add other vegetables to suit your taste. Some great additions include carrots, celery, onions, bell peppers, and zucchini. Sauté the harder vegetables like carrots and celery along with the chicken sausage to ensure they are tender.

How do I prevent the cream from curdling?

To prevent the cream from curdling, make sure to reduce the heat to low before adding the heavy cream. Do not let the soup boil after adding the cream. Stir gently and heat through slowly. Also, adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to the cream before adding it to the soup can help stabilize it.

Can I freeze this soup?

While you can freeze this soup, the texture of the tortellini and cream may change slightly upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider undercooking the tortellini slightly and adding it after thawing and reheating the soup. Store the soup in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?

This soup will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Make sure to cool the soup completely before refrigerating. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I use a different type of broth?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth or chicken bone broth instead of regular chicken broth. Vegetable broth will make the soup lighter and vegetarian-friendly, while chicken bone broth can add extra nutrients and richness.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. A glass of crisp white wine or a light beer can also complement the flavors of the soup. For another great side dish option, consider our Golden Cheddar Herb Drop Biscuits.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup along with the salt and pepper. You can also use spicy chicken sausage or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce to each serving.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can make a big batch of the soup on the weekend and divide it into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners during the week. Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup!

There you have it – a simple, delicious, and comforting Creamy Tortellini and Chicken Sausage Soup that’s perfect for any occasion! This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and I guarantee it will become a regular in your meal rotation. The combination of savory chicken sausage, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth is simply irresistible.

Remember, the best part about cooking is making it your own. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients, spices, and garnishes to create a soup that perfectly suits your taste. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun in the kitchen! Another wonderful comfort food recipe is our Classic Shepherds Pie.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. Now it’s your turn to give it a try! Let me know in the comments how it turned out and if you made any fun variations. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media using #EasyRecipesChef. Happy cooking!