Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with autumn flavors, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, savory Italian sausage mingling with sweet butternut squash, fresh spinach, and pillowy cheese tortellini all swimming in a rich, herb-infused broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day while showcasing the best that fall produce and Italian flavors have to offer. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or looking for a dish that impresses friends, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage delivers on taste, texture, and pure satisfaction.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage plays a key role, and the beauty is in their simplicity. From the hearty Italian sausage that adds depth, to the sweet butternut squash that brings natural sweetness and vibrant color, these essentials combine to create a rich and balanced soup. Each item is chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, making your cooking experience straightforward yet incredibly rewarding.

• 1 lb Italian sausage: Choose a good-quality sausage to ensure bold, savory flavor and the perfect meaty texture.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and sauté vegetables, adding subtle fruity notes.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and aromatic depth when softened.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of fragrant warmth, enhancing the overall taste.
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds mild sweetness and a bit of crunch to the soup’s texture.
• 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed: Offers creamy sweetness, color, and seasonal autumn flair.
• 6 cups chicken broth: The comforting base that ties all the ingredients together with savory richness.
• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini: Delivers tender, cheesy pockets that make each bite irresistibly delicious.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness, mild bitterness, and a beautiful pop of green.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with earthy, herbaceous notes perfect for fall.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate all the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: A final touch of umami richness to finish every bowl perfectly.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial to develop that deep, savory foundation for the soup. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through; don’t forget to remove any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from getting greasy. The delicious aroma at this point will already have your kitchen feeling like a cozy autumn retreat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and cubed butternut squash to the pot. Sauté everything together for about five minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables start to soften. This step unlocks the natural sweetness of the squash and carrots while building more flavor as the garlic and onions release their fragrant oils. It’s these little layers that make the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage so irresistibly tasty.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately lower the heat and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes. This allows the butternut squash and carrots to become tender and lets all the flavors meld beautifully. The broth will deepen in color and taste, turning into the comforting heart of your soup.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Once the vegetables are tender, add the cheese tortellini directly to the pot. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually about 5 to 7 minutes until the tortellini are soft and perfectly cooked. The cheesy pockets will soak up some of the flavorful broth, making every bite utterly dreamy. Be careful not to overcook them to prevent sogginess.

Step 5: Add the Spinach and Season

Finally, stir in the baby spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 1 to 2 minutes. This fresh green adds a lovely contrast in color and a gentle, earthy bite. Finish by seasoning the soup with salt and pepper to taste – which really brings everything into harmony. At this point, your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is ready to ladle into bowls!

Step 6: Serve with Parmesan

Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slightly into the hot broth, creating an added layer of creamy, salty goodness that complements the sausage and tortellini perfectly. Now, dig in and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Garnishes

To elevate your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage even further, consider garnishing with a few fresh thyme sprigs, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a mild kick. Crispy croutons or toasted pine nuts can also add delightful crunch. These small touches bring extra texture and visual appeal to each bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty enough to be a main course but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crusty artisan bread or a garlic baguette is perfect for soaking up all that flavorful broth. For a lighter option, try a crisp autumn salad with apples, pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette to complement the savory richness of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive fall dinner or entertaining, serve the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage in mini pumpkin bowls or rustic soup crocks to enhance the seasonal vibe. You can also top the soup with a rosette of cream or swirl in some pesto for a colorful twist. These presentation ideas turn a homey meal into an impressive feast that everyone will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after resting overnight. The soup will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it a great option for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage for longer, freezing is an option, but with caution. Since tortellini can become mushy when frozen and reheated, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add the pasta fresh when you reheat the soup for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If frozen without tortellini, add fresh cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions before serving. Avoid boiling vigorously to keep the sausage tender and the pasta intact. A splash of broth can be added if the soup thickens too much after refrigeration.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still delivers great flavor. Just pick a well-seasoned variety to keep that bold taste that makes the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage so comforting.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with hearty mushrooms or use a plant-based sausage alternative. Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep the flavors in harmony. The soup will still be delicious with a vegetarian twist.

What type of cheese tortellini works best for this soup?

Classic cheese tortellini stuffed with ricotta or a blend of Italian cheeses are perfect choices. They melt into the soup beautifully and complement the savory sausage. Feel free to experiment with spinach or mushroom tortellini for a fun variation.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried thyme?

Fresh thyme works wonderfully in this soup and adds a brighter, more herbaceous flavor. Use about 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves in place of the dried. Add the fresh herbs during the simmering step to release their full aroma.

What can I serve as a dessert after this rich soup?

After this hearty and flavorful Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage, something light and fresh works best. Try a simple apple crisp, baked pears with cinnamon, or a tangy lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate and end your meal on a sweet note without feeling heavy.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage a try – it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and joy with every spoonful, especially as the weather cools down. The blend of savory sausage, sweet squash, tender tortellini, and vibrant greens makes it a standout fall favorite you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, cozy up in the kitchen, and enjoy the warming goodness of this fantastic soup with those you love.

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