Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal. This rich and flavorful soup combines savory ingredients like chicken sausage, spinach, and cheese tortellini in a creamy tomato broth. It’s an easy recipe the entire family will love and crave time after time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy nights.
• Heartwarming Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy broth makes every bite delicious.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
• Family Favorite: The creamy texture and cheesy tortellini are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with veggies and protein, this soup offers a hearty meal that satisfies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready. This will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Provides ample space for sautéing and simmering ingredients evenly.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (chicken or beef)
• 3 cups mirepoix veggies (aka 3 stalks celery, 2 carrots, 1 small onion, all diced small)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
• 3 heaping tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped

Seasonings

• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon flour

Liquids and Pasta

• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 1 14.5oz can crushed tomatoes
• 10oz cheese tortellini

Final Touches

• 1 15oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese + more for serving + parmesan rind if you have it!

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 the oil is hot, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spatula until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate or bowl while leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

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

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour in chicken stock and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Cook until slightly thickened for about 5-10 minutes. If using parmesan rind, add it while simmering.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Beans

Add cheese tortellini and white beans to the pot. Simmer for about 3-4 minutes until tortellini floats to the top and is fully cooked through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Stir in cooked sausage, chopped spinach, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Ladle into bowls and serve hot topped with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal experience. This comforting dish pairs well with various toppings and sides that enhance its flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions.

Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Parsley: Add freshly chopped parsley to brighten the soup and complement the creamy broth.

Cheese Toppings

• Parmesan: Grate extra Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving for a rich, savory finish.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy contrast to the creamy soup.

Crunchy Elements

• Croutons: Toasted bread cubes bring a satisfying crunch. Try garlic or herb-flavored croutons for extra taste.
• Toasted Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or walnuts can add texture and depth.

Accompaniments

• Breadsticks: Serve with warm breadsticks for dipping into the soup, making each bite enjoyable.
• Salad: A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful bowl every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs. They enhance flavor and add vibrant colors to your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning based on your preference for a personalized flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini until just tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that detracts from the dish’s overall texture.
• Add Gelling Agents Wisely: If you prefer a thicker soup, consider using plant-based gelling agents like agar-agar or pectin instead of traditional methods.
• Explore Broth Options: Experiment with different types of low-sodium broths or stocks like vegetable broth for unique flavor profiles.
• Cool and Store Properly: If making ahead, cool the soup completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this comforting soup beautifully.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, balancing out the creaminess of the soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring color and nutrients to your meal.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices make an excellent hearty side dish that pairs well with soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with vegetables offers protein and fiber that complements the creamy tortellini nicely.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables provides variety and richness alongside your soup.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors in the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the sausage browning: Not browning the sausage properly can lead to a bland soup. Always ensure it is cooked until browned for a depth of flavor.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make them mushy. Add them just before serving and simmer until they float to maintain their texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in strength; not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in an unseasoned soup. Taste as you go and modify accordingly.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: Poor-quality crushed tomatoes can ruin the broth. Choose high-quality canned tomatoes for a rich flavor.
• Not adding fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like basil add brightness. Don’t skip them; add them at the end for maximum flavor impact.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup.

Can I use different types of tortellini?

Yes! You can use any variety of tortellini you prefer, including spinach or mushroom-filled options for added flavor.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and substitute with additional vegetables or plant-based protein options.

Can I prepare Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead but consider adding tortellini closer to serving time to avoid overcooking.

What are some good toppings for this soup?

Great toppings include fresh basil, extra parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for cozy evenings or weeknight dinners. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with different proteins and veggies, this soup is sure to please everyone at your table!