Cozy Autumn Soup: Sausage Tortellini with Spinach | Easy Fall Dinner Recipe

When the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing more comforting than a bowl of warm, hearty soup. This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is the definition of cozy autumn cooking. With tender cheese-filled tortellini, flavorful sausage, and a creamy tomato broth, it’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to share with family around the table.

Recipe Info:

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb beef sausage, chicken sausage, or turkey sausage (casings removed, crumbled)
• 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
• 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the sausage. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.
2. Add aromatics. Stir in onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Build the broth. Pour in chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, letting the flavors blend.
5. Make it creamy. Stir in the heavy cream, then add tortellini. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until tortellini are tender.
6. Add greens. Stir in spinach and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve & enjoy. Ladle soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Don’t overcook tortellini: Add them near the end so they stay plump and tender.
• Spice control: Adjust red pepper flakes for a mild or spicy kick.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The soup thickens as it sits—just add a splash of broth when reheating.

Recipe Variations

• Protein swap: Try chicken sausage, turkey sausage, lamb sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of cream, and add extra spinach for a veggie-forward twist.
• Veggie boost: Stir in diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers when cooking the onions.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• A simple spinach or green salad makes a refreshing side.
• Garnish bowls with fresh basil, parsley, or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a finishing touch.

Conclusion

This Cozy Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a bowl of comfort that warms the heart and the home. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Grab your pot, simmer this soup, and enjoy it fresh on a chilly evening—you’ll want to make it again and again.