Save A hearty comforting soup featuring spicy Italian sausage sweet potatoes and cheese tortellini all simmered in an herby creamy broth and finished with fresh spinach for a satisfying meal on chilly evenings.
This soup quickly became a family favorite on cold nights because it is both filling and easy to make.
Ingredients
- Sausage and Seasoning: 12 oz (340 g) spicy Italian sausage crumbled 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus more to taste)
- Vegetables and Flavorings: 1 large sweet potato (about 12 oz / 340 g) peeled and cubed (or 2 small sweet potatoes) 5 cloves garlic minced 1 tablespoon tomato paste 4 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) 4 oz (115 g) fresh spinach
- Liquids and Pasta: 6 cups water 8 oz (225 g) refrigerated three-cheese tortellini 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large high-sided pot over medium heat Add the crumbled sausage and cook stirring frequently until browned and cooked through about 5 7 minutes Drain excess grease
- Step 2:
- Sprinkle cooked sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika Stir well to coat
- Step 3:
- Add cubed sweet potatoes minced garlic red pepper flakes and tomato paste Mix thoroughly to combine
- Step 4:
- Pour in the water Increase heat and bring to a boil stirring to dissolve the tomato paste
- Step 5:
- Once boiling reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender
- Step 6:
- Add the tortellini to the soup Cover and cook at a gentle boil for 10 minutes or according to package instructions until pasta is just tender
- Step 7:
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until just wilted about 1 minute
- Step 8:
- Remove the pot from heat Gently stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated
- Step 9:
- Season to taste with salt (if needed) and additional red pepper flakes for extra heat Top with fresh thyme before serving
Save We often gather around the table enjoying this warm soup together especially on winter nights.
Required Tools
Large high-sided pot with lid Cutting board and knife Wooden spoon or spatula Ladle Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (tortellini) Milk (tortellini heavy cream) Egg (tortellini possibly sausage) May contain Soy (check sausage and tortellini labels) Sulfites (in sausage) If in doubt double-check all ingredient packaging for allergen information
Nutritional Information
Calories ~410 Total Fat 25 g Carbohydrates 28 g Protein 16 g per serving
Save This creamy sausage tortellini soup is a wonderful balance of spicy and comforting that’s sure to please the whole family.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of sausage works best?
Spicy Italian sausage adds robust flavor, but mild sausage can be used for less heat.
- → Can I substitute the tortellini?
Yes, cheese tortellini is ideal, but ravioli or small pasta shapes can be used alternatively.
- → How do I prevent the spinach from overcooking?
Add fresh spinach at the end and stir just until wilted, about one minute, to preserve texture and color.
- → Is it okay to freeze this dish?
Yes, freeze before adding cream; add cream when reheating to maintain a smooth consistency.
- → Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh thyme?
Dried thyme works as a substitute; use 1 teaspoon dried to equal 4 tablespoons fresh.