This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a delicious, cozy dinner perfect for cool nights. Packed with savory sausage, pillowy tortellini, and sweet autumn veggies.
1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 cup diced butternut squash (fresh or frozen)
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
9 oz (250g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups baby spinach, roughly chopped
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil or parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a 5-6 quart Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned with crispy edges.
Stir in onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and butternut squash. Saute for 6-8 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth. Stir in oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Add tortellini to the soup and simmer uncovered for 5-7 minutes, or until tortellini are tender and cooked through. If using frozen tortellini, add 2-3 extra minutes.
Stir in baby spinach and cook for 2 minutes, just until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Ladle soup into bowls. Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Use refrigerated or fresh tortellini for best texture. If using frozen tortellini, add 2-3 extra minutes to cooking time.
For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream at the end of cooking.
Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and checking sausage labels.
Vegetarian option: Swap sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Can make base ahead and add tortellini and spinach when reheating for best texture.
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.