Tortellini soup is a heartwarming Italian classic, combining tender pasta, fresh vegetables, and flavorful sausage in a creamy, comforting broth. This authentic recipe is rich, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Here’s how to make an authentic Italian tortellini soup that serves 6-8 people.
1. Authentic Italian Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground mild Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon kosher sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon fennel seed, crushed or chopped
- One 6-oz. can tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6–7 cups chicken broth
- 14 oz. refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups half and half or heavy cream
- 1 handful chopped fresh spinach
- Parmesan and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground Italian sausage over medium heat. Break it into small pieces with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once fully cooked, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for added flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots to the pot. Sauté over medium-high heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, kosher sea salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed fennel seed. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Base
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine cook down for about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking to remove lumps. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the Tortellini and Cream
Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and allow them to cook according to the package instructions (usually about 5–7 minutes). Once the tortellini are tender, stir in the half and half or heavy cream, followed by the chopped spinach. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for an extra-special meal.
2. Tips to Perfect Tortellini Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh vegetables, quality chicken broth, and refrigerated tortellini elevate the flavor of this soup. Avoid canned or frozen tortellini for the best results.
Don’t Skip the Fennel Seed
Fennel seed adds an authentic Italian flavor that pairs beautifully with the sausage. Crush or chop it lightly to release its aroma.
Adjust the Creaminess
For a lighter soup, use half and half. For a richer experience, opt for heavy cream. You can also adjust the amount of cream based on personal preference.
Cook Tortellini Just Right
Add the tortellini towards the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming overcooked or mushy.
Customize the Protein
While mild Italian sausage is traditional, spicy sausage or even ground turkey can be used for a twist.
3. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storing
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the tortellini separate if possible, as they can absorb the broth and become overly soft.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its consistency if needed. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the creamy base to separate.
This authentic Italian tortellini soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of hearty flavors and creamy textures. Paired with a warm slice of bread and a sprinkle of Parmesan, it’s a dish that turns any meal into a celebration. Enjoy!
