Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Cozy up with a bowl of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. This delightful dish combines cheese tortellini, savory sausage, fresh spinach, and hearty beans in a rich, creamy tomato broth. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh herbs creates a deliciously aromatic broth.
• Versatile Ingredients: Substitute ingredients based on what you have at home without sacrificing flavor.
• Comforting Texture: Creamy broth combined with tender tortellini makes each spoonful irresistible.
• Family-Friendly: A hit among kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking this delicious soup, gather your essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Chopping board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven or soup pot: Provides even heat distribution, perfect for simmering soups.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb Italian sausage (chicken or beef)
• 3 cups mirepoix veggies (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
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon flour

For the Broth

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

For the Soup

• 10oz cheese tortellini
• 1 15oz can white beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups spinach, chopped

For Creaminess

• 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, leaving about 1 tablespoon fat in the pan.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

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

Step 3: Create Broth

Pour in chicken stock and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to simmer. Cook until slightly thickened (5-10 minutes). If using a parmesan rind, add it while simmering. Add tortellini and white beans. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until tortellini float to the top and are tender.

Step 4: Finish with Cream

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 leaves, and black pepper.

Enjoy your homemade Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, perfect for savoring on chilly nights!

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup can elevate your dining experience. This hearty soup not only warms you up but also pairs beautifully with various toppings and accompaniments that enhance its rich flavors.

Toppings

• Fresh Basil: Add a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a fragrant touch that complements the soup’s creaminess.
• Extra Parmesan Cheese: Grate some extra Parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor and a delightful cheesy finish.
• Black Pepper: A dash of freshly cracked black pepper brings a subtle heat that balances the creamy broth.

Bread Pairings

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette to soak up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread adds a savory crunch and is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are another ideal choice for a fun and interactive meal.

Salad Options

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing side that complements the Tuscan flavors.

How to Perfect Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

To make your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup even more delicious, here are some helpful tips to consider while cooking.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs whenever possible. They enhance the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
• Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini as they cook. Remove them from heat once they float to ensure they remain tender and don’t become mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Adding more salt or pepper can bring out the flavors even more.
• Incorporate Different Veggies: Experiment with adding other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Pairing your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add both flavor and color to your meal while providing healthy nutrients.
4. Cheese Toasts: Toast topped with melted cheese adds a delightful crunch and richness that pairs beautifully with soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized appetizers filled with cheese and herbs complement the Italian theme of the dish perfectly.
6. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta dish tossed with seasonal veggies provides additional carbs without being too heavy.
7. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses creates an engaging starter before digging into the soup.
8. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries offer a unique twist that adds texture while soaking up flavors from the broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup from good to great. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin the flavor. Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality broth.

• Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoned soup can taste bland. Be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking.

• Skipping the Parmesan Rind: The parmesan rind adds depth and richness. If you have one, don’t forget to toss it in while simmering!

• Using Too Much Cream: While cream adds richness, too much can overwhelm the dish. Stick to the recipe’s amount for balance.

• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs brighten up the soup’s flavor. Always add them just before serving for the best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers and label them with the date.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warm (about 20-25 minutes).

• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

• Stovetop: Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup:

Can I use different types of tortellini?

Yes! You can use any flavor of tortellini you like, such as spinach or mushroom, to customize your soup.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup, simply omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables for protein.

What can I serve with this soup?

This delicious soup pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort on chilly evenings. Its creamy tomato broth combined with tender tortellini makes it truly irresistible. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs; it’s versatile enough to adapt to your tastes!