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Hearty Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach – A Cozy 30-Minute Dinner

As autumn leaves begin to fall and the evenings turn crisp, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of soup. This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is the ultimate fall-inspired dish, combining smoky chicken sausage, cheesy tortellini, fresh spinach, and a flavorful broth that will warm you from the inside out. What makes this soup so special is its ability to balance heartiness with freshness. The tortellini adds a rich, cheesy bite, the sausage brings savory depth, and the spinach brightens everything with a burst of green. Best of all, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. This recipe is family-friendly, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile—you can adapt it with your favorite vegetables, adjust the seasonings, or make it creamier depending on your mood.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For about 6 servings:
Protein:
  • 1 lb chicken sausage sliced into rounds
Vegetables & Aromatics:
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 carrots sliced
  • 2 celery stalks sliced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
Pasta:
  • 10 oz cheese tortellini refrigerated or frozen
Broth & Seasoning:
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
Oil & Additions:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Grated Parmesan optional topping

Equipment

  • You don’t need anything fancy to whip up this autumn soup:
  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon (for stirring)
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle for serving
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Garlic press for fresh garlic
  • Soup bowls that keep heat longer

Method
 

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics & Sausage
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chicken sausage slices and cook until browned (5–6 minutes).
  3. Stir in onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
  1. Pour in the chicken broth.
  2. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
Step 3: Add Tortellini
  1. Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (about 5–7 minutes).
Step 4: Add Spinach
  1. Stir in fresh spinach just before serving.
  2. Let it wilt gently into the hot broth.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
  1. Ladle soup into bowls. Top with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan, if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Best to freeze without the tortellini, as pasta can get mushy. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently in a pot over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed.
🥄 Variations
Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer soup.
Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with white beans or chickpeas.
More Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for variety.
Spicy Kick: Use spicy chicken sausage or add more chili flakes.
Herb Boost: Fresh basil or thyme can be added at the end for extra aroma.
❓ 10 FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
2. Can I make this with turkey sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage works just as well.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free.
4. Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace sausage with beans and use vegetable broth.
5. Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, but chicken broth gives a lighter flavor.
6. How do I prevent mushy tortellini?
Cook tortellini just until al dente and avoid over-simmering.
7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prep veggies and sausage in advance. Add tortellini and spinach just before serving.
8. What cheese is best for topping?
Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano works perfectly.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
10. What side dishes go well with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a light green salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Autumn Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach is the perfect cozy bowl to keep you warm all season long. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that feels both hearty and nourishing. The combination of cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and vibrant spinach makes this soup irresistible for the whole family.
So grab your soup pot, get those ingredients ready, and enjoy a comforting autumn meal that tastes like home.