Warm up with this hearty Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup featuring savory Italian sausage, cheese-filled tortellini, and a medley of fresh greens. This one-pot wonder combines the richness of a creamy tomato base with the wholesome goodness of kale and spinach, making it a comforting meal perfect for any day.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
½ cup diced yellow onion (¼” dice)
1 tablespoon minced garlic
½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes (San Marzano recommended)
3 cups chicken stock or broth
⅓ cup heavy cream
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
9 ounces cheese tortellini
2 cups chopped kale (curly or Tuscan, ¼” strips)
2 cups baby spinach
2 tablespoons sliced fresh basil
¼ cup shaved Parmesan cheese

Directions

Cook the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
Sauté the Alliums: Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, approximately 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer over low heat for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cook the Tortellini: Increase heat to medium-low, add the cheese tortellini, and cook until al dente, about 4–6 minutes.
Add the Greens: Stir in chopped kale and baby spinach, cooking until the leaves are wilted, approximately 2–3 minutes.
Incorporate the Cream: Turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream, kosher salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced fresh basil and shaved Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 701 kcal
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 47 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg
Sodium: 1,747 mg
Potassium: 1,056 mg
Fiber: 6 g
Sugar: 8 g
Vitamin A: 5,258 IU
Vitamin C: 57 mg
Calcium: 399 mg
Iron: 6 mg

The Origins of Tuscan Cuisine

Tuscan cuisine, one of Italy’s most famous and beloved culinary traditions, is known for its simplicity, use of fresh ingredients, and robust flavors. The food culture of Tuscany reflects the region’s rural history, with an emphasis on hearty, wholesome dishes that can feed a family. Over time, these dishes have been elevated to culinary staples, thanks to their balance of flavor and nutritional value.

Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup is no exception to this tradition, with its use of fresh vegetables, high-quality sausage, and pasta. The dish incorporates ingredients that are often found in classic Tuscan meals, such as tomatoes, garlic, and fresh greens. The addition of tortellini, a type of pasta traditionally stuffed with cheese or meat, gives this soup a luxurious feel that makes it stand out from other soups.

Why This Soup Works So Well

What makes Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage so special is the combination of flavors and textures. The creamy tomato base provides a smooth and comforting foundation, while the savory sausage adds a depth of flavor. The tortellini, with its rich cheese filling, acts as both a pasta and a flavor-packed bite in each spoonful.

The vegetables, like spinach and kale, contribute a burst of freshness and color, creating a well-rounded and nourishing meal. The broth itself is a delicate balance of cream and chicken stock, resulting in a soup that’s not too heavy but still rich enough to feel satisfying. This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors but prefer the comfort of a classic, easy-to-make soup.

Health Benefits of Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it’s also packed with a variety of health benefits. The inclusion of vegetables like spinach and kale provides a generous dose of vitamins and minerals. Kale, for example, is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin K, and antioxidants, which help support a healthy immune system and promote overall well-being. Spinach, on the other hand, is rich in iron, which is essential for healthy blood circulation and energy production.

The Italian sausage, while adding a rich and savory flavor to the soup, also offers protein that helps build and repair tissues in the body. The cheese-filled tortellini provides an additional source of calcium and protein, making this soup not just satisfying, but also nourishing.

The tomato-based broth is an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain types of cancer. Additionally, the olive oil used in the recipe adds healthy fats that are known to support heart health and improve cholesterol levels.

Perfect Pairings for Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup

Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage can be enjoyed as a standalone dish, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a lighter meal, consider serving the soup with a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. The fresh, crisp greens will complement the rich flavors of the soup and provide a nice contrast in texture.

Another great option is to serve the soup with crusty Italian bread. A warm, rustic loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth, making every bite more satisfying. If you’re looking for a more indulgent pairing, garlic bread or cheesy focaccia would be a delicious accompaniment.

For those who enjoy wine, a glass of red wine would pair wonderfully with this soup. A medium-bodied red, such as Chianti or Sangiovese, will enhance the flavors of the sausage and tomatoes without overpowering the dish. If you prefer white wine, a crisp, dry option like Pinot Grigio will provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

Serving Suggestions for Special Occasions

Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage is a great dish for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers with friends. Its hearty and filling nature makes it ideal for colder months, but it can also be served year-round for a comforting meal.

For special occasions, consider serving the soup in individual bowls, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprig of basil. You can also create a soup bar with various toppings, such as croutons, shredded mozzarella, and extra sausage, allowing your guests to customize their bowls according to their preferences.

If you’re hosting a more formal dinner, this soup can serve as a starter before the main course. Its rich, complex flavors will whet the appetite and set the tone for the rest of the meal. For a complete Italian-inspired dinner, serve the soup alongside a fresh Caprese salad, followed by a classic pasta dish like spaghetti Bolognese or lasagna.

Making It Ahead of Time

One of the best things about Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage is that it can be made ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on busy days. In fact, the soup’s flavors tend to improve after sitting for a few hours, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully.

To make the soup ahead of time, simply follow the recipe up to the point where the tortellini is added. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat and add the tortellini, cooking it until al dente. Add the cream and greens just before serving to maintain their freshness.

For even longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove, adding the tortellini and cream as you would if making it fresh.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic version of this soup is a winner, there are many ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:

Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian twist, omit the Italian sausage and replace it with plant-based sausage or simply use additional vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add a can of cannellini beans for extra protein and fiber.
Spicy Option: If you like a little heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also opt for spicy Italian sausage to give the soup an extra kick.
Creamier Soup: For an even creamier texture, add more heavy cream or a splash of half-and-half. You can also use a combination of cream cheese and broth for a velvety finish.
Meat Lovers Version: If you’re a fan of hearty meats, consider adding bacon or pancetta for extra flavor. The smoky richness of these meats will complement the sausage and tortellini beautifully.

Conclusion

Tuscan Tomato Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage is a dish that offers comfort, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this soup is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its combination of rich tomato broth, savory sausage, creamy tortellini, and fresh greens, it delivers a satisfying meal in every bowl.

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