Chicken Sausage with Tortellini Soup is the perfect Sunday supper when the weather begins to cool down. For me, as a busy mom, wife, and dietitian, I know how important it is to have healthy meals that are also quick and easy. That’s exactly why I always recommend making a big pot of soup on Sunday. It makes a cozy, satisfying dinner to kick off the week and offers the added benefit of convenient leftovers to enjoy in the week ahead. By selecting an easy recipe, you can save valuable time while still serving a meal that’s both delicious and packed with nutrition.
One of my all-time favorites is this Italian sausage with tortellini soup. Not only does it strike the perfect balance between savory flavors and wholesome ingredients, but its simple preparation also makes it incredibly easy to whip up. Furthermore, you’ll love how effortless it is to prepare, and your family will surely enjoy the bold, satisfying flavors it delivers. So, without further delay, let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Sausage Soup Recipe
This Italian sausage with tortellini soup seamlessly combines protein-packed chicken sausage with fiber-rich vegetables, including onions, carrots, zucchini, and spinach. Furthermore, the addition of cheese tortellini enhances the dish with a rich, satisfying texture, while the lean chicken sausage keeps it hearty yet light.
In addition, by choosing Italian chicken sausage over traditional Italian pork sausage, the soup becomes lower in fat and higher in protein, without compromising its robust flavor. Adding spinach and zucchini boosts the nutritional value but also introduces a fresh, vibrant element that perfectly complements the richness of the sausage and tortellini. Finally, for those who crave a little heat, adding optional red pepper flakes provides just the right amount of spice to elevate this dish to the next level.
Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup (Serves 6)
1 TBSP Olive oil
2 tsp Minced garlic
1/2 Large white onion, chopped
2 C Carrots, chopped
1 Medium zucchini, chopped
1 lb Chicken sausage, remove from casing before cooking
2 C Baby spinach, raw
1 TBSP Italian seasoning
1 tsp Ground black pepper
1 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
6 oz Cheese tortellini (dry, not fresh pasta)
1 28 oz can of diced tomatoes with juice
4 C Low sodium chicken bone broth
2 C Water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Garlic in Oil
To begin, start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat (I use my Dutch oven) Next, add the olive oil, followed by the minced garlic. Allow the garlic to sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
2. Add the Vegetables and Sausage
After that, toss in the chopped onion and carrots, along with the chicken sausage. Now break up the sausage into bite-sized pieces using a large spoon as it cooks. Allow the mixture to sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions have softened
3. Season the Soup
Once the sausage is cooked through, add the Italian seasoning, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if like a little heat). Stir the seasonings into the sausage and vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Add Tomatoes, Stock, and Water
Pour in the diced tomatoes (along with their juice), chicken stock, and water. After that, give everything a good stir to combine. Next, bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Finally, allow the soup to cook for approximately 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
5. Add Tortellini and Zucchini
Next, add the tortellini and zucchini to the pot. Afterward, bring the soup back to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Then, allow the soup to cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the tortellini becomes tender and is fully cooked.
6. Stir in the Spinach
For the final touch, stir in the fresh spinach and let it simmer for just one more minute. The spinach will wilt quickly and add a pop of color and nutrients to the soup.
Tips for the Perfect Italian Sausage Soup
Mix up the sausage: While this recipe calls for chicken sausage because it’s leaner, you can substitute it with turkey sausage or a plant based sausage if that’s your preference.
Dry tortellini works best: Using dry tortellini ensures the pasta holds up well in the soup and doesn’t get soggy, especially if you’re planning on enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to mix and match vegetables based on what you have available. For instance, bell peppers, kale, or even mushrooms would all make excellent additions to this soup.
Why This Recipe is a Great Sunday Dinner
Making a big batch of Italian sausage and tortellini soup on Sunday is a great way to start your week strong. Not only will you enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal with family, but you’ll also have convenient leftovers for busy days. Even better, this soup is easy to reheat and tastes more flavorful as the ingredients meld together.
Plus, by using lean chicken sausage and plenty of vegetables, you’re making a nutritious choice that supports your healthy eating goals. Best of all, it’s a simple yet delicious way to nourish your family while keeping meals quick and stress-free. So, why not give it a try this Sunday and enjoy the warmth and convenience all week long?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a good side dish for tortellini soup?
A: A warm, crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad pairs perfectly with this healthy tortellini soup. Not only do they add a delicious contrast in texture, but they also make the meal more satisfying. Whether you choose bread for dipping or a salad for balance, both options enhance the flavors and complete the dish.
Q: How long does tortellini soup last in the fridge?
A: Store tortellini soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge, ensuring it stays fresh for several meals. For the best results, be sure to refrigerate leftovers promptly after serving. This way, you can easily enjoy the delicious flavors for days to come!
Q: Can you freeze this chicken sausage and tortellini soup?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months, so it’s a great meal prep option. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in the microwave for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through. That way, you can easily enjoy the delicious flavors as leftovers during busy weeks!
Chicken Sausage with Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
- 1 TBSP Olive oil
- 2 tsp Minced garlic
- 1/2 Large White onion chopped
- 2 Cups Carrots chopped
- 1 Medium Zucchini chopped
- 1 lb Chicken sausage Remove from casing before cooking
- 2 Cups Baby spinach
- 1 TBSP Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp Ground black pepper
- 1 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 6 oz Cheese tortellini Dry, not fresh
- 28 oz Diced tomato with juice
- 4 Cups Low sodium chicken bone broth
- 2 Cups Water
Instructions
- Chop your onion, carrots and zucchini, set aside.
- Remove sausage from casing and set aside.
- Heating a large pot over medium-high heat (I use my Dutch oven).
- Add the olive oil, followed by the minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add chopped onion, carrots and chicken sausage to the pan.
- Break up the sausage into bite-sized pieces using a large spoon as it cooks. Allow the mixture to sauté for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions have softened.
- Stir in Italian seasoning, ground black pepper and red pepper flakes (if like a little heat).
- Add diced tomatoes (with their juice), bone broth and water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add tortellini and zucchini. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add spinach and simmer for 1 minute. This will wilt quickly.
- Enjoy!
Nutrition
About the Author
Rachel Roberts is a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist based in Rhode Island. She is also a Certified Personal Trainer, business owner, and foodie. A mom and wife, she loves sharing her passion for health and wellness. With 20 years of experience, she makes healthy eating simple and stress-free. She believes nourishing your body should be easy and never too time consuming.
For more Dietitian-approved recipes and health tips, follow her on YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram.
Need help getting your health on track? Rachel’s team of Dietitians and Nutritionists helps people lose weight and reach their goals. Meet in person with a Nutritionist in RI. We also offer online nutrition coaching for people in RI, MA, CT, and FL. Click here to schedule a consultation. In most cases, our Nutritionists are 100% covered by health insurance.
