Name: Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 cups baby spinach; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 66 reviews

If you’re craving a bowl that perfectly captures the essence of the season, the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe is your go-to comfort meal. This soup marries the cozy flavors of savory Italian sausage with tender butternut squash, vibrant spinach, and cheesy tortellini, all swimming in a fragrant herb-infused broth. Each spoonful bursts with warmth and hearty goodness that feels like a hug in a bowl, making it an ideal choice for crisp fall evenings and family dinners alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows many ingredients laid out on a white marbled surface. There is a white plate in the top left with a square block of raw ground meat, and below it is a white bowl filled with uncooked tortellini that are pale yellow and shaped like small rings. To the right of the tortellini, there is a white bowl with chopped white onions, and next to it a smaller white bowl with diced red bell peppers. Above this bowl is a small clear glass holding cubed orange carrots. In the center of the image, a white bowl contains bright red diced tomatoes in sauce. Above that are two small wooden bowls holding dried oregano and black pepper. Towards the top right, a white bowl is filled with green leafy kale. Below the kale, a small white round dish holds a bay leaf, next to which is a small bowl with minced yellow garlic. A larger clear glass cup filled with bright yellow-orange liquid, likely broth, is near the center. Several small containers with chopped green herbs, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and grated cheese complete the layout. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step towards making this soup truly memorable. Each element plays a key role, from the rich Italian sausage that adds depth, to the sweet butternut squash that lends a velvety texture and mellow flavor. Fresh spinach brings a pop of color and a healthy green boost, while the cheese tortellini gives the soup that luxurious, comforting bite. Here’s everything you need to create this delicious dish:

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed: Choose your favorite blend for a rich, savory base.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and adds a silky texture.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed perfectly.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings fragrant warmth and complexity.
2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and crunch.
2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed: Provides creamy texture and autumnal color.
6 cups chicken broth: Acts as the flavorful, savory liquid foundation.
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini: The star ingredient for tender, cheesy bites.
2 cups baby spinach: Adds freshness and nutritional balance.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Lends earthy herbal notes that harmonize the soup.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors together.
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving: A final touch of savory umami delight.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step is crucial because the browned bits that form add incredible flavor to the soup’s base. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it to keep the soup from feeling greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and release their natural sweetness. This gentle cooking draws out layers of flavor that will truly transform the soup.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften completely and the thyme to infuse its magic into the broth.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Once the vegetables are tender, carefully add the cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, typically around 5-7 minutes, until the tortellini are pillowy and tender. This step is where the soup starts to feel incredibly hearty and satisfying.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Season

Just before serving, stir in the fresh baby spinach. Let it wilt gently for 1 to 2 minutes, adding a vibrant green splash and a fresh taste that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese. Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to your preference.

Step 6: Serve with Parmesan

Ladle the soup into bowls and generously sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan melts slightly into the hot soup, adding an irresistible savory finish that you’ll wish you could bottle!

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

A close-up of a white bowl filled with a rich soup containing about eight yellow tortellini pieces floating near the surface. The soup has a light brown broth with small clumps of cooked ground meat scattered throughout. There are fresh green spinach leaves and some red tomato chunks spread evenly in the soup. On top, there is a sprinkle of grated white cheese and small bits of black pepper. A silver spoon is partly submerged in the soup on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe by topping it with freshly chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and give it a fresh twist.

Side Dishes

This soup is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic knots to soak up every last drop of that luscious broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the soup’s richness without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls. This not only looks stunning but also adds an autumnal charm that guests will love. Garnishing each bowl with a sprig of fresh thyme elevates the presentation and complements the soup’s herbal notes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more satisfying. Just be sure to keep the Parmesan separate to maintain its texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but to keep the tortellini from becoming mushy, consider freezing the broth and sausage mixture separately from the tortellini and spinach. When ready to eat, thaw and heat the broth first, then add fresh or thawed tortellini and spinach at the end.

Reheating

Reheat your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. If the soup seems too thick after refrigeration, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and restore that perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still adds plenty of flavor. Just be mindful that the cooking time might be slightly less since turkey sausage tends to cook faster.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add hearty vegetables or beans to increase protein and texture, ensuring the soup stays satisfying.

Can I substitute frozen butternut squash for fresh?

Frozen butternut squash works perfectly and can save prep time. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing, and adjust cooking time to ensure the cubes become tender.

How do I prevent the tortellini from overcooking?

Adding the tortellini toward the end of cooking and following the package instructions closely helps prevent overcooking. Keep an eye on the texture; once they float and are tender, it’s time to remove the soup from heat.

What’s the best way to reheat without losing flavor?

Gently warm the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can cause uneven warming and rubbery tortellini. Adding a little broth during reheating can freshen the flavors.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe enough for cozy nights when you want something both hearty and comforting. It’s an effortless yet impressive dish that welcomes friends and family around the table with its inviting aroma and vibrant flavors. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with this autumnal classic that feels like home in every spoonful.