Pin A hearty comforting soup featuring spicy Italian sausage sweet potatoes and cheese tortellini all simmered in an herby creamy broth and finished with fresh spinach for a satisfying meal on chilly evenings.
This soup quickly became a family favorite especially on cold days when we crave something warm and filling.
Ingredients
- Sausage and Seasoning: 12 oz (340 g) spicy Italian sausage crumbled 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked) 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (plus more to taste)
- Vegetables and Flavorings: 1 large sweet potato (about 12 oz / 340 g) peeled and cubed (or 2 small sweet potatoes) 5 cloves garlic minced 1 tablespoon tomato paste 4 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme) 4 oz (115 g) fresh spinach
- Liquids and Pasta: 6 cups water 8 oz (225 g) refrigerated three-cheese tortellini 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large high-sided pot over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook stirring frequently until browned and cooked through about 5 7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
- Step 2:
- Sprinkle cooked sausage with Italian seasoning and paprika. Stir well to coat.
- Step 3:
- Add cubed sweet potatoes minced garlic red pepper flakes and tomato paste. Mix thoroughly to combine.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the water. Increase heat and bring to a boil stirring to dissolve the tomato paste.
- Step 5:
- Once boiling reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.
- Step 6:
- Add the tortellini to the soup. Cover and cook at a gentle boil for 10 minutes or according to package instructions until pasta is just tender.
- Step 7:
- Stir in fresh spinach and cook until just wilted about 1 minute.
- Step 8:
- Remove the pot from heat. Gently stir in the heavy cream until fully incorporated.
- Step 9:
- Season to taste with salt (if needed) and additional red pepper flakes for extra heat. Top with fresh thyme before serving.
Pin This recipe often brings the family together around the table sharing stories and warmth from the first spoonful.
Required Tools
Large high-sided pot with lid Cutting board and knife Wooden spoon or spatula Ladle Measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (tortellini) Milk (tortellini heavy cream) Egg (tortellini possibly sausage) May contain Soy (check sausage and tortellini labels) Sulfites (in sausage) If in doubt double-check all ingredient packaging for allergen information.
Nutritional Information
Calories ~410 Total Fat 25 g Carbohydrates 28 g Protein 16 g per serving
Pin This soup is a delicious easy meal that can be customized to your taste and always comforts the soul.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use frozen tortellini for this dish?
Yes, frozen tortellini can be used. Just follow package instructions for cooking time when adding to the simmering broth.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to taste or use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy for a milder flavor.
- → What can I substitute for fresh thyme?
If fresh thyme isn’t available, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme as a substitute without losing much flavor.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance and frozen. Omit the cream before freezing and add it when reheating for best results.
- → What sides pair well with this creamy tortellini dish?
Crusty bread or a simple green salad complement this hearty, creamy meal perfectly.