Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy meal that wraps you in the flavors of the season, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is exactly what you need. Bursting with tender sausage, sweet butternut squash, and pillowy cheese tortellini swimming in a fragrant broth, this soup perfectly captures the essence of fall in every spoonful. It’s comforting, colorful, and simple enough to make any weeknight feel special while satisfying those chilly-weather cravings like a warm hug from a dear friend.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage plays an essential role, from the savory sausage bringing richness to the sweet, velvety squash adding body, to the fresh spinach lending a pop of color and nutrients. These simple components come together beautifully to create a soup that tastes much more complex than the effort it takes to make.

• Italian sausage (1 lb): Provides a hearty, savory base with a wonderful depth of flavor; removing the casing ensures a perfect crumble.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the sausage evenly and adds a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
• Medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and forms the flavor foundation when sautéed.
• Garlic cloves, minced (2): Imparts aromatics that awaken the entire soup.
• Carrots (2, sliced): Bring a gentle natural sweetness and a bit of texture contrast.
• Butternut squash (2 cups, peeled and cubed): This star autumn vegetable adds creamy sweetness and lovely color.
• Chicken broth (6 cups): Creates a savory soup base that carries all the flavors.
• Cheese tortellini (9 oz package): Adds bite-sized comfort and cheesy goodness.
• Baby spinach (2 cups): Offers a fresh, earthy pop and delicate texture.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle herbal note that complements the sausage and vegetables.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the best in each ingredient.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: The perfect finishing touch, melting on top to add richness and umami.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step builds the savory backbone of the soup — don’t rush it! If there’s too much fat, gently remove some, so the broth stays balanced.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash. Sauté everything for about five minutes. You’ll notice the onions turn translucent and the garlic release a mouthwatering aroma — these softened veggies start layering flavor and bring sweetness and texture.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup Base

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the thyme, stirring gently. Bring the soup up to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes or until the squash and carrots are tender and the broth tastes infused with all those wonderful ingredients.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini directly into the simmering soup. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually between five and seven minutes, until the pasta is al dente and perfectly tender. The tortellini soak up some broth flavor while releasing the cheesy filling inside.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning

Stir in the baby spinach and let it wilt gently in the hot soup for a minute or two. This adds a fresh green note and a slight crunch to the dish. Now is the time to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference.

Step 6: Serve with Parmesan

Ladle your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage into warm bowls and top generously with grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese melts slowly into the hot broth, adding a gorgeous savory finish that keeps you coming back for more.

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Garnishes

Try garnishing with extra fresh thyme sprigs or chopped parsley to add a vibrant herbal accent. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate each spoonful, adding a touch of richness or mild heat.

Side Dishes

This soup is wonderfully filling, but pairing it with crusty bread or garlic knots will take your meal to the next level by offering a perfect vehicle to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad dressed with apple cider vinaigrette pairs nicely, adding crispness and brightness to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls that showcase the vibrant colors — the orange squash, deep green spinach, and golden sausage bits are so inviting. For autumn gatherings, offer toppings on the side such as toasted pumpkin seeds, dollops of crème fraîche, or crushed walnuts for extra texture and seasonal flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Parmesan cheese separate and add fresh just before serving to maintain its flavor and texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but because tortellini can get a little mushy, consider freezing the broth and sausage mixture separately without the pasta or spinach. When ready to enjoy, thaw and cook fresh tortellini and wilt spinach into the reheated soup for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Add extra fresh spinach during reheating to revive that bright, tender element.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and works nicely here, though the flavor will be a bit milder. Consider seasoning a bit more with herbs or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra punch.

Is butternut squash mandatory for this recipe?

While butternut squash adds sweetness and a creamy texture, you can swap it for other fall veggies like sweet potatoes or pumpkin. Each will bring their own unique character, keeping the soup seasonal and delicious.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Certainly! Replace sausage with hearty mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This keeps things comforting and still full of flavor without the meat.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Try adding red pepper flakes during the sauté step or a dash of hot smoked paprika to the broth. You could also top with a spicy chili oil to drizzle on bowls before serving.

What type of cheese tortellini works best?

Fresh or frozen cheese tortellini both work well. Choose a quality brand with a simple cheese filling, such as ricotta and Parmesan, to complement the flavors rather than overpower them.

Final Thoughts

The Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage is one of those magical dishes that feels special but comes together effortlessly. It’s hearty, full of season-inspired ingredients, and filled with layers of flavor that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is the cozy, colorful bowl of comfort you want on a crisp autumn day — give it a try and see how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your seasonal recipe collection!

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