Cozy Butternut Sausage Tortellini Soup

As the seasons shift and the air takes on a chill, nothing comforts quite like a warm bowl of homemade soup. This Butternut Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect blend of hearty, creamy, and savory—designed to warm you from the inside out. Combining the richness of sweet Italian sausage with tender butternut squash, leafy greens, and pillowy cheese tortellini, this soup delivers layers of flavor and texture in every spoonful. Fire-roasted tomatoes and a touch of heavy cream give it depth and smoothness, while a parmesan rind subtly infuses every simmering minute with umami goodness.

Not only is this soup delicious, it’s also surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches for the week, or cozying up for a solo night in, this dish delivers on convenience without compromising on flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that comes together easily but tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. Topped with freshly grated parmesan and a hint of crushed red pepper for kick, it’s comfort food that feels elevated, yet approachable. Once you try this Butternut Sausage Tortellini Soup, it just might become your new cold-weather go-to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Filling: Packed with sausage, tortellini, and butternut squash, it’s a full meal in one comforting bowl.
2. Perfect for Cold Weather: Warm, rich, and creamy—ideal for chilly nights.
3. One-Pot Simplicity: Minimal cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
4. Flavor-Packed: Fire-roasted tomatoes, parmesan rind, and garlic add depth and richness.
5. Customizable: Easily adapted to fit your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

• Sweet Italian sausage
• Kosher salt
• Ground black pepper
• Olive oil
• Sweet onion
• Garlic cloves
• Butternut squash (cubed)
• Tomato paste
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Parmesan rind
• Chicken stock
• Heavy cream
• Kale or spinach (chopped)
• Cheese tortellini
• Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Crushed red pepper flakes (for topping)

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable stock; add white beans or mushrooms for heartiness.
• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add more red pepper flakes.
• Different Greens: Swap kale or spinach with Swiss chard or arugula.
• Low-Dairy: Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-light version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or substitute with rice or gluten-free pasta.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sweet Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove the sausage and set aside. If needed, drain excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add olive oil if the pot is dry. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Squash and Tomato Paste

Stir in the cubed butternut squash and tomato paste. Cook for a couple of minutes to let the tomato paste deepen in flavor.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, add the parmesan rind, and return the sausage to the pot. Add chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Let it cook until the squash is tender, about 15–20 minutes.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Greens

Remove the parmesan rind. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale or spinach. Cook until greens are wilted.

Step 6: Add Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until tender.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle soup into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use pre-cut butternut squash to save time.
• Don’t skip the parmesan rind—it adds incredible depth of flavor.
• Add tortellini just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Simmer gently to keep cream from curdling.
• Taste and adjust seasoning at the end—sausage can be salty.

How to Serve

Serve this soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper. A slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad makes it a complete meal. It’s equally great for dinner or meal-prepped lunches throughout the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the soup before adding the tortellini and cream. Reheat and add tortellini and cream fresh to avoid sogginess and separation.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, omit the sausage and use vegetable stock. Add beans or mushrooms for substance.

2. Can I use frozen butternut squash?

Absolutely. It’s a great time-saver and works well in this recipe.

3. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Try half-and-half, whole milk, or coconut milk for a lighter version.

4. Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes. Make the base soup in advance and add tortellini just before serving.

5. Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, but freeze before adding cream and tortellini for best texture.

6. Can I use dried tortellini?

Yes, but cooking time will be longer. Follow the package instructions.

7. What’s a parmesan rind, and is it necessary?

It’s the hard end of a parmesan block. It adds deep umami flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.

8. Can I use a different sausage?

Sure! Try spicy Italian, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives.

9. Is it spicy?

Not inherently. Add more crushed red pepper for heat.

10. How can I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or mash a few squash cubes into the broth.

Conclusion

Butternut Sausage Tortellini Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to throw together. With its rich broth, hearty ingredients, and flexible nature, it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen—especially on those cold nights when comfort is the top priority. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this soup delivers on every level. Give it a try—you’ll be glad you did.

Print