Description
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and vibrant greens. Perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
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1 pound sweet Italian sausage
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Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, depending on sausage fat content)
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1 sweet onion, diced
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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2½ cups cubed butternut squash
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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14 ounces diced fire-roasted tomatoes
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1 parmesan rind
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4 to 5 cups chicken stock
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¾ cup heavy cream
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3 cups chopped kale or spinach
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8 to 12 ounces cheese tortellini
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Parmesan cheese, for topping
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Crushed red pepper, for topping
Instructions
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In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
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Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
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Stir in the cubed butternut squash and tomato paste, cooking for a few minutes until the squash begins to soften.
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Add the diced fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken stock, and parmesan rind. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender.
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Stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale or spinach, and cheese tortellini. Continue to simmer until the tortellini are cooked through.
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Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste.
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Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving
Notes
For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper.
Feel free to substitute spinach for kale or vice versa, depending on your preference.
If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup before adding the tortellini.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian