Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup

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Abigail Zysk (@poultryraptor)

A hearty and creamy soup featuring chicken sausage, spinach, and cheese tortellini, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time
15min
Cook Time
30min
Total Time
45min
Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup recipe

Ingredients

6 Servings
(1 serving = 1 bowl)
  • 1tbsp
    olive oil
  • 1lb
    chicken sausage, casing removed or diced chicken sausage links
  • 3clove
    garlic, minced
  • 1piece
    medium sweet onion, diced
  • 2tsp
    Italian seasoning
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2tbsp
    all-purpose flour
  • 4cups
    chicken stock
  • 8oz
    can tomato sauce
  • 3in
    Parmesan rind (optional)
  • 9oz
    package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
  • 4cups
    fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • 2oz
    cream cheese
  • 3tbsp
    chopped fresh basil
  • Grated Parmesan for serving (optional)

How to make Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup

Cook the Chicken Sausage

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

  2. Add the chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. If using pre-cooked sausage, just heat through.

    Step 1.1: Add the chicken sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes

Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Stir in garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning.

    Step 2.1: Stir in garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning
  2. Cook until onions are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.

  3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Create the Soup Base

  1. Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute.

    Step 3.1: Sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for about 1 minute
  2. Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to prevent lumps.

    Step 3.1: Gradually pour in the chicken stock while stirring to prevent lumps

Simmer the Soup

  1. Add tomato sauce and Parmesan rind, if using.

    Step 4.1: Add tomato sauce and Parmesan rind, if using
    Step 4.2: Add tomato sauce and Parmesan rind, if using
  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors.

    Step 4.1: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 10 minutes to develop flavors

Cook the Tortellini & Spinach

  1. Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes.

    Step 5.1: Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-5 minutes
  2. Add the spinach in the last 2 minutes, allowing it to wilt.

    Step 5.1: Add the spinach in the last 2 minutes, allowing it to wilt

Finish with Cream & Basil

  1. Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese.

  2. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until creamy and well combined.

  3. Remove Parmesan rind and discard.

Serve & Enjoy

  1. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil.

  2. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour.

  2. The Parmesan rind adds depth to the soup, but it's optional.

  3. Microwave the cream cheese for 30 seconds before hand to melt it a bit. It helps it mix into the soup better.

FAQS

  1. How do I make Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup from scratch?

    To make Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup, start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken sausage and cook until browned. Then, stir in minced garlic, diced onion, and Italian seasoning, cooking until the onions are soft. Sprinkle in flour, gradually add chicken stock, and mix well. Incorporate tomato sauce and Parmesan rind, bring to a boil, then simmer. Add tortellini and spinach, cooking until the tortellini is tender. Finally, stir in cream cheese for creaminess, and serve garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan.

  2. Is Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup suitable for gluten-free diets?

    This Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup is not gluten-free as it contains all-purpose flour and traditional tortellini, which typically includes wheat. However, you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free flour as a thickener and substituting regular tortellini with gluten-free tortellini available in stores.

  3. What can I substitute for chicken sausage in this tortellini soup recipe?

    If you want to substitute chicken sausage in the Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup, you can use ground turkey, Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you choose.

  4. How should I store leftover Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup?

    To store leftover Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Just be aware that the tortellini may become softer when reheated after freezing.

  5. What are some good side dishes to pair with Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup?

    Creamy Chicken Sausage & Spinach Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad, garlic bread, or a warm baguette. You can also serve it with a light antipasto platter featuring olives, cheeses, and cured meats for a complete meal experience.

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Abigail Zysk

(@poultryraptor)

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