Name: Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 2 cups baby spinach; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a soul-soothing dish that perfectly captures the cozy flavors of fall, this Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and the natural sweetness of butternut squash, all swimming in a fragrant broth infused with thyme and fresh spinach. Each spoonful offers a comforting hug of textures and tastes that make it ideal for warming up chilly evenings or impressing friends around the dinner table. Whether you’re a longtime fan of hearty soups or just curious about seasonal twists, this recipe brings autumn right into your kitchen in the most delicious way.

A close-up view of a brown bowl full of tortellini soup, showing a rich broth with small chunks of orange carrots, green spinach leaves, and browned meat pieces spread across the soup. The tortellini pasta is light yellow with some browned spots on top, floating evenly on the surface along with bits of green herbs sprinkled all around. A spoon rests inside the bowl, slightly visible on the right side. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing this soup’s vibrant and satisfying flavor. Each item is simple but essential, offering a unique touch to the texture, color, and overall richness of the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe.

Italian sausage: Choose a quality Italian sausage with casings removed for that rich, spicy meatiness that infuses the broth.
Olive oil: A touch of olive oil helps brown the sausage and softens the vegetables while adding a subtle fruity flavor.
Medium onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed, creating a flavorful base.
Garlic cloves: Minced garlic brings a fragrant punch that lifts the whole soup.
Carrots: Peeled and sliced carrots provide natural sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
Butternut squash: Cubed and peeled, this ingredient is the star autumn vegetable that lends creaminess and a touch of sweetness.
Chicken broth: The liquid backbone of the soup, chicken broth ensures a hearty, comforting base.
Cheese tortellini: The tender pillows of cheese tortellini add a delicious, cheesy bite that makes the soup truly special.
Baby spinach: Adds vibrant green color and freshness, cooking quickly to retain texture.
Dried thyme: An earthy herb that perfectly complements the sausage and squash.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese: The finishing touch that brings nutty richness when sprinkled on top.

How to Make Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon to create small, flavorful crumbles. As it cooks, you’ll notice the wonderful aroma filling your kitchen. Cook it through until nicely browned, then remove any excess fat to keep the soup from feeling greasy. This step is crucial because the sausage sets a meaty, savory foundation.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and cubed butternut squash directly to the pot. Stir everything around for about five minutes until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. This gentle sauté helps to build layers of flavor, making your Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe even more irresistible.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth and Herbs

Pour in six cups of chicken broth, and sprinkle in the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it gently simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the butternut squash and carrots to become tender, while all the flavors meld into a comforting, aromatic broth that makes the heart happy.

Step 4: Cook the Cheese Tortellini

Now, add the cheese tortellini to your pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 5 to 7 minutes. The tortellini will plump up and become tender, creating soft pillows of cheesy goodness that perfectly soak up the savory broth.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Seasoning

Just before serving, stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the leaves are just wilted. This adds a lovely freshness and vibrant green color that brightens the soup. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to bring out all the autumn-inspired flavors.

Step 6: Serve Warm with Parmesan

Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving generously with grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch adds a nutty richness and a beautiful presentation that will make every bite feel like a warm embrace on a cool day.

How to Serve Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

While grated Parmesan cheese is a classic, consider adding a few torn fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an extra flavor burst. A grind of black pepper on top can elevate the aroma just before serving, making each bowl feel special and inviting.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic knots to scoop up the broth and catch those lingering bits of sausage and squash. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the heartiness of the soup without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve the Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe in individual soup crocks or charming mugs to create an inviting atmosphere. You can also sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top for added texture and a hint of heat, enhancing the autumnal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container to preserve its freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Because the tortellini can change texture when frozen, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini. Freeze the broth, sausage, and vegetables in a sealed container for up to three months, then add fresh tortellini when reheating.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently over medium heat on the stove to avoid overcooking the tortellini. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first. Add freshly cooked tortellini upon reheating to maintain that perfect tender bite.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage adds a distinct flavor, you can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a spicy chorizo depending on your taste preferences. Just adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is it okay to substitute fresh herbs for dried thyme?

Yes, fresh thyme can be used—just use about three times the amount of fresh compared to dried. It brings a brighter herbal note, which complements the autumn flavors nicely.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Definitely. Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add extra vegetables or some beans for protein to keep it hearty.

What can I use if I can’t find cheese tortellini?

Other stuffed pastas like ravioli work well, or even small pasta shapes such as gnocchi or mini meatballs if you want a twist on texture and flavor.

How spicy is the soup?

This recipe is mild and comforting but if you prefer a little heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or serving with a pinch sprinkled on top.

Final Thoughts

This Autumn Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe is one of those meals that makes you feel instantly at home, wrapping you in warmth and a wonderful medley of seasonal flavors. It’s straightforward to prepare, yet feels special enough for sharing with loved ones. So, grab those ingredients, fire up your stove, and let this soup become your new favorite fall ritual!