Autumn Tortellini Soup: Cozy 5-Step Dinner for Fall
Introduction
As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Autumn Tortellini Soup to warm your soul. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with the comforting essence of fall. Imagine tender tortellini swimming in a savory broth, accompanied by sweet butternut squash and robust Italian sausage. It’s a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a cozy Italian kitchen on a chilly autumn evening.
Table of Contents
Why is it Perfect for You?
This tortellini soup is the ideal choice for those seeking a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent, a culinary enthusiast, or someone looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe ticks all the boxes. It’s versatile, allowing for easy customization to suit various dietary preferences, and it’s packed with nutritious ingredients that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients List
◾ 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
◾ 1 medium onion, diced
◾ 3 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 4 cups chicken broth
◾ 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
◾ 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
◾ 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
◾ 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
◾ 1 teaspoon dried basil
◾ 1 teaspoon dried oregano
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes, Cook Time: 30 minutes, Total Time: 45 minutes, Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once the sausage is nicely browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation of our soup, infusing it with savory notes that will permeate the entire dish.
Step 2: Add Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring you scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits – this is where the flavor lives! Add the cubed butternut squash and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the squash is tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 3: Introduce the Tortellini
Once the squash is tender, it’s time to add our star ingredient – the cheese tortellini. Gently stir them into the simmering broth and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes. The tortellini will absorb the flavors of the soup while cooking, becoming little pockets of cheesy delight.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Stir in the chopped spinach, dried basil, and oregano. Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and becomes a vibrant green. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors to your liking. Remember, the sausage and broth already contain salt, so taste before adding more.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle your Autumn Tortellini Soup into bowls and garnish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt slightly, adding a final layer of richness to your creation. Serve immediately, perhaps with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and savor the warmth and comfort of this perfect autumn meal.
Nutritional Information
This hearty soup is not just delicious but also nutritious. It’s rich in proteins from the sausage and cheese, provides carbohydrates from the tortellini, and offers a good dose of vitamins from the vegetables. The butternut squash is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, while spinach adds iron and fiber to the mix.
Calories per Person
Each serving of this tortellini soup contains approximately 450-500 calories, making it a satisfying main course that won’t derail your diet.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork, or opt for a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more squash or introducing other fall vegetables like carrots or pumpkin. For a lower-carb option, replace some of the tortellini with additional vegetables or use a whole-grain pasta variety.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a meal in itself, but you can elevate your dining experience by pairing it with a crisp fall salad or a slice of rustic bread. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, serve it as a primo piatto followed by a light main course like grilled chicken or fish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this Autumn Tortellini Soup, avoid overcooking the tortellini – they should remain al dente. Also, be careful not to oversalt the soup, as the sausage and broth already contain sodium. Lastly, add the spinach at the end to preserve its nutrients and vibrant color.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water as the pasta tends to absorb liquid. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the tortellini and add fresh pasta when reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables or plant-based protein for a heartier meal.
What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese tortellini is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other flavors like spinach or mushroom tortellini for variety.
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Absolutely! Frozen squash can be a great time-saver. Just adjust the cooking time as it may cook faster than fresh squash.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes to taste or use hot Italian sausage instead of mild for an extra kick.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the tortellini and add fresh pasta when reheating to maintain the best texture.
Conclusion
Autumn Tortellini Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of the season’s flavors wrapped in the comfort of Italian cuisine. With its perfect balance of hearty and healthy ingredients, this soup is sure to become a fall favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a bowl of pure autumn comfort.
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OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
