Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Welcome to a hearty, warming recipe perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings! If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table, you’ve come to the right place. This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is sure to become a favorite with its creamy texture, savory sausage, and delicate tortellini. It’s one of those meals that wraps you in warmth, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions with loved ones.

I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Let’s dive into all the delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This soup comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
• Family-friendly: With its rich flavors and creamy texture, everyone will want seconds!
• Comforting and nutritious: Packed with wholesome ingredients like butternut squash, this soup warms both the heart and body.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare this soup in advance, saving time when you need it most.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients makes cooking fun and easy! For this Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that are packed with flavor.

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed

For Flavoring

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

For Creaminess

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini

To Season

• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Variations

The beauty of this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage for a lighter option.
• Add greens: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Make it vegetarian: Replace sausage with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious plant-based version.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce!

How to Make Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Breaking it up as it cooks ensures it’s evenly browned and flavorsome. This step is key to building the savory base of your soup!

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent—about 3 minutes. This process brings out their natural sweetness, adding depth to your soup.

Step 3: Add Broth and Squash

Pour in the chicken broth and turn up the heat until it reaches a boil. Then add in your cubed butternut squash along with thyme, sage, and red pepper flakes. Reduce the heat to simmer and let everything cook until the squash is tender—approximately 15-20 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Blend Until Smooth

Once the squash is tender, use a hand blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one handy, carefully transfer batches into a blender. Blending creates that creamy texture we all love!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Tortellini

Now stir in heavy cream and cheese tortellini. Cook everything together until the tortellini are tender—about 5-7 minutes. This is where your soup transforms into something truly comforting!

Step 6: Season & Serve

Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you achieve the best results!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh butternut squash and herbs will enhance the flavor of your soup, making it more vibrant and delicious.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with coconut milk for a dairy-free option that adds a lovely sweetness.
• Customize Your Sausage: Feel free to experiment with different types of Italian sausage (like turkey or chicken) for varied flavors while keeping it leaner.
• Blend to Your Liking: For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is. This gives you a heartier bite while still enjoying that creamy base.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight for an easy meal that’s ready when you are.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Serving your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this comforting dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shaving some Parmesan on top provides a savory finish that complements the creamy soup perfectly.
• Croutons: Crispy croutons offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the smooth texture of the soup.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, making every bite a flavorful experience.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring extra nutrients and flavor, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
• Cheese Quesadillas: Quick and easy cheese quesadillas can be cut into triangles for dipping or pairing with your soup for added satisfaction.

With these serving suggestions, your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup will not only taste great but also look inviting on your table. Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and enjoy it over the week. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If separating tortellini, it can help maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Consider freezing tortellini separately to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this comforting dish:

Can I use other types of sausage for the Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or a plant-based alternative based on your preference. Each will lend a unique flavor profile while keeping the essence of this cozy soup.

How can I make the Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe healthier?

You can reduce the amount of heavy cream or use a lighter alternative like coconut milk. Additionally, adding more vegetables like spinach or kale can enhance its nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap out the sausage for a plant-based version and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The butternut squash will still provide that creamy texture you love!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup as I am! It’s a special recipe that not only warms your soul but also fills your home with delightful aromas. Whether you’re serving it at dinner or enjoying it as leftovers, this dish is sure to bring comfort and joy. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share it with family and friends!