One Pot Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

I just made this one pot Italian sausage tortellini soup and oh my gosh, it’s like a warm Italian hug in a bowl!

I was scrolling through my pantry earlier feeling totally uninspired about dinner, but then I spotted that package of tortellini I forgot I had and suddenly everything clicked.

The amazing thing is how all those flavors come together in just one pot – the spicy Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and that rich tomato broth with all the perfect herbs and spices.

I’ve been slurping this soup for the past hour and I’m already planning to make a bigger batch next time because there’s no way this is lasting more than two days in my house!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one pot tortellini soup is the ultimate comfort food that delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup – everything cooks together in one pot, so you’re not stuck washing a million dishes!

It’s incredibly hearty and satisfying with protein-packed Italian sausage and cheese-filled tortellini that make it feel like a complete meal rather than just soup.

You’ll love how quick it comes together on busy weeknights, but it tastes like something that simmered for hours with those deep, rich Italian flavors.

Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep since it reheats beautifully and actually gets even more flavorful the next day, making it ideal for easy lunches or those nights when you just want to heat and eat something delicious!

What You’ll Need

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
2 tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
3 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Fresh basil, for garnish

Pro Tips

Brown the sausage well. This adds depth of flavor to the broth.
Don’t overcook the tortellini. Add it at the very end so it stays tender and cheesy.
Use half-and-half for lighter soup. Heavy cream makes it rich, but half-and-half still gives creaminess.
Adjust the spice. Use hot sausage or extra red pepper flakes if you like heat.
Serve with bread. A crusty baguette or garlic bread makes this soup next-level cozy.

Tools You’ll Need

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Sharp knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle for serving

Substitutions and Variations

Protein: Swap sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even meatballs.
Tortellini: Use spinach and ricotta tortellini or even ravioli for a fun twist.
Veggies: Add zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Broth: Vegetable broth works for a lighter base.
Dairy-free: Use coconut milk instead of cream and skip the Parmesan.

Make-Ahead Tips

Cook the sausage and base ahead of time, then cool and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
Add tortellini and spinach just before serving so they don’t get mushy.
This soup also freezes well if you leave out the tortellini. Just add fresh pasta when reheating.
Store leftovers in individual containers for quick grab-and-go lunches.

How to Make One Pot Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Brown the sausage

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add aromatics

Stir in onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Build the broth

Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add cream

Pour in heavy cream and stir. Let soup simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Add tortellini and spinach

Stir in cheese tortellini and cook for 4–6 minutes, or until just tender. Add spinach and cook until wilted.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve with bread on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or Caprese salad.
Serve with garlic bread, breadsticks, or focaccia for dipping.
Add a glass of red wine like Chianti for a cozy dinner.
Finish with tiramisu or biscotti for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Leftovers & Storage

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze without tortellini for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Nutrition & Benefits

This soup is hearty and comforting, but it’s also well-balanced.

The sausage gives protein, the spinach adds vitamins and minerals, and the tortellini provides satisfying carbs.

Using olive oil and tomatoes adds heart-healthy antioxidants, making this indulgent soup feel wholesome too.

Recipe FAQ

1. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes—brown the sausage first, then cook everything (except tortellini and spinach) on low for 6 hours. Add tortellini and spinach 20 minutes before serving.

2. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Absolutely—just add 2–3 extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. How do I make it lighter?

Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

4. Can I use kale instead of spinach?

Yes—just chop it finely and let it simmer longer so it softens.

5. Can I make it vegetarian?

Swap sausage for white beans or lentils and use veggie broth.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes—this soup doubles well and is great for feeding a crowd.

7. How do I keep tortellini from getting mushy in leftovers?

Cook the pasta separately and add to bowls before ladling in the hot soup.

Cozy, Hearty, and So Easy

This one pot Italian sausage tortellini soup is everything I want in a comforting dinner—rich, hearty, and full of flavor, but still easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. It’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and just plain delicious.

Whether you’re making it for a simple weeknight meal or serving it to friends, it’s guaranteed to become one of those recipes you’ll make again and again.