This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup brings a perfect balance of creamy texture, savory depth, and tender tortellini. The natural sweetness of butternut squash, paired with the robust flavor of Italian sausage, creates a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. Ideal for a chilly evening, this soup is a satisfying meal on its own or as a starter for a larger gathering. The cheese-filled tortellini adds an indulgent touch, making it a dish everyone will love. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread for the ultimate cozy experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 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
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon ground sage
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add butternut squash, thyme, sage, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the squash is tender.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or in batches with a traditional blender.
- Stir in heavy cream and tortellini. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the tortellini are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
A Hearty Fall Favorite
When the leaves start to change and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of soup. This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is the epitome of cozy fall flavors, combining the natural sweetness of butternut squash with the savory depth of sausage and the indulgent richness of cheese-filled tortellini. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul, making it the perfect dish for chilly days or festive gatherings.
A Symphony of Flavors and Textures
The magic of this dish lies in its harmonious blend of ingredients. Butternut squash, with its creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor, serves as the perfect base for the soup. It’s paired with Italian sausage, which adds a robust and slightly spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of the squash. The addition of cheese tortellini elevates the dish, offering a comforting, velvety texture and a touch of indulgence in every bite.
Dried herbs like thyme and sage enhance the soup’s aromatic profile, while a dash of crushed red pepper flakes introduces a subtle heat that rounds out the flavors beautifully. A splash of heavy cream ties everything together, giving the soup its signature creamy consistency.
The Appeal of Seasonal Ingredients
This soup celebrates the bounty of fall, with butternut squash taking center stage as a quintessential autumn ingredient. Not only is squash packed with flavor, but it also brings a wealth of nutrients to the table. Rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and antioxidants, butternut squash is a superfood that supports immune health and overall well-being, especially during the colder months.
Pairing seasonal ingredients like squash with pantry staples such as chicken broth, sausage, and tortellini makes this dish accessible and easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful example of how everyday ingredients can come together to create something truly special.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a meal for your family, or simply treating yourself to a comforting dish, this soup fits the bill. Its versatility makes it suitable for casual weeknight dinners as well as more formal occasions. The recipe is easy to scale, so you can prepare a small batch for two or a larger pot to serve a crowd.
Additionally, this soup is a meal in itself. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest appetites, yet it pairs beautifully with sides like crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad. If you’re looking to impress your guests, serve it alongside a glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement its rich flavors.
Adaptability for Dietary Preferences
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different dietary needs and preferences. For a lighter version, you can substitute pork sausage with turkey or chicken sausage. If you’re catering to vegetarians, swap out the sausage for plant-based alternatives or omit it altogether, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Dairy-free or vegan versions are also achievable by replacing heavy cream with coconut milk or almond cream and choosing a vegan tortellini. These substitutions allow you to maintain the soup’s creamy texture and delightful flavor while catering to dietary restrictions.
Tips for Enhancing the Recipe
To take this recipe to the next level, consider roasting the butternut squash before adding it to the soup. Roasting brings out the squash’s natural sweetness and adds a caramelized depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish. Simply toss the squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
Another way to elevate the soup is by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or chives as a garnish. Not only do they add a pop of color, but they also introduce a fresh, vibrant flavor that complements the rich, creamy soup.
For an added crunch, consider serving the soup with a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled crispy bacon on top. These toppings add an exciting textural contrast and make the dish even more indulgent.
The Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The butternut squash provides a significant dose of vitamin A, which supports vision health, and vitamin C, which boosts immunity. Its fiber content aids digestion, making it a wholesome base for the soup.
The sausage contributes protein, which is essential for muscle repair and satiety, while the tortellini adds carbohydrates for energy. Although the heavy cream contributes to the dish’s richness, it’s used in moderation, ensuring a balance between indulgence and nutrition.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal, as the flavors develop even further after sitting for a day. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm the soup over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, a splash of chicken broth or water can help bring it back to its desired consistency.
For longer storage, the soup can be frozen for up to three months. However, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini, as the pasta can become mushy when thawed. Add fresh tortellini during reheating for the best texture.
Conclusion:
Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful celebration of fall flavors and comfort. Its creamy, savory, and slightly spicy profile makes it a dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes, while its adaptability ensures it can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for entertaining, this soup is a go-to recipe that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. With its combination of wholesome ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself returning to again and again throughout the season. So grab your pot and get ready to enjoy a bowl of heartwarming goodness!