Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel

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There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of soup—especially when it’s loaded with savory Italian sausage, pillowy cheese tortellini, and the fragrant touch of fennel. This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel is the kind of meal that fills the house with irresistible aroma and brings everyone to the table with anticipation.

It’s a one-pot wonder perfect for chilly evenings, cozy weekends, or when you’re simply craving a nourishing dinner that feels homemade and gourmet all at once. With just the right balance of spice, creaminess, and depth, this soup is a standout star you’ll want to make again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel

This soup has all the elements of a satisfying dish: rich sausage, the licorice notes of fennel, the soft bite of tortellini, and the freshness of spinach stirred in at the end. It’s ready in under 45 minutes, requires minimal cleanup, and can easily be adapted with your favorite greens or tortellini flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or prepping meals ahead, this recipe checks every box for flavor, ease, and warmth.

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What Kind of Sausage Works Best in This Soup?

Mild Italian sausage is a popular choice for this recipe, giving the broth a robust and herby flavor without too much heat. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for hot Italian sausage or even a mix of both for a layered depth. You can also go with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version—just make sure it’s flavorful and well-seasoned to complement the richness of the tortellini.

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Ingredients for the Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel

• Italian Sausage – Adds bold, meaty flavor that becomes the backbone of the broth.
• Cheese Tortellini – Tender, cheesy pasta pockets that bring richness and texture.
• Fennel Bulb – Offers a subtle sweetness and delicate licorice flavor that lifts the whole soup.
• Yellow Onion – Creates an aromatic base and enhances the overall depth.
• Garlic Cloves – Essential for a well-rounded, savory foundation.
• Crushed Tomatoes – Add acidity and umami, making the broth vibrant and hearty.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the flavorful liquid base of the soup.
• Fresh Spinach – Stirred in at the end for color and added nutrition.
• Olive Oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and sausage.
• Salt & Pepper – To season and bring out the flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – For finishing with a savory, nutty topping.

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How To Make the Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and fennel, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Add the Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Liquids

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Add Tortellini

Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to develop the flavors. Then, add the tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 5-7 minutes, until tender.

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Season

Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in fresh spinach until wilted. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

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How to Serve and Store Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel

This soup is best enjoyed hot, straight from the pot, with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It feeds about 4 to 6 people comfortably, making it a great choice for family dinners or small gatherings.

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the tortellini) for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then cook fresh tortellini directly in the broth for best texture.

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What to Serve With Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel?

Crusty Italian Bread

Perfect for dipping and mopping up the savory broth.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Roasted Vegetables

Try oven-roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for a hearty side dish.

Garlic Breadsticks

A soft, garlicky addition that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Antipasto Platter

Serve before the soup with olives, cheeses, and marinated veggies for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Balsamic Roasted Tomatoes

A tangy-sweet side that pairs well with the creamy tortellini and sausage.

Parmesan Crisps

Add some crunch to your meal with homemade cheese crisps.

A Glass of Red Wine

A medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese complements the flavors beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Absolutely. Frozen tortellini works just as well. You may need to add a minute or two to the cooking time—just follow the package instructions.

What can I substitute for fennel?
If you don’t have fennel or prefer a different flavor, try using celery or leeks for a milder base. The fennel does add a unique taste, but it’s flexible.

Can this soup be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the sausage for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Make sure your tortellini is cheese-filled with no meat.

Is this soup good for meal prep?
It sure is. Just store the broth and tortellini separately if you’re planning to eat it throughout the week. This prevents the pasta from soaking up too much liquid.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use spicy sausage or keep it mild? Did you toss in kale or stick with spinach?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
Find more warm and hearty dishes over on my Pinterest: Meals We Share By Sally

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Conclusion

Sausage Tortellini Soup with Spinach & Fennel is a cozy, comforting meal that combines hearty ingredients with fresh, wholesome flavor. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough to serve to guests. With minimal effort and maximum satisfaction, it’s the perfect recipe to keep on repeat throughout soup season.

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