As the leaves start to turn and the air gets a little crisp, my thoughts drift to warm bowls of comfort. There’s something undeniably soothing about a hearty soup, and this Creamy Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup perfectly captures the essence of fall. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also celebrates the delicate sweetness of butternut squash while marrying beautifully with savory Italian sausage and tender cheese tortellini. Whether you’re whisking it up for a cozy family gathering or a quiet night in, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, with simple ingredient swaps, it fits any dietary preference! Are you ready to warm up your kitchen with this delightful dish?

What makes this soup irresistible?

Hearty, this Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food to enjoy on chilly evenings. Creamy texture brings a soothing richness that wraps you in warmth. Versatile and adaptable, it easily caters to dietary preferences, like swapping turkey sausage for a lighter option. Quick to prepare, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time! Serve it alongside some crusty bread or a light salad to make it a complete feast. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Ingredients

For the Soup

Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps in sautéing the ingredients; can substitute with any cooking oil.
Italian Sausage – Provides protein and robust flavor; substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Onion – Adds a savory base flavor; use shallots or leeks as alternatives.
Garlic – Offers aromatic depth; fresh garlic preferred; can use garlic powder in a pinch.
Chicken Broth – Provides the soup base; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Butternut Squash – Adds creaminess and natural sweetness; pre-cut butternut squash available for convenience.
Dried Thyme – Enhances flavor profile with earthy notes; fresh thyme can also be used if available.
Ground Sage – Contributes a warm, aromatic flavor; omit if sensitive to sage or replace with rosemary.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a hint of heat; adjust to taste or omit for a milder soup.

For Creaminess

Heavy Cream – Creates a rich and creamy texture; substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Cheese Tortellini – Provides texture and heartiness; swap with any filled pasta as desired.

To Season

Salt and Pepper – To taste, balancing flavors of the dish.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Optional garnish for color and freshness.

This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup combines a delightful mix of flavors that will soothe your soul, making it a perfect addition to your collection of cozy recipes!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, using a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Allow the sausage to sizzle and brown for about 5-7 minutes, looking for a nice golden color. This step infuses the oil with savory flavors and sets the base for your cozy Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned, stir in 1 diced onion and 4 minced garlic cloves. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for approximately 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The mixture should become beautifully golden, filling your kitchen with delightful scents. This is a crucial step to enhance the flavor profile of the soup.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth
Next, pour in 6 cups of chicken broth to the pot and increase the heat, bringing it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 4 cups of cubed butternut squash, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of ground sage, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat. Reduce the heat to low and let it gently simmer for 15-20 minutes, ensuring the squash becomes tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Blend the Soup
After the butternut squash is tender, it’s time to blend the soup for that creamy texture! Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it’s smooth and velvety. If you don’t have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, being cautious to avoid splatters. This step transforms your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup into a comforting dish.

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Tortellini
After blending, return the soup to medium heat and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream along with 9 ounces of cheese tortellini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally. This will create a luscious and rich consistency, making every bite utterly satisfying.

Step 6: Season and Serve
Finally, season your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of color and flavor. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a delightful meal. Your cozy soup is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Store and Freeze Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warm.

Freezer: Store the soup (without tortellini) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to serve, gently reheat the soup on the stove. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Tip: For the best flavor, avoid freezing tortellini as they can become mushy; add fresh tortellini when reheating the soup.

Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this comforting soup; there’s a delightful twist for everyone!

Turkey Sausage: Swap pork sausage for turkey sausage for a lighter, yet still flavorful option.
Spicy Twist: Opt for spicy Italian sausage to elevate the heat and add an exciting kick to your soup.
Vegan Delight: Omit the sausage entirely and use plant-based sausage for a hearty, vegan version everyone will love.
Coconut Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a unique flavor that enhances the soup’s creaminess without dairy.
Cauliflower Addition: Boost the veggie content by adding riced cauliflower or diced carrots for extra texture and nutrition.
Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or basil instead of thyme and sage for a fresh twist on flavor.
Crunchy Topping: Top your soup with crispy fried onions or toasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Filled Pasta Swap: Use any stuffed pasta you adore, such as ravioli, to change the flavor profile entirely—cheese-filled adds a creamy richness!

If you crave even more comforting dishes, you might enjoy Butternut Squash Lasagna or Savory Butternut Squash. Embrace your culinary creativity, and enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead Options

This Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the veggies, sauté the sausage, and mix in the broth up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate the mixture until you’re ready to cook. To maintain its delightful flavor and texture, store the soup base separately from the tortellini and cream, as adding those components too early can lead to overcooked pasta. When you’re ready to serve, heat the soup base on the stove, stir in the heavy cream and tortellini, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tortellini is tender. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, warm meal with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

What to Serve with Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup

There’s nothing quite like a cozy Italian-inspired meal that warms your heart and soul. Pairing the rich flavors of creamy soup with complementary sides elevates your dining experience.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crusty exterior and soft inside enhance the creamy texture while soaking up every delicious spoonful.
Garlic Bread: Its buttery garlic aroma beautifully matches the soup’s warmth, creating an indulgent flavor combination.
Light Side Salad: A tangy vinaigrette salad adds freshness to counterbalance the richness of the soup, making every mouthful delightful.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelization of Brussels sprouts brings a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy soup.
Parmesan Crisps: Crispy, cheesy bites add a lovely crunch, enhancing the dish’s richness while bringing an elegant touch to your meal.
Apple Crisp: A sweet dessert with cinnamon apples complements the savory soup, ending your meal with a satisfying balance.
Wine Pairing: A light Pinot Grigio or Riesling enhances the soup’s flavors with subtle acidity, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Cranberry Juice Spritzer: For a refreshing non-alcoholic option, this fruity drink gives a touch of sweetness and brightens your meal.

With these delightful accompaniments, your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup transforms into a cozy, memorable feast.

Helpful Tricks for Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup

Roast for Depth: Roasting the butternut squash before adding it provides a richer flavor that elevates your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Pre-Cut Convenience: If short on time, use pre-cut butternut squash from the grocery store to save prep time and make cooking easier.
Blending Tips: When using a standard blender, blend in batches to prevent overflow. An immersion blender is easier and avoids mess!
Perfect Tortellini: Stir in tortellini just before serving and avoid overcooking to ensure they remain al dente and add the right texture to your soup.
Adjusting Flavor: Taste and adjust seasonings at the end; adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best butternut squash?
Absolutely! When selecting butternut squash, look for ones that feel heavy for their size with a smooth, pale tan skin. Avoid squashes with dark spots or blemishes. A ripe butternut squash should have a firm texture, and its stem should be intact; this indicates freshness.

How long can I store leftovers of this soup?
Very! You can store your Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it cools down before sealing it up. It’s so easy to reheat on the stove or in the microwave—just warm it until heated through!

Can I freeze this soup, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your soup, first, remove the tortellini since they can become mushy in the freezer. Store the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and gently reheat on the stove, adding fresh tortellini just before serving.

What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If you find your soup too thick after reheating, don’t worry! Just add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and warm it up gradually on the stove until it’s back to that creamy texture you love.

Is this soup suitable for vegans or those with dietary restrictions?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make this Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup vegan by swapping out the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage and using coconut milk in place of heavy cream. Just ensure your tortellini is also vegan-friendly! This way, everyone can enjoy the cozy flavors of this dish.

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Of course! If you don’t have cheese tortellini on hand, feel free to swap it for any filled pasta you love or even a hearty whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type so it remains perfectly cooked and al dente in your luscious soup!