Sausage and Butternut Squash Tortellini Soup

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This Sausage and Butternut Squash Tortellini Soup is the ultimate cozy dinner. Savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and roasted butternut squash come together in a rich, flavorful broth.

Close-up of sausage and butternut squash tortellini soup in large pot with wooden spoon

There’s nothing better than a cozy soup on a chilly night, and this sausage and butternut squash tortellini soup delivers comfort in every bite! With savory sausage, tender butternut squash, and cheese filled tortellini, this one-pot meal is warm, hearty and the perfect dinner for every night of the week.

I’m sure we can all agree that easy dinners are a must, especially on busy weeknights and the best thing about this soup recipe it it keeps things simple. You only need one pot and simple ingredients making it an effortless go-to recipe when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.

A bowl of sausage and butternut squash tortellini soup topped with shredded cheese and herbs.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

  • Comforting and filling – Hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and soft butternut squash make this soup satisfying enough to stand alone as a full meal.
  • Easy to make in under 30 minutes – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can have a homemade dinner on the table fast, even on busy nights.
  • Great for busy weeknights – Everything cooks in one pot, which keeps prep and cleanup quick and stress free.
  • Family-friendly – Both kids and adults will love this recipe. Plus, it feeds a crowd which is always a great thing!
Fresh ingredients for sausage and butternut squash tortellini soup arranged on a counter.

Tortellini Soup Ingredients

  • Olive oil – Used to sauté the sausage and vegetables, helping build flavor right from the start
  • Italian sausage – Adds rich, savory flavor and makes the soup hearty and satisfying
  • Carrots – Peeled and chopped into small, bite-sized pieces so they soften evenly while cooking
  • Celery – Thinly sliced into even pieces for a mild crunch and balanced texture
  • Onion – I used a yellow onion but 
  • Garlic – Adds bold, aromatic flavor that enhances every bite
  • Butternut squash – Peeled and cut into 1/2 inch cubes so it becomes tender without overcooking
  • Diced tomatoes – Adds richness and extra flavor to the broth
  • Chicken broth – Can use regular or low sodium chicken broth depending on your preference.
  • Thyme – Complements the sausage and vegetables
  • Oregano – Adds a warm, savory note to the soup
  • Sage – Fresh sage adds so much flavor to this soup
  • Black pepper – Adds gentle heat and balances the flavors
  • Cheese Tortellini – Tender pasta filled with cheese that makes the soup filling and comforting
  • Spinach – Stirred in at the end for color, freshness, and a boost of nutrients

Optional Ingredients & Garnishes

  • Parmesan cheese – Sprinkled on top the hot soup just before serving for extra flavor and richness
  • Fresh herbs  parsley, basil, or thyme brighten the soup and add a fresh, finishing touch. 
  • Red pepper flakes – Add a pinch for a little heat
  • Heavy cream or half-and-half – Stir in for a creamier, richer soup
Cooking sausage and vegetables for soup and adding seasoning to the broth.

How to Make Sausage and Butternut Squash Tortellini Soup

  1. Brown the sausage – Heat the oil in a large pot or dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up as it browns, until fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes.
  2. Sauté the vegetables – Add the carrots, celery, diced onion, garlic, and butternut squash to the pot. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Simmer the soup – Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and seasonings. Stir to combine, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add tortellini and finish – Stir in the tortellini and cook for 5-6 minutes, until tender. Turn off the heat and add the spinach, stirring until wilted. 
  5. Serve – Serve warm topped with grated Parmesan and parsley, if desired.
Close up of Sausage and Butternut Squash soup in large white pot.

What to Serve with Sausage Tortellini Soup

  • Crusty bread or garlic bread – perfect for dipping
  • Simple green or Caesar salad – fresh and light
  • Breadsticks or dinner rolls – easy and comforting
  • Grilled cheese – for an extra-cozy meal
Cozy bowl of tortellini soup perfect for a chilly fall or winter night.

How to Store Leftovers

  • Refrigerator -Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheating – Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
  • Freezing (optional) – We recommend freezing the soup without the tortellini if possible. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and add freshly cooked tortellini before serving.
Close-up of sausage and butternut squash tortellini soup topped with fresh herbs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which type of cheese tortellini should I use?

Both fresh cheese or frozen cheese tortellini work well in this soup. Fresh cheese tortellini cooks a bit faster and has a softer texture, while frozen tortellini is convenient and holds up well in the broth. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package directions and add it toward the end so it doesn’t overcook.

Can I use chicken stock instead of chicken broth?

Yes! Chicken stock works well in this recipe and will give the soup a richer, deeper flavor. Since stock is often unsalted, you may want to taste the soup near the end of cooking and add extra salt if needed.

Can I add extra veggies to this soup?

Absolutely. This soup is very flexible and works well with additional vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or peas are great options. Just add firmer vegetables earlier so they have time to soften, and tender vegetables closer to the end of cooking.

Why does the soup thicken after sitting?

The tortellini and vegetables continue to absorb liquid as the soup cools, which can make it thicker over time.

Should I add more broth when reheating the soup?

Yes. The tortellini will absorb liquid as it sits, so adding extra broth when reheating helps bring the soup back to the perfect consistency.

Hearty sausage tortellini soup served in a white bowl with butternut squash and vegetables.

More Delicious Soup Recipes

Sausage ad Butternut Squash Tortellin Soup

This Sausage and Butternut Squash Tortellini Soup is the ultimate cozy dinner. Savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and sweet roasted-style butternut squash come together in a rich, flavorful broth.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 307 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage
  • 2 large carrots peeled and cut
  • 2 stalks celery sliced
  • 1 onion onion diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic minced
  • 2 cups butternut squash cubed
  • 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes do not drain
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon thyme
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 1 tablespoon pepper
  • 1 (9 ounce) bag of tortellini
  • 1 1/2 cups spinach

Instructions
 

  • Add oil and sausage to large pan and cook over medium to high heat. Stir and cook until it’s browned. About 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the carrots, celery, onion, garlic and butternut squash, and sauté for about 3-5 minutes until they start to soften. 
  • Add the broth, tomatoes with juice and seasonings. Stir to combine. Let it come to a boil and then simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add the tortellini to the broth and cook for about 6 minutes.
  • Turn the heat off and then add the spinach and stir.
  • Pour into bowls and top with grated Parmesan and parsley (optional). Serve and enjoy! 

Nutrition

Calories: 307kcalCarbohydrates: 11gProtein: 14gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 59mgSodium: 1389mgPotassium: 583mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 9870IUVitamin C: 16mgCalcium: 84mgIron: 2mg
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2 Comments

  1. Love the combo of savory sausage, sweet butternut squash, and cheesy tortellini—it’s the perfect balance of flavors for a hearty meal.

5 from 1 vote

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