Viral Trader Joe’s Tortellini Soup!

Okay, so you loved the idea of this super easy Trader Joe's Tortellini Soup recipe, but maybe you're thinking, 'What about Italian sausage?' You're not alone! I've experimented a bit, and let me tell you, swapping out the ground turkey for Italian sausage is a fantastic way to add another layer of flavor. If you're using mild Italian sausage, it brings a lovely savory depth without any heat, perfect for family dinners. For those who like a kick, hot Italian sausage will infuse the whole soup with a wonderful spice! Just brown about a pound of Italian sausage (either ground or removed from its casings if using links) in your pot first, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat before proceeding with the rest of the recipe. This small change makes it feel like an entirely new, incredibly comforting meal. Speaking of comfort, this soup truly hits the spot, especially on a chilly evening. It's so versatile, too! While the Trader Joe's Cheese Tortellini is a staple, don't hesitate to try their Spinach Tortellini if you want an extra boost of greens, or even their Cacio e Pepe tortellini for a gourmet twist. If you're using a frozen tortellini, just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly – usually, they need a couple more minutes to become tender. For those looking for a truly "set it and forget it" meal, you could even adapt this for a crockpot! Just brown your ground meat (or sausage), combine all ingredients (except spinach and tortellini) in the slow cooker, and add the fresh tortellini and spinach about 30 minutes before serving to prevent them from getting mushy. I also love to bulk up this soup with extra veggies. Sometimes I'll throw in a handful of diced carrots or celery with the ground meat, or even some chopped kale alongside the spinach. It makes the soup even more nutritious and hearty. If you find the soup isn't quite as thick as you'd like, you can let it simmer a bit longer, or even stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) at the end, letting it cook for a few minutes to thicken. This acts like a rich "sauce" for the tortellini, making each bite incredibly satisfying. And if you're a big fan of Trader Joe's products like I am, consider trying this recipe with their Creamy Tomato Soup as a base for a different, equally delicious flavor profile. Serve it with some crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich, and you've got a complete, unbelievably easy, and utterly delicious weeknight dinner!