Name: Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed; 1 small onion, diced; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon paprika (optional); ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 package (about 20 oz) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen); ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 3 cups baby spinach; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine in a warm and hearty bowl. This soup is perfect for cozy nights or when you need a little pick-me-up. The creamy base, combined with savory sausage, rich broth, and tender ravioli, creates a satisfying meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.

Imagine a cold evening, and you come home to your kitchen filled with the aroma of sautéed sausage and garlic. Each spoonful of this soup feels like a hug, giving you that comfort and joy one seeks from a homemade meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weekdays or a relaxing weekend dinner.

How to Make Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
1 small onion, diced
3–4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 package (about 20 oz) cheese ravioli (fresh or frozen)
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped
3 cups baby spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the Italian sausage to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the sausage for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion to the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion starts to soften. Then, stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and paprika and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Sauté these ingredients for about one more minute, allowing the wonderful aroma to fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer

Next, pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let it simmer uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps all the flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 4: Add Ravioli and Tomatoes

Now it’s time to add the ravioli and the sun-dried tomatoes. Stir them into the soup and let everything simmer for about 5 to 6 minutes. Check the package instructions for cooking times if you’re using fresh or frozen ravioli. You want the ravioli to be cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cheese

Turn off the heat and add the baby spinach into the pot. Give it a good stir until the spinach has wilted down. Next, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts and mixes in with the rest of the soup. Finally, season with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each bowl with fresh basil or parsley. This soup goes great with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup

Serving Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup is simple and easy. After ladling the soup into bowls, a small garnish of fresh basil or parsley enhances its presentation and flavor. Consider offering crusty bread on the side for dipping. A light side salad with a simple vinaigrette can add freshness, balancing the richness of the soup.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, keep some crushed red pepper flakes on the table for guests who might want an extra kick. This soup is perfect for gatherings or intimate family dinners, making any meal feel special.

How to Store Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup

If you have leftovers, storing Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup is a breeze. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to get it back to the desired consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above.

Tips to Make Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup

Sausage Choice: You can choose mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference. Turkey sausage is a leaner option if you want a lighter soup.
Fresh vs. Frozen Ravioli: Both fresh and frozen ravioli work well, but fresh may need less cooking time. Always check the package instructions for the best result.
Spinach Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of spinach, feel free to substitute it with kale or another leafy green to keep the nutritional value.
Thicker Soup: For a thicker soup, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with cold water at the end of cooking or blend part of the soup to create a creamier texture.
Flavor Enhancers: Adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or zest before serving can brighten up the flavors.

Variation

You can easily customize Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup to fit your taste preferences. Some variations include:

Adding vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to make it heartier.
Using different types of cheese ravioli or even tortellini for a twist.
Incorporating herbs like thyme or oregano for enhanced flavor.
Swapping the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the ravioli just before serving to keep it from becoming too soft.

Q: Is this soup suitable for a meal prep?

A: Absolutely! Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Just remember to add fresh ingredients right before serving.

Q: Can I use other types of protein instead of sausage?

A: Yes! You can use chicken, ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage alternatives. Adjust the cooking times as needed based on your choice of protein.

Creamy Tuscan Ravioli Soup is simply a delightful dish that combines comfort with flavor, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful!