Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines savory sausage, fresh kale, and tender tortellini in a rich broth. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or impressing guests at a dinner party, this soup promises to be a hit. Its unique blend of flavors and creamy texture make it a standout meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage and spices creates a rich, satisfying taste that warms you from the inside out.
- Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or paired with garlic bread, this soup suits any occasion.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and lean sausage, it’s both delicious and nutritious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and hearty ingredients, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delectable soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking of the ingredients while providing enough space for simmering the soup.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the balance of flavors in your Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Ingredients
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30 minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Base Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
Greens & Pasta
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
To Taste
- Salt/ to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onion
Remove the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. Cook and crumble the sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Flour and Seasonings
Add flour to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Then mix in dried basil, oregano, optional cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot using a silicone spatula. Slowly stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low for simmering.
Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini into the pot. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini are cooked through. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add them first before adding kale during the last 5 minutes.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your soup and add salt as desired; start with about ¼ teaspoon then adjust as needed. Once seasoned to your liking, transfer to serving bowls.
Enjoy this delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup! It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread topped with cheese for an extra touch of comfort!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is simple and rewarding. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or just enjoying a meal at home, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Garlic Bread
- Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up the creamy broth, garlic bread adds a delicious touch to each bite.
Topped with Parmesan
- Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup for an extra layer of flavor. It complements the sausage and kale beautifully.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Basil or Parsley – Chopped herbs can brighten the dish. Sprinkle them on top just before serving for a fresh taste.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar Salad – This classic salad balances the richness of the soup with its crisp greens and tangy dressing.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Crusty Artisan Bread – A hearty bread allows you to enjoy every last drop of soup while adding texture to your meal.
Enjoy with Wine
- White Wine – A chilled glass of white wine pairs nicely with this dish, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To make your Sausage Tortellini Soup even better, consider these tips for perfection.
- Use Quality Sausage – Choosing high-quality Italian sausage can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak spices according to your taste. More cayenne can add heat; less will keep it mild.
- Add Fresh Vegetables – Incorporate seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
- Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer a bit longer can deepen flavors, making it even more delicious.
- Cream Alternatives – For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Make Ahead – This soup keeps well in the fridge. Prepare it in advance for easy meals throughout the week!
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Knots – Soft and buttery, these knots are perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies provide a hearty side that complements the flavors well.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil offers a crunchy texture alongside the smooth soup.
- Spinach Salad – A light spinach salad dressed with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances out the rich soup.
- Cheesy Quesadillas – Quick and easy quesadillas make a fun addition that kids will love!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sausage Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for a perfect soup every time.
- Using the wrong sausage type: Choosing a sausage that is not Italian can alter the flavor profile significantly. Stick with ground Italian sausage for the best results.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you cook the tortellini too long, they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions and add them according to the soup’s cooking time.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste your soup before serving. You may need to adjust salt or spice levels based on personal preference.
- Skipping the cream: The cream adds a rich texture and flavor to your Sausage Tortellini Soup. Don’t skip it unless you want a thinner consistency.
- Not cleaning the pot properly: Failing to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot may lead to an unpleasant taste. Use a spatula during cooking to ensure all flavors are incorporated.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in the container as liquid expands when frozen.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about Sausage Tortellini Soup, here are some common questions answered.
What makes this Sausage Tortellini Soup creamy?
The heavy cream added during cooking gives this soup its rich and creamy texture, enhancing its flavor.
Can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or switch out kale for spinach based on your preference.
How long does it take to make Sausage Tortellini Soup?
This delicious soup only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes! This soup stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also offers a delightful combination of flavors that warms your heart. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Description
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup features savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale, all enveloped in a rich and creamy broth. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this comforting meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, each spoonful offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that will warm your heart. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the crumbled sausage and diced onion until the onion softens and the sausage is browned (about 8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease and stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes. Add basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes; mix well.
- Gradually pour in chicken broth while scraping any browned bits from the pot. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to low heat to simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini to the pot; simmer for about 3-5 minutes or until the tortellini are cooked through. Adjust salt as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 970mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
