Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is packed with flavor and comfort. Featuring hearty sausage, nutritious kale, and tender tortellini, it stands out as a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a family dinner, this versatile recipe is sure to please at any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and seasonings creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with kale and protein from sausage, this soup offers great nutritional benefits.
- Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or pair it with bread for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your Sausage Tortellini Soup, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Silicone spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without spills.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping the bottom of the pot while preventing scratches on non-stick surfaces.
Ingredients
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30 minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 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
For Creaminess and Broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
For Greens and Pasta
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
Seasoning to Taste
- Salt/ to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onion
Start by removing the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the sausage along with diced onions until the onions soften and the sausage is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease before adding garlic; cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Flour and Seasonings
Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Then add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale along with tortellini into the simmering soup. Allow it to cook for 3-5 minutes until both are tender. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add them first; include kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Final Touches
Taste your soup before serving; add salt if needed—start with about ¼ teaspoon before adjusting according to preference.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup into serving bowls. This dish pairs beautifully with Garlic Bread with Cheese!
Enjoy your warm bowl of comforting goodness!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance the dining experience with a few simple additions that complement the rich flavors of the soup.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic and butter adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
- Cheese-Stuffed Garlic Bread: For an extra treat, choose garlic bread filled with cheese for a gooey delight.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds color.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil brings out the Italian flavors and enhances the aroma.
Offer Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top elevates the taste and adds a savory touch.
- Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can be added for a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with tortellini.
Serve with a Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crisp lettuce and creamy dressing make a great side that balances the richness of the soup.
- Spinach Salad: A fresh spinach salad with nuts and berries can add a healthy twist to your meal.
Include Crackers or Breadsticks
- Saltine Crackers: Simple yet satisfying, saltines are perfect for dipping into your soup.
- Breadsticks: Soft, warm breadsticks provide an enjoyable way to soak up every last drop of broth.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Sausage Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance flavor compared to dried or canned options.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a customized flavor profile.
- Don’t overcook tortellini: Ensure your tortellini is cooked just right; overcooked pasta can become mushy in soup.
- Experiment with greens: While kale is great, feel free to swap it out for spinach or Swiss chard for different tastes and textures.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Just store it properly in the fridge.
- Add protein variations: For more protein, consider adding beans or chickpeas alongside sausage for a hearty twist.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
To complete your meal, pairing some delightful side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for an easy appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add both flavor and nutrition to your meal.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables provides variety and excitement on the table.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with Italian dressing complements the warm soup perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of creamy soup and add sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough herbs and spices can lead to a bland soup. Always taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you cook the tortellini too long, they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for the best texture.
- Not draining the grease: Leaving excess grease from the sausage can make your soup too oily. Always drain after cooking the sausage and onions.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can negatively impact flavor. Select fresh vegetables and good-quality sausage for a rich taste.
- Neglecting to clean the pot: Failing to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot can result in uneven flavors. Use a silicone spatula to thoroughly clean the pot when adding broth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Sausage Tortellini Soup can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Sausage Tortellini Soup last?
Sausage Tortellini Soup lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or any preferred variety for a healthier option.
Is this Sausage Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Make a large batch and store it in portions for quick meals throughout the week.
What can I add to customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or swap kale with spinach for different flavors.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Simply substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version of Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly nights or busy days when you crave something comforting. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This creamy dish comes together in just 30 minutes, featuring savory ground Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale. The rich flavors are enhanced by a blend of spices and a touch of heavy cream, making each bowl incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a family dinner, this soup promises to be a hit with everyone at the table. Serve it with garlic bread for a complete meal that warms both your heart and your stomach.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook crumbled sausage and diced onions until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease and add minced garlic; cook for another minute.
- Stir in flour and seasonings (basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper). Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot. Stir in heavy cream; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
