Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, it combines savory sausage, fresh kale, and tender tortellini in a rich broth. The simplicity of this recipe makes it an ideal choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick meal without sacrificing taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage, spices, and cream creates a rich flavor profile that will please any palate.
- Nutritious Addition: Packed with kale, this soup not only tastes great but also adds nutritional value to your meal.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or alongside garlic bread for a more filling dinner option.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this soup is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make preparing the Sausage Tortellini Soup even easier. Below are essential items you will need.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and enough space to combine all ingredients without overflowing.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring all ingredients blend well.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor in your 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)
- 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
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz., refrigerated or frozen)
- Salt to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Onions
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, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Create the Base
Add flour to the mixture in the pot. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if desired), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 5: Add Kale and Tortellini
Introduce chopped kale and tortellini into the pot. Let them simmer together for about 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add it first before incorporating kale during the last five minutes.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust salt as needed. Start with adding ¼ teaspoon of salt; you can add more if necessary after tasting.
Step 7: Serve Your Soup
Transfer the delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup into serving bowls. Enjoy this comforting dish alongside garlic bread with cheese for an extra treat!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is all about enhancing its creamy goodness and making it a delightful meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Garlic Bread – The perfect accompaniment, this bread is crispy, buttery, and infused with garlic flavor.
- Crusty Baguette – Slice and serve with butter or olive oil for dipping; it’s great for sopping up the soup.
- Breadsticks – Soft and warm breadsticks add a fun twist to your soup meal.
Topped with Garnishes
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds richness and depth to each bowl.
- Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil can brighten the dish with color and fresh flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile.
Accompanied by Salads
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with dressing balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
Perfecting your Sausage Tortellini Soup can take it from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure your soup shines.
- Use Quality Sausage – Selecting high-quality Italian sausage will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
- Don’t Skip the Spices – Ingredients like mustard powder and cayenne may seem subtle but truly elevate the taste.
- Cook Tortellini Wisely – If using frozen tortellini, ensure to follow cooking times on the package for optimal texture.
- Adjust Creaminess – Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream based on your desired richness level.
- Experiment with Greens – While kale works beautifully, spinach or Swiss chard can also be lovely alternatives.
- Store Properly – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with Sausage Tortellini Soup enhances your meal’s variety and satisfaction. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Knots – Soft knots brushed with garlic butter make for a delicious dipper in your soup.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to creamy flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – These savory bites packed with cheese and herbs complement your soup beautifully.
- Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables adds an Italian flair.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies provide healthy balance and vibrant colors alongside the soup.
- Cheesy Quesadillas – Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese are simple yet satisfying when paired with soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to make a few common errors that could affect the flavor or texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland soup. Make sure to use the recommended herbs like basil and oregano for a flavorful experience.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you leave the tortellini in the soup too long, they may become mushy. Follow the cooking time closely for perfect texture.
- Ignoring fat content: Using low-fat cream instead of heavy cream might alter the soup’s creaminess. Stick with heavy cream for a rich and satisfying taste.
- Forgetting to taste: Not tasting your soup before serving can result in unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed for best results.
- Using the wrong sausage: Choosing a sausage that’s too spicy or mild can change the overall flavor profile. Pick a sausage that complements your preferred taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- You can freeze this soup for up to 2-3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space as the soup may expand.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover your soup in an oven-safe dish, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy and hearty dish made with Italian sausage, tortellini pasta, kale, and a blend of flavorful seasonings.
How long does it take to make Sausage Tortellini Soup?
This delicious soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option.
Can I make Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use.
What can I customize in my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
You can add vegetables like spinach or carrots, swap out kale for another leafy green, or use different types of sausage for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as-is or customize it based on your preferences. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try today!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy richness with hearty flavors. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, ready in just 30 minutes. With savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant kale simmered in a luscious broth, it’s a satisfying meal that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the ground Italian sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease and stir in minced garlic for an additional minute.
- Add flour to the mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Mix in dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes until combined.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; let simmer for about 3-5 minutes or until tortellini are cooked through.
- Taste the soup and adjust salt as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
