Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful and quick meal that brings warmth to any table. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup combines flavorful sausage, tender kale, and rich cream for a satisfying dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something comforting. The unique blend of spices and the heartiness of tortellini make this soup stand out and keep you coming back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
- Flavorful Comfort: With its rich creaminess and savory sausage, this soup offers a warm embrace in every bite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together, this soup fits right in.
- Nutritious: Packed with kale and protein from the sausage, it’s a wholesome meal that nourishes as it delights.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing Sausage Tortellini Soup is simple with the right tools. Having these essentials will streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing enough space for all ingredients to blend seamlessly.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware. They allow you to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot effectively.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables like onions and kale quick and precise, saving you time in preparation.
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 Ingredients
Before starting, gather all your ingredients. Note: The mustard powder and hot sauce are subtle but enhance other flavors—don’t skip them!
Step 2: Cook Sausage and Onions
- Remove the casings from the sausage if using links.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the sausage with diced onions until the onions soften and the sausage is cooked through (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Flour and Spices
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to get rid of raw flour taste.
- Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
Step 4: Combine Broth and Cream
- Pour in chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape any bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Gradually stir in heavy cream. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
Step 5: Incorporate Kale and Tortellini
- Add chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Let simmer for about 3–5 minutes.
(Note: If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add it before incorporating kale.)
Step 6: Seasoning Touches
- Taste your soup! Start by adding salt—begin with ¼ teaspoon—and adjust as needed.
Step 7: Serve Your Delicious Soup
Transfer soup into bowls. This dish pairs wonderfully with Garlic Bread with Cheese! Enjoy your homemade Sausage Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. This creamy soup pairs well with many sides and toppings, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for an aromatic touch.
- Parsley – Chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
Include Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese – A generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the flavor profile.
- Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella can create a gooey, indulgent topping.
Offer Bread Options
- Garlic Bread – Serve with crispy garlic bread for a classic pairing.
- Crusty Baguette – A slice of baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
Add a Zesty Twist
- Lemon Wedge – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors.
- Hot Sauce – For those who enjoy heat, provide hot sauce on the side.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To make your Sausage Tortellini Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that each bowl is packed with flavor and texture.
- Season – Don’t be shy with spices; they elevate the soup’s taste significantly.
- Cook tortellini properly – Follow package instructions for perfect texture; avoid overcooking.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh kale and quality sausage make all the difference in flavor.
- Adjust creaminess – Modify the amount of cream based on your preference for richness.
- Let it simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds flavors beautifully.
- Taste before serving – Always check seasoning; adjust salt and pepper to suit your palate.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with Sausage Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this comforting soup perfectly.
- Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots infused with garlic are perfect for dipping.
- Caesar Salad – A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch to your meal.
- Caprese Salad – Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil create a light side option.
- Bruschetta – Topped with diced tomatoes and basil, bruschetta offers a flavorful bite.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized add depth to your meal.
- Cheese Platter – An assortment of cheeses provides variety and complements the soup’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup is easier when you avoid common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting spices can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you cook the tortellini for too long, they will become mushy. Follow package instructions for cooking time and add them just before serving.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality sausage can affect the overall flavor. Choose good-quality Italian sausage for the best results.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh kale and garlic will enhance your soup’s taste significantly. Avoid wilted or stale vegetables for a more vibrant flavor.
- Forgetting about texture: If you want a creamier soup, blend a portion of it after cooking. This adds body without compromising on substance.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Sausage Tortellini Soup.
How do I make Sausage Tortellini Soup gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free tortellini and substitute flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I add more vegetables to the Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to include veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition.
Is Sausage Tortellini Soup healthy?
This soup contains protein from sausage and nutrients from kale, making it a balanced option when enjoyed in moderation.
How can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
You can change up the herbs or add different types of cheese for unique flavors that suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a rich bowl filled with hearty tortellini, flavorful sausage, and nutrient-packed kale. The combination of spices, cream, and tender pasta creates a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Ideal for anyone craving warmth and flavor, this soup can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you’re dining solo or entertaining guests, this quick recipe will surely impress!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 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 (refrigerated or frozen)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat until the sausage is browned and onions are softened. Drain excess grease.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes before adding basil, oregano, and other spices.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the pot to deglaze. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for about 3–5 minutes or until tortellini is cooked through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
