Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful 30-minute meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table. Perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings, this dish combines savory sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale in a rich broth. The unique blend of spices adds depth to the flavor, making it a standout choice for family dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the satisfaction of serving a delicious soup that’s sure to please everyone!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This soup takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and spices creates an irresistible taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use hot or mild sausage and fresh or frozen tortellini based on your preference or pantry availability.
- Nutritious Additions: With kale packed in each bowl, you get a healthy boost along with the comforting flavors.
- Easily Scalable: Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe can easily be adjusted to suit any occasion.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Sausage Tortellini Soup, gather all necessary tools for an efficient cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for easy stirring and prevents overflow while simmering the soup.
- Silicone spatula: This tool helps scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent burning and ensures even mixing of ingredients.
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)
For Seasoning
- 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 Nutrition
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
For Pasta
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
Final Touches
- Salt/ to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Remove the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. Cook and crumble the sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Add Flour and Spices
Add 3 tablespoons of flour to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Next, add dried basil, oregano, cayenne (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in 5 cups of chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom of the pot. Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini into the soup. Simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is cooked through. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add it first before incorporating kale during the last five minutes.
Step 5: Season Before Serving
Taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed by adding salt—start with ¼ teaspoon and increase if necessary.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer your delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup into serving bowls. It pairs wonderfully with Garlic Bread with Cheese! Enjoy!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in several ways. It’s not just hearty and comforting; it can also be paired with complementary sides to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic Butter Bread: Serve toasted garlic bread slathered in butter for a crunchy side that’s perfect for dipping in the soup.
Offer a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup, making it a balanced meal option.
Add Some Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Include Crusty Artisan Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: These breads are excellent for soaking up the delicious broth, enhancing every bite.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top just before serving to brighten up the dish.
Serve with Wine
- White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine complements the flavors of the soup beautifully and makes for a sophisticated pairing.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To create an unforgettable Sausage Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips for achieving the best flavor and texture.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh kale and quality sausage can significantly elevate the taste of your soup.
-
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply add more tortellini or reduce the amount of broth slightly.
-
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices based on your preference. Adding more cayenne can increase heat if desired.
-
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer will deepen its flavors, so don’t rush this step if time permits.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Tortellini Soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some fantastic options:
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery breadsticks infused with garlic flavor make for an amazing dipper.
- Caprese Salad: The freshness of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil brings a lightness that balances the richness of the soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a delightful contrast in texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal while complementing the soup’s flavors.
- Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with melted cheese provide a fun twist that kids will love.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms bring earthiness and depth to round out your meal perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning adds depth to your soup. Always taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and spices to enhance flavors.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for perfect texture.
- Neglecting to drain grease: Leaving excess grease can lead to a greasy soup. Be sure to drain any fat after cooking the sausage before adding other ingredients.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality broth or cream can diminish your soup’s flavor. Choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- Not allowing flavors to meld: Rushing through cooking can prevent flavors from developing. Allow your soup to simmer for a few minutes to blend the tastes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup that might help you while preparing this delicious meal.
Can I use frozen tortellini in Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.
What type of sausage is best for this soup?
Italian sausage, whether hot or mild, adds great flavor. Feel free to experiment with different varieties!
How can I make this soup healthier?
You can substitute half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream and add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Is Sausage Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.
Can I customize the greens used in this recipe?
Yes! While kale is great, you can use spinach or Swiss chard based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also comforting and flavorful. With its rich taste and versatile ingredients, you can customize it according to your preferences. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful warmth!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Savor the warmth and comfort of this creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful dish that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. This hearty soup features savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale swimming in a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it combines a unique blend of spices that elevate its flavor profile, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or meal prep for the week ahead, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone at your table.
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 (refrigerated or frozen)
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook the sausage and onions over medium-high heat until the onions are soft and the sausage is browned. Drain excess grease and add garlic; cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in flour and spices; cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.
- Add kale and tortellini; simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is cooked.
- Adjust seasoning with salt to taste.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
