Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a quick family dinner, this dish offers rich flavors and comforting warmth. The blend of Italian sausage, fresh kale, and tender tortellini makes it not only delicious but also satisfying. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With only 5 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
- Creamy Goodness: The addition of heavy cream creates a rich and velvety texture that elevates this soup to the next level.
- Flavor Packed: Using Italian sausage along with simple seasonings ensures each spoonful bursts with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: This soup allows for easy substitutions based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Freezable Option: Make a large batch and freeze leftovers for busy days when cooking isn’t an option.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare this tasty Sausage Tortellini Soup.
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: Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overflow.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even distribution of heat and flavors.
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: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Cook the ground Italian sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat.
1. If using sausage links, remove the casings before cooking.
2. Crumble the sausage as it cooks until browned (about 8-10 minutes), then drain excess grease.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
Step 2: Create the Base
Add flour to the mixture to help thicken the soup.
1. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
2. Incorporate dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 3: Add Broth and Cream
Now it’s time to build flavor!
1. Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to release any flavorful bits.
2. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 4: Finish with Kale and Tortellini
Add fresh ingredients for color and nutrition!
1. Toss in chopped kale and tortellini into the pot.
2. Simmer everything together for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is cooked through (adjust timing if your tortellini requires longer).
Step 5: Seasoning Touches
Taste your soup!
1. Start by adding salt gradually; begin with about ¼ teaspoon before adjusting according to preference.
2. Serve hot in bowls—this soup pairs wonderfully with Garlic Bread with Cheese!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful ways to serve this delicious soup.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread complements the creamy soup wonderfully, adding a crunchy texture. Toast slices of your favorite bread with garlic butter for extra flavor.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for freshness.
Top with Parmesan Cheese
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavors of the soup. It adds an extra layer of creaminess that makes every bite enjoyable.
Serve in Bread Bowls
- For a fun and hearty presentation, serve your sausage tortellini soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an edible serving dish that soaks up the broth.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh basil or parsley can add a pop of color and aroma to your dish. Simply chop and sprinkle over the top before serving.
Offer Crusty Rolls
- Serve with warm, crusty rolls on the side to soak up every last drop of soup. They are easy to prepare and great for dipping.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
Perfecting your Sausage Tortellini Soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate this dish.
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Use quality sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor. You can opt for hot or mild based on your preference.
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Don’t skip the aromatics: Onions and garlic build a flavor foundation. Make sure to sauté them until soft before adding other ingredients.
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Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt and spices to suit your palate, ensuring a well-seasoned soup.
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Add vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like carrots or spinach for added nutrition and color.
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Control creaminess: For a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half.
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Make it ahead: This soup can be made in advance! Store it in an airtight container; it tastes even better the next day.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor, making it a fantastic accompaniment.
- Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide fresh bites between spoonfuls of soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add depth and nutrition to your meal.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese and herbs complement the creamy texture of the soup perfectly.
- Antipasto Platter: An array of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies offers variety and delight.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad can balance the warmth of the soup while providing additional carbs for a satisfying meal.
- Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, bruschetta brings freshness that pairs beautifully with Italian flavors.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese give you something warm and comforting alongside your soup.
Enjoy creating delightful pairings with your Sausage Tortellini Soup!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sausage Tortellini Soup can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results.
- Overcooking the sausage: Cooking the sausage too long can dry it out. Aim for just cooked through, then add other ingredients.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving can leave it bland. Always taste and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Skipping the flour cooking step: Failing to cook the flour adequately can lead to a raw taste. Make sure to cook it for 1-2 minutes after adding it to the pot.
- Adding all ingredients at once: Dumping everything in the pot at once may not allow flavors to develop properly. Add ingredients in stages to enhance flavor.
- Ignoring cooking times for tortellini: Different brands of tortellini have different cooking times. Check package instructions and adjust accordingly for best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Can I use frozen tortellini in my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.
What type of sausage is best for Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Italian sausage, either hot or mild, is recommended for great flavor; however, you can use any preferred sausage.
Can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or carrots or swap out kale based on your preference.
How do I make this soup lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or light cream for heavy cream if you want a lighter version of Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also customizable to fit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a cozy gathering dish, this recipe has you covered. Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables or spices!
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Savor the delightful flavors of this creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, an ideal comfort meal ready in just 30 minutes! This recipe combines the robust taste of Italian sausage with tender tortellini and nutrient-rich kale, all enveloped in a velvety broth enhanced by heavy cream. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this soup is sure to impress your family and friends. With its rich, savory profile and easy preparation, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that warms the soul. Get ready for a hearty meal that’s both delicious and quick to make!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale
- 2 cups tortellini
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground Italian sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until browned (8-10 minutes). Drain any excess grease and add minced garlic; sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Then add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the pot's bottom to release flavors. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is cooked through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt as needed before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
