Sausage Tortellini Soup

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful and creamy dish that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, offering a rich flavor profile with the heartiness of sausage and the freshness of kale. This soup is not only comforting but also versatile, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of only 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those hectic days when you need a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, fresh kale, and creamy broth creates a hearty soup that is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the level of spice according to your preference.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This Sausage Tortellini Soup stores well in the fridge, making it great for leftovers or meal prep for the week ahead.
• Kid-Friendly: Its creamy texture and mild flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this easy recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A good-sized pot allows you to cook all your ingredients evenly while giving ample space for simmering.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure that every flavor shines through in your soup.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: These tools help prevent scratches on your cookware while mixing ingredients effectively.

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

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 any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Add Flour and Seasonings

Add 3 tablespoons of flour to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Then mix in dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 3: Create the Soup Base

Pour in 5 cups of chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to clean the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini

Stir in chopped kale and tortellini into the simmering soup. Allow it to cook for about 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini requires a longer cooking time, add them first; then include the kale during the last five minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Taste your soup once everything is cooked through. Start by adding salt—about ¼ teaspoon—and adjust according to your preference.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer your delicious soup into serving bowls. Enjoy it warm! This dish pairs wonderfully with Garlic Bread with Cheese!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic choice, this bread complements the soup’s creaminess.
• Crusty Baguette: Perfect for dipping, it adds a delightful crunch to each bite.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the soup.
• Mixed Greens: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a healthy touch to your meal.

With Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: Sprinkle fresh parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Cheddar Toast: Melted cheddar on toast pairs beautifully with the soup.

With Wine

• White Wine: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the meal experience.
• Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.

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How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

To make your Sausage Tortellini Soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more cayenne or red pepper flakes to taste.
• Cream Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version while keeping it creamy.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and texture.
• Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and frozen for quick meals later on.
• Garnish Wisely: Top with fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic finish.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Sausage Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for dipping in the soup.
2. Cheesy Spinach Dip: Serve warm with pita chips; it’s a great appetizer before the main dish.
3. Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes and basil on toasted bread provide a light contrast to the soup.
4. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil complements the rich flavors well.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites offer an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with the soup.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies add color and healthiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to follow the seasoning recommendations closely for a taste boost.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy. Follow the package instructions and add them at the right moment for perfect texture.
• Neglecting to drain grease: Leaving excess grease from the sausage can make your soup overly greasy. Always drain before adding other ingredients for a cleaner flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: A good broth is key to great soup. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for rich flavor rather than low-sodium or generic options.
• Not tasting before serving: Failing to taste your soup before serving can mean missing out on adjustments. Always taste and adjust salt or seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Tortellini Soup.

Can I use frozen tortellini in this Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Simply add them directly to the soup as directed without thawing.

What kind of sausage should I use for Sausage Tortellini Soup?

You can use either hot or mild Italian sausage based on your preference. Both options work well!

How do I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also adjust spices according to your taste.

Is Sausage Tortellini Soup healthy?

This soup includes nutritious ingredients like kale and lean protein from sausage, making it a balanced meal option.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only creamy and flavorful but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or spices, ensuring everyone enjoys their bowl full of comfort. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!