Sausage Tortellini Soup

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that features ground Italian sausage, fresh kale, and tender tortellini, all enveloped in a luscious creamy broth. Its unique blend of spices makes it stand out while still being easy enough for anyone to master.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for a busy schedule.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and seasonings creates a deliciously hearty taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level.
• Comforting Meal: This soup warms you up on chilly days and satisfies hungry bellies.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults, making it great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Sausage Tortellini Soup requires minimal equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish easily.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Silicone spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking the ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Silicone spatula: Helps scrape the bottom of the pot to prevent burning while mixing 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!

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 with diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pot. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Then add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all the spices.

Step 3: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Kale and Tortellini

Add chopped kale and tortellini into the soup mixture. Allow it to simmer for 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through. If your tortellini requires more time to cook, add it first before introducing kale during the last few minutes.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste your soup before serving; add salt as desired starting with ¼ teaspoon. Once seasoned to your liking, ladle into bowls and enjoy! This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread topped with cheese for an extra treat!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish, perfect for warm gatherings or a cozy night in. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Slice and serve alongside the soup for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Offers a flavorful addition that complements the creamy soup perfectly.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chopped Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can add a bright finish to your soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice that pairs well with the richness of the soup.
• Spinach Salad: Light and refreshing, it balances the hearty flavors.

Served in Individual Bowls

• Rustic Bowls: Presenting the soup in rustic bowls adds charm to your table setting.
• Mason Jars: For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mason jars, perfect for casual dining.

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How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creating the ideal Sausage Tortellini Soup is easy with these handy tips. Use them to elevate your dish to perfection.

• Use Quality Sausage: Choose a high-quality Italian sausage for better flavor and texture.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; adding more herbs or spices can enhance the overall taste.
• Fresh Kale: Opt for fresh kale instead of frozen to maintain vibrant color and texture.
• Cream Consistency: Adjust the amount of cream based on your desired richness; less cream yields a lighter soup.
• Cook Tortellini Separately: If you prefer firmer tortellini, cook them separately and add just before serving.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

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

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, perfect for dipping into the soup.
2. Bruschetta: Topped with tomatoes and basil, this adds a fresh contrast.
3. Caprese Salad: A light salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil that complements the soup’s richness.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil provide a healthy balance.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed with Italian dressing makes for a great contrast in temperature.
6. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy quesadillas filled with cheese make an unexpected yet delightful pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sausage Tortellini Soup can be straightforward, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to season adequately can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning like salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking Tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions for the best texture.
• Neglecting the Base: Not cooking your onions and garlic enough can result in harsh flavors. Ensure they are soft and fragrant before adding other ingredients.
• Ignoring Dairy Addition: Adding cream too early can curdle it. Stir it in after bringing the soup to a simmer for a smooth finish.
• Using Low-Quality Sausage: Cheap sausage might lack flavor. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for a more satisfying dish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sausage Tortellini Soup:

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! You can use chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option.

Is this soup healthy?

This soup contains nutritious ingredients like kale and is balanced with protein from sausage and tortellini, making it a wholesome choice.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What should I serve with Sausage Tortellini Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Try it today and enjoy its comforting flavors!