Sausage Tortellini Soup

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful 30-minute meal that perfectly balances warmth and flavor, making it ideal for cozy dinners or hearty lunches. With its rich broth, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale, this soup is not only satisfying but also versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep & Cook Time: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich & Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and seasonings creates a deliciously creamy texture that’s hard to resist.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with kale and other healthy ingredients, this soup is as nourishing as it is tasty.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a standalone dish or pair it with garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Easily Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools to make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all the ingredients without spilling.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: A good cutting board paired with a sharp knife makes chopping ingredients safe and efficient.
• Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping the bottom of pots without scratching them 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!

Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken chicken chicken 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 Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. This will streamline the cooking process and ensure you don’t forget anything.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions

1. If using sausage links, remove casings.
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground chicken sausage along with diced onions until the onions soften and the sausage is cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
3. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
4. Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Add Flour and Seasonings

1. Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.
2. Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Cream

1. Gradually pour in chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape any bits off the bottom of the pot.
2. Slowly stir in heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Kale and Tortellini

1. Add chopped kale and tortellini into the simmering soup.
2. Simmer for about 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add it first before adding kale during the last five minutes.

Step 6: Season & Serve

1. Taste your soup; add salt if needed—start with about ¼ teaspoon.
2. Transfer servings into bowls and enjoy! This soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread with cheese!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple accompaniments. This creamy soup pairs well with various sides and toppings, making it a versatile choice for any meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Chopped chives add a mild onion taste that complements the soup.

Include Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with thick slices of sourdough for dipping.
• Breadsticks: Crunchy breadsticks provide a fun texture contrast.

Top with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup just before serving for an added layer of richness.
• Mozzarella: Melted mozzarella can be added for those who love cheesy bites.

Serve with Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and complements the creamy soup.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Sausage Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your soup is both delicious and satisfying.

• Bold Seasoning: Adjust seasonings to taste. Don’t hesitate to add more spices if you enjoy bolder flavors.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh chicken sausage and high-quality broth for the best taste.
• Cream Variations: Experiment with half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version without losing creaminess.
• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables ahead of time to streamline cooking on busy nights.
• Garnish Smartly: Use lemon zest as a garnish for a refreshing twist on the traditional flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Sausage Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal to new heights. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that’s perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
2. Cheesy Garlic Rolls: Soft rolls filled with cheese and garlic butter make an irresistible pairing.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a bright contrast to the rich soup.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms add an elegant touch to your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted veggies brings color and nutrition to your plate.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad offers a refreshing complement without overwhelming flavors.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, cheeses, and cured meats makes for a delightful appetizer before the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sausage Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the sautéing step: This step builds flavor. Always sauté the onions and sausage until they’re well-cooked before adding other ingredients.
• Not seasoning properly: Flavor can be dull without enough seasoning. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to enhance the soup’s flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component of the soup. Use high-quality chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Overcooking tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy. Follow package instructions for cooking time and add them at the right moment in the recipe.
• Neglecting greens: Kale adds nutrition and texture. Don’t skip it, and make sure to add it at the right time to maintain its color and nutrients.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in serving-sized portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing excess air before sealing.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I replace tortellini with in Sausage Tortellini Soup?

You can use any small pasta shape like mini shells or ditalini if tortellini isn’t available.

Can I make Sausage Tortellini Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth along with your favorite veggies or plant-based protein.

How do I store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Can I add other vegetables to my Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.

Is this Sausage Tortellini Soup spicy?

The spice level depends on your choice of sausage and added seasonings. You can adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer more vegetables or a different type of protein, feel free to get creative! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead.

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