Sausage Tortellini Soup

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed on various occasions. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup stands out as a comforting option that’s perfect for chilly days or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in 30 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of heavy cream and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with kale and chicken sausage, it’s a wholesome choice for your family.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as an appetizer, main course, or alongside your favorite bread.
• Hearty and Filling: This soup is satisfying enough to be a complete meal on its own.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering the soup evenly without spilling.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for consistent flavor.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

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 chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 Tablespoons flour

For Seasoning

• 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 Nutrients

• 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 excess grease. Add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute.

Step 2: Prepare the Roux

Add the flour to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes. This will help eliminate any raw flour taste while thickening the soup.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all flavors.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to “clean” the bottom of the pot. Slowly stir in heavy cream until well blended. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Kale and Tortellini

Mix in chopped kale and tortellini into the simmering soup. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini requires longer cooking time, add it first before introducing kale during the last five minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Taste your soup before serving; add salt as desired. Start with about ¼ teaspoon and adjust based on preference.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Transfer your delicious soup into serving bowls. Pair it with Garlic Bread with Cheese for an extra treat! Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Add finely sliced chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup beautifully.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread for dipping, perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm baguette is ideal for enjoying alongside each spoonful of soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving for added richness and umami.
• Mozzarella: Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing it to melt into the hot soup for a gooey texture.

Served with Salad

• Caesar Salad: Pair with a classic Caesar salad, balancing the richness of the soup with crisp greens.
• Mixed Greens: A light mixed green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creating the perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup involves attention to detail and some cooking tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with less salt and seasoning, then taste and adjust as necessary to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Ensure your tortellini is cooked al dente to maintain its texture in the soup.
• Experiment with Greens: Besides kale, consider adding spinach or Swiss chard for variety in flavor and nutrition.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking can help meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Complement your Sausage Tortellini Soup with these delightful side dishes that will round out your meal nicely.

1. Garlic Breadsticks: These warm, buttery sticks make an excellent choice for dipping into the creamy soup.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh combination of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side option.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms can add an elegant touch to your meal while pairing well with the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits loaded with cheese offer a comforting complement that everyone will love.
6. Antipasto Platter: A selection of olives, cheeses, and cured meats creates a perfect starter before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are some common mistakes to keep in mind.

• Missing the Flour Step: Skipping the flour can lead to a soupy texture. Always add it and cook for a minute or two to avoid that raw taste.
• Overcooking the Tortellini: This can make your pasta mushy. Follow package instructions closely and add tortellini during the last 3-5 minutes of cooking.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting is key! Don’t forget to adjust salt and spices to your preference after cooking. Start small and add more as needed.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: The quality of broth affects overall flavor. Choose a good-quality chicken broth for the best results.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance flavor significantly. Avoid using dried substitutes for these ingredients when possible.

Refrigerator Storage

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

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 soup expands when frozen.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover lightly, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy dish made with ground chicken sausage, tortellini, kale, and simple seasonings. It’s quick to prepare and full of flavor!

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works great in this recipe. Just add it directly without thawing.

How can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?

You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. For extra creaminess, consider adding more heavy cream or even a dollop of cream cheese.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.

Conclusion

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile enough for customization! With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to modify ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand!

---