Sausage Tortellini Soup

Indulge in the warmth of our creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful blend of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale simmered in a luscious broth. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it promises to please everyone at the table. Enjoy this cozy meal paired with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy broth delivers a flavor-packed experience.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with different greens or pasta types according to your preference.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this hearty dish, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
• Great Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Sausage Tortellini Soup, gathering the right tools will make your process smoother and quicker.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients evenly while allowing enough space for stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups kale (chopped)
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Flavoring and Thickening

• 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
• 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
• Salt/ to taste

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions

In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and onions until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft. Drain excess grease and add minced garlic; cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add Flour and Spices

Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Add spices and mix well to incorporate flavors into the mixture.

Step 3: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot; slowly mix in heavy cream. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Kale and Tortellini

Add chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for about 3–5 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or having a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the creamy texture of the soup perfectly. Its crunchiness provides a delightful contrast to the softness of the tortellini.

Serve with a Fresh Salad

• A fresh salad adds a refreshing touch to balance the richness of the soup. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a vibrant addition.

Top with Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese on top enhances the flavor of the soup. The salty, nutty notes from the cheese create an irresistible combination with the sausage.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing your bowl with fresh basil or parsley not only adds color but also boosts the flavor profile. Fresh herbs provide a burst of freshness that elevates every spoonful.

Accompany with Crusty Rolls

• Crusty rolls are perfect for dipping into the soup. Their hearty texture soaks up all the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• For a more elegant presentation, serve your Sausage Tortellini Soup in individual bowls. This approach makes it feel special, especially for gatherings or dinner parties.

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How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

To make your Sausage Tortellini Soup even better, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality Italian sausage and fresh vegetables for better flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for more nutrition.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer can deepen the flavors; just be careful not to overcook the tortellini.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in airtight containers and reheat gently to maintain quality.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Complement your Sausage Tortellini Soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and tanginess that pairs well with creamy soups.
2. Caprese Skewers: These skewers featuring mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil make for an easy finger food option.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are hearty and satisfying alongside your soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides color and nutrition without overwhelming flavors.
5. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with cured meats, olives, and cheeses offers variety and complements Italian cuisine beautifully.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms can be a delightful starter that pairs nicely with the soup’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using low-quality sausage – Choosing low-quality sausage can lead to a bland soup. Opt for fresh, flavorful Italian sausage for a richer taste.
• Overcooking the tortellini – Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow the package instructions and add it just before serving.
• Skipping the sauté step – Failing to sauté the onions and garlic can result in a lack of depth in flavor. Take the time to sauté for a few minutes before adding other ingredients.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments – Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can leave your soup flat. Always taste and tweak spices before serving.
• Using heavy cream instead of alternatives – While heavy cream adds richness, using lighter alternatives can reduce calories without sacrificing flavor. Consider half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands 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, cover loosely, and microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop – Pour soup into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup that might help you out!

What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy dish made with Italian sausage, tortellini pasta, and vegetables like kale. It’s hearty and perfect for chilly nights.

Can I substitute kale in my Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Yes! If you prefer a milder taste, spinach works well as a substitute for kale. You can also use Swiss chard or even arugula.

How do I make my Sausage Tortellini Soup thicker?

To thicken your soup, consider adding more flour during cooking or let it simmer longer to reduce liquid. You could also blend part of the soup for added creaminess.

Is Sausage Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well as leftovers and is great for meal prep. Just store portions in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish that’s both quick and easy to prepare. Its rich flavors make it perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences!