Sausage Tortellini Soup
Indulge in the warmth of our creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a delightful dish that combines savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale in a luscious broth. This soup is perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights, offering rich flavors and simple preparation. Within just 30 minutes, you can serve a meal that pleases everyone at the table. Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete dining experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of Italian sausage and creamy broth offers a comforting taste that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize your soup with different greens or types of tortellini to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This Sausage Tortellini Soup stores well, making it great for meal prep or easy lunches throughout the week.
- Family-Friendly Dish: With its hearty ingredients and delicious flavors, this recipe is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, having the right tools will ensure a seamless cooking experience. Here’s what you need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and accommodating all ingredients comfortably.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even mixing.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the best flavor balance in your soup.
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
- 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 browned. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Flour and Spices
Stir in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until it’s lightly golden. Then add dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well to combine the flavors.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Slowly mix in heavy cream. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Let them simmer for about 3–5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings as necessary based on your preference. Serve hot and enjoy!
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup can enhance its flavors and make your dining experience even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic bread is a classic side that complements the creamy soup perfectly, adding a crunchy texture and rich flavor.
Fresh Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup, refreshing your palate.
Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup before serving for an added layer of savory goodness.
Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread for dipping into the soup; it absorbs the broth beautifully and enhances each bite.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and flavor, making your dish look as good as it tastes.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Presenting the soup in individual bowls can make for a charming presentation at dinner parties or family gatherings.
How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To elevate your Sausage Tortellini Soup to perfection, consider these helpful tips.
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Use high-quality sausage: Choosing fresh or artisanal Italian sausage can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your soup.
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Adjust seasonings: Taste your soup before serving; feel free to adjust spices and herbs according to your preference for a personalized touch.
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Incorporate fresh vegetables: Adding bell peppers or carrots can introduce new textures and flavors while boosting nutrition.
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Make it ahead: Prepare the soup in advance; it often tastes even better after sitting in the fridge overnight as flavors meld together.
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Experiment with dairy alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk without sacrificing creaminess.
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Add more greens: For extra nutrition, toss in spinach or Swiss chard along with kale for a vibrant color and nutritional boost.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Sausage Tortellini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Consider these options:
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction create a refreshing contrast to the soup.
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Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers; roasting brings out their natural sweetness, balancing the savory flavors of the soup.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and depth alongside your rich soup.
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft bites are perfect for dipping into your creamy broth while delivering irresistible garlic flavor.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasting Brussels sprouts until crispy adds a delightful crunch that complements the softness of tortellini.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Filled with cheese and herbs, stuffed mushrooms provide an earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with Italian-inspired dishes.
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Cornbread Muffins: These slightly sweet muffins offer a nice contrast to the savory notes of the soup and are great for soaking up leftover broth.
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Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters add a crisp texture and freshness that works well with the creamy soup’s richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can enhance your dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Not browning the sausage properly: Failing to brown the sausage well can lead to a less flavorful soup. Make sure to cook it until golden for the best taste.
- Skipping the seasoning: Overlooking spices can make your soup bland. Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper during cooking.
- Using low-quality broth: A poor-quality broth can dull the flavors of your soup. Opt for a rich, flavorful chicken broth for better results.
- Adding tortellini too early: If you add tortellini too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until the soup is almost done before adding it for perfect texture.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables elevate your dish. Use fresh kale and garlic whenever possible for enhanced flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup in airtight containers.
- It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
- The soup will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high 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
Here are some common questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup that you might find helpful.
How can I make Sausage Tortellini Soup healthier?
You can use turkey sausage instead of pork for a leaner option. Adding more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers also boosts nutrition.
Can I use frozen tortellini in my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add it directly to the soup without thawing first; it will cook perfectly as the soup simmers.
What can I serve with Sausage Tortellini Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread for dipping!
Can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap kale with spinach or include other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Sausage Tortellini Soup is not just a comforting meal; it’s a versatile recipe that you can easily customize. Whether you’re using different greens or experimenting with spices, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try tonight and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Main Dishes
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for any occasion. This hearty soup features savory ground Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutrient-packed kale, all simmered in a luscious broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Serve it alongside garlic bread or a fresh salad to create a satisfying meal everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground sausage and diced onions for about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease and add minced garlic; sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in the flour and cook until lightly golden (1–2 minutes). Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, red pepper flakes, and salt.
- Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the pot’s bottom to deglaze. Gradually mix in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for 3–5 minutes until heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
