Sausage Tortellini Soup

A warm bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This rich and creamy soup combines tender cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and fresh kale in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs creates a deliciously satisfying taste.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream elevates the soup, giving it a velvety finish that you’ll love.
• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or served with crusty bread as an appetizer.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the sausage and vitamins from the kale, this soup is both hearty and healthy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Sausage Tortellini Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Wooden spoon
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot: Ideal for making soups as it allows ample space for ingredients to cook evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, ensuring a well-mixed dish.

Ingredients

A rich and creamy soup combining cheese tortellini, Italian sausage, and fresh kale in a tomato-based broth, ready in just 30 minutes.

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• ½ bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and brown for 3-5 minutes while breaking it up into smaller pieces. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Next, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Whisk in the all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute until it turns light brown; this will help thicken your soup.

Step 4: Combine Liquids

Add the tomato sauce and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Cook Tortellini

Stir in the cheese tortellini. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until tortellini is tender.

Step 6: Finish with Greens

Finally, stir in chopped kale until wilted—about 1-2 minutes. Add heavy cream and chopped basil, heating through for another minute. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking to enhance the flavors or pair it with something special, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan over the soup for added richness and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Loaf: Serve with slices of warm sourdough bread for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Offer garlic breadsticks for a tasty side that complements the soup’s flavors.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Chicken: Top your bowl with sliced grilled chicken for an extra protein boost.
• Crumbled Bacon: Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the soup for a smoky touch.

Serve with a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

Creating the perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup involves attention to detail and a few helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh kale and high-quality Italian sausage for maximum flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as needed to suit your preference.
• Cook Tortellini Al Dente: Follow package instructions to ensure tortellini retains its texture during cooking.
• Add Cream Gradually: Stir in heavy cream at the end to maintain its creamy texture without curdling.
• Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving; this enhances the flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

When enjoying Sausage Tortellini Soup, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic reduction offer a light contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients alongside the soup.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch to your meal.
5. Spinach Artichoke Dip: This creamy dip can be served as an appetizer before enjoying your soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad brings another layer of flavor and texture to your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to brown the sausage can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown the sausage thoroughly for better taste.

• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can result in a bland soup. Taste your broth throughout the cooking process and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Not prepping ingredients in advance can slow you down. Chop your veggies and measure out your ingredients before starting.

• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness a minute early.

• Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh basil will reduce flavor complexity. Add fresh herbs at the end for maximum aroma and taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover soup in a baking dish, and heat until warm.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.

• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup that you might find helpful.

What makes Sausage Tortellini Soup creamy?

The addition of heavy cream towards the end of cooking gives this soup its rich, creamy texture that balances well with other flavors.

Can I use different pasta in Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Yes! While tortellini is traditional, you can substitute with any small pasta like ditalini or shells for a different texture.

How do I customize Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or carrots, or even swap out kale for another leafy green based on your preference!

Is Sausage Tortellini Soup healthy?

This soup is nutritious thanks to its ingredients, but portion control is key. Enjoy it as part of a balanced diet for best results.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor. Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!