Sausage Tortellini Soup

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a flavorful bowl filled with tender tortellini, hearty greens, and a rich broth that will warm your soul. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, this soup stands out with its creamy texture and aromatic seasonings—making it a dish everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices and cream creates a deliciously rich soup.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with kale and protein, this dish is both satisfying and healthy.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter; it’s great for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the creamy texture and comforting flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious soup, having the right tools on hand makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

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: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all ingredients comfortably.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware’s surface.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient quantities for perfectly balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30-minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!

Protein

• 1 pound ground chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage (hot or mild)

Vegetables

• 1 small yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups kale (chopped)

Seasonings and Spices

• 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

Liquids

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 cups chicken broth

Pasta

• 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. refrigerated or frozen)

To Taste

• Salt/ to taste

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions

Cook and crumble the ground chicken sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions become softened and the sausage is thoroughly cooked, about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess grease before proceeding.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle in the flour while stirring continuously. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.

Step 4: Season the Soup

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

Step 5: Add Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer with Kale and Tortellini

Add chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Let it simmer uncovered for about 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini takes longer to cook, add it first before adding kale during the last few minutes of cooking.

Step 7: Season to Taste

Taste your soup and add salt as desired—start with about ¼ teaspoon—and adjust further if needed.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle your delicious soup into bowls and serve immediately! This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with garlic bread topped with cheese for an extra special touch. Enjoy!

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup

Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be complemented with various accompaniments. This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with both light and hearty sides, enhancing the meal’s overall flavor and satisfaction.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic Bread with Cheese: A classic choice, this bread complements the soup perfectly with its buttery garlic flavor and cheesy goodness.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and parmesan adds a refreshing crunch alongside the soup.
• Italian Chopped Salad: A mix of fresh vegetables, olives, and cheese offers a vibrant contrast to the rich soup.

Include Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Its tangy flavor and chewy texture make it an excellent option for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Focaccia: Soft and fluffy, this Italian bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley or Basil: Sprinkling fresh herbs on top adds bright flavors and a pop of color to your serving.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

To elevate your Sausage Tortellini Soup, consider these simple yet effective tips that enhance its taste and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will bring out the best flavors in your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt or spices gradually ensures the perfect balance.
• Consider Adding Spinach: For extra greens, add spinach along with the kale for added nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with Broth Types: Using homemade chicken broth can significantly enhance the richness of your soup.
• Garnish Generously: Topping your soup with grated cheese or fresh herbs enhances both presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup

Complementing your Sausage Tortellini Soup with side dishes can turn a simple meal into something special. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil makes for a flavorful starter.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create an easy-to-eat side.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with quinoa or rice provide a healthy side that pairs well with the creamy soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add depth to your meal.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad tossed in vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These soft knots are perfect for dipping in the soup while adding cheesy goodness to every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sausage Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them for a delicious outcome.

• Incorrect Sausage Type: Using the wrong type of sausage can alter the flavor. Always choose ground chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage for the best results.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to add seasonings like basil and oregano can leave your soup bland. Ensure you measure and add these ingredients for depth of flavor.
• Overcooking Tortellini: Cooking tortellini too long makes it mushy. Follow package instructions closely and adjust based on your soup’s cooking time.
• Ignoring Cream Addition Timing: Adding cream too early can cause it to curdle. Stir it in after bringing the broth to a simmer for a smooth texture.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Failing to taste your soup before serving may lead to unbalanced flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, keeping some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a covered dish, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in increments of 1 minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy, hearty dish made with ground chicken sausage, tortellini, kale, and flavorful seasonings.

Can I customize my Sausage Tortellini Soup?

Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or carrots, or change the type of greens based on your preference.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How long does it take to make Sausage Tortellini Soup?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a quick meal.

Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use refrigerated or frozen tortellini; just adjust cooking times as necessary.

Conclusion

This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick but also adaptable. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with different veggies or spices to suit your taste!

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