Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

When you’re craving a rich, hearty, and flavorful soup, this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with savory beef sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh kale, this soup is comfort food at its best. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a special gathering, this soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup. First, it’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for those busy nights when you want a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of beef sausage, creamy broth, and cheese-filled tortellini creates a rich and comforting dish that’s hard to resist. Plus, the addition of kale adds a nutritious touch, balancing out the richness of the soup. This recipe is also highly adaptable, so you can adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s explore the key ingredients that make this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup so delicious:

• beef Sausage (1 pound, hot or mild): The foundation of the soup’s savory flavor. You can choose between hot or mild sausage depending on your spice preference. Removing the casings from sausage links before cooking is recommended.
• Small Yellow Onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup as it cooks with the sausage.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, aromatic flavor that complements the sausage perfectly.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 tablespoons): Helps thicken the soup, giving it a rich and creamy texture.
• Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) and Oregano (½ teaspoon): Classic Italian herbs that add depth and earthiness to the broth.
• Cayenne Pepper (1 pinch, optional): Adds a subtle heat. Adjust or omit based on your spice preference.
• Hot Sauce (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor without making the soup overly spicy. A small amount adds just the right kick.
• Mustard Powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang that enhances the other flavors in the soup.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) and Red Pepper Flakes (1 pinch): Season the soup, adding a bit of heat and complexity.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup): Creates the creamy base of the soup, adding richness and smoothness.
• Chicken Broth (5 cups): Forms the base of the soup, providing a savory, flavorful liquid. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Kale (2 cups, chopped): Adds a nutritious, slightly bitter element that balances the richness of the soup. You can use other greens like spinach as a substitute.
• Tortellini (2 cups, just under 10 oz.): Cheese-filled tortellini make the soup hearty and satisfying. You can use refrigerated or frozen tortellini; adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Salt: Add to taste at the end to enhance all the flavors. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage and Onions:
Start by removing the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the sausage and diced onions. Cook, breaking up the sausage as it browns, until the sausage is fully cooked and the onions are softened—about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain any excess grease from the pot to avoid an oily soup.

2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

3. Incorporate the Flour and Spices:
Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This step also helps to thicken the soup. Then, add the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir until all the spices are well incorporated, ensuring that the flour mixture absorbs the flavors.

4. Add the Broth and Cream:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this adds extra flavor to the soup. Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.

5. Add the Kale and Tortellini:
Once the soup is simmering, add the chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until the tortellini are cooked through and the kale is tender. If you’re using frozen tortellini, you may need to cook it a bit longer. If the tortellini requires a longer cooking time, add it to the soup first, then add the kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt if needed. Start with ¼ teaspoon and adjust to your preference. Once seasoned to your liking, ladle the soup into serving bowls and enjoy. This soup is especially delicious when served with a side of Garlic Bread with Cheese or a simple salad.

Tips for Perfect Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Prevent Curdling: To prevent the cream from curdling, ensure the soup isn’t boiling after adding the heavy cream. A gentle simmer is all you need to cook the tortellini and kale.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: The combination of cayenne, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes provides a gentle heat. Adjust these spices according to your taste or omit them if you prefer a milder soup.
• Enhancing Flavor: Don’t skip the mustard powder and hot sauce, even if you’re hesitant. These ingredients subtly enhance the soup’s flavor without being overpowering.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is rich and satisfying on its own, but here are some ideas to make it an even more enjoyable meal:

• Side Dishes: Serve the soup with Garlic Bread with Cheese, crusty bread, or a simple Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Garnishes: Top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
• Presentation Tips: Serve the soup in rustic bowls to complement its hearty nature. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprig of fresh herbs for an elegant touch.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:

• Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for evenly cooking the soup.
• Silicone Spatula: Useful for scraping the bottom of the pot and stirring the soup.
• Ladle: For serving the soup into bowls.
• Whisk: To mix the flour into the sausage mixture without lumps.
• Knife and Chopping Board: Essential for preparing the onions, garlic, and kale.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup stores well, making it great for leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly after freezing.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or cream to reach the desired consistency.

Recipe Variations

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Turkey Sausage: Substitute the beef sausage with ground turkey sausage for a leaner option. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a vegetarian sausage alternative and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to make a meat-free version of the soup.
• More Vegetables: Add extra vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini and a gluten-free flour blend to make the soup suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with other pasta shapes like ravioli or gnocchi. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is cooked through.

How long does the soup last in the fridge?
The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen kale. Add it directly to the soup during the last few minutes of cooking, just as you would with fresh kale.

Conclusion

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this soup is sure to impress. The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and creamy broth makes for an unforgettable meal. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, subscribe to our blog for more delicious and comforting dishes!

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