Sausage Tortellini Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that combines the warmth of Italian sausage with tender tortellini and nutrient-rich kale in a creamy, savory broth. This comforting soup is packed with bold flavors and a hint of spice, making it an ideal choice for cold days or when you’re craving a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. The combination of rich, creamy broth and perfectly seasoned sausage gives it an irresistible depth of flavor, while tortellini adds a satisfying, filling element that makes it more than just a simple soup.
This recipe’s adaptability makes it easy to tailor to different tastes and dietary needs. Adjust the spices to create a milder or spicier version, swap ingredients based on availability, or even make it gluten-free or dairy-free. With minimal preparation and a quick cooking process, Sausage Tortellini Soup offers a restaurant-quality meal that’s achievable in any kitchen. Whether served with crusty bread or topped with Parmesan, it’s bound to become a favorite family dish.
Ingredients Breakdown
Each ingredient in Sausage Tortellini Soup brings a unique layer of flavor and texture, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dish. Here’s a closer look at each component:
- Ground Italian Sausage: The sausage is the heart of this soup’s flavor profile. Opt for mild or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference. The sausage’s fat and seasoning infuse the soup with a savory depth, complemented by the other ingredients.
- Yellow Onion: Diced and sautéed with the sausage, yellow onion provides a subtle sweetness that mellows as it cooks, forming a flavorful base for the soup.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a rich, aromatic note that enhances the dish’s complexity. A few cloves are enough to provide a strong flavor without overpowering the soup.
- Flour: Flour is lightly cooked with the sausage mixture, acting as a thickener that gives the broth a slightly creamy consistency.
- Spices (Basil, Oregano, Cayenne, Mustard Powder, Black Pepper): These spices work together to deliver a balanced, Italian-inspired flavor. Basil and oregano add a classic herbal touch, cayenne provides optional heat, mustard powder introduces a slight tang, and black pepper adds a gentle spice.
- Heavy Cream: The heavy cream gives the soup its luxurious texture, transforming the broth into a rich, creamy base that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage and spices.
- Chicken Broth: Chicken broth is used to build the body of the soup, adding both moisture and depth. Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Kale: Chopped kale brings a nutritional boost and a pleasant, slightly chewy texture. It also adds color, balancing the soup’s richness with its fresh, earthy flavor.
- Tortellini: This pasta, filled with cheese or meat, makes the soup more substantial and filling. Both refrigerated and frozen tortellini work well; choose based on cooking time and availability.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavors in the soup. Start with a small amount and adjust at the end for balanced seasoning, as the sausage and broth already add some saltiness.
Each ingredient plays a vital role, creating a soup that’s flavorful, balanced, and comforting.
Preparing the Soup Base
The base of Sausage Tortellini Soup begins with cooking the sausage and onions together, creating a foundation of deep, savory flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide for perfect results:
- Cooking the Sausage and Onion: Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. If using sausage links, remove the casings to allow for easy crumbling as the sausage cooks. This ensures the meat breaks up into small, even pieces, which blend better with the soup.
- Crumbling for Even Cooking: As the sausage cooks, use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it up into bite-sized crumbles. Smaller, consistent pieces allow each bite to have an even distribution of sausage, enhancing the soup’s texture and flavor.
- Browning for Extra Flavor: Allow the sausage to brown slightly before adding the onions. This browning process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates caramelized, flavorful bits that intensify the soup’s overall taste. Avoid stirring too frequently to let the sausage develop a golden crust.
- Draining Excess Grease: Once the sausage is browned and the onions are softened, drain any excess grease from the pot. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced soup without overly greasy textures, ensuring the creamy broth remains smooth and pleasant.
Preparing the sausage and onions correctly lays the groundwork for a delicious, hearty soup that’s rich in depth and balanced in flavor.
Building Flavor with Garlic and Spices
After cooking the sausage and onions, it’s time to build depth with garlic and a blend of spices. Adding these seasonings at this stage allows their flavors to develop, enhancing the soup’s richness.
- Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about a minute until fragrant. Garlic is essential in layering flavor; its sharp, aromatic qualities mellow slightly when heated, adding warmth and complexity to the soup without overpowering it.
- Basil and Oregano: These classic Italian herbs provide a foundational flavor reminiscent of traditional Italian cooking. Basil’s sweet, slightly peppery taste and oregano’s earthy, savory notes pair well with the sausage and tortellini, creating a harmonious Italian essence in the soup.
- Cayenne and Hot Sauce (Optional): For a hint of heat, a pinch of cayenne and a dash of hot sauce add subtle spice. This optional addition gives the soup a lively kick that complements the rich sausage without overwhelming it, making it customizable to spice preference.
- Mustard Powder: A small amount of mustard powder adds a unique depth with its tangy, slightly bitter undertone. It enhances the flavor of the sausage, providing a subtle background note that lifts the entire dish.
- Black Pepper: The touch of black pepper adds warmth and a hint of spice, balancing the creamy broth and enhancing the other seasonings.
Each spice and herb in this soup brings its own character, working together to enrich the broth and highlight the sausage and tortellini. This careful layering of flavors results in a well-rounded, savory soup that’s full of complexity.
Adding Broth and Cream for the Soup’s Body
Once the sausage, onions, garlic, and spices are well-combined, it’s time to build the soup’s body with chicken broth and heavy cream. This combination creates a rich, creamy base that holds the flavors together beautifully.
- Pouring in Chicken Broth: Begin by pouring in the chicken broth, which not only adds moisture but also deglazes the pan. This step is crucial, as it loosens any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, infusing the soup with even more flavor. Gently scrape the pot’s bottom to ensure these caramelized pieces mix into the broth, enhancing the depth.
- Adding Heavy Cream: Once the broth is well-mixed, slowly stir in the heavy cream. Adding it gradually allows the cream to blend smoothly, preventing separation and ensuring a consistent, velvety texture throughout the soup.
- Adjusting Ratios: To achieve the desired consistency, adjust the broth and cream ratio to taste. For a thicker, creamier soup, increase the cream slightly; for a lighter texture, add a bit more broth. These adjustments make the soup fully customizable to personal preference.
This step creates a balanced, creamy base that perfectly complements the savory sausage and fresh tortellini.
Adding Kale and Tortellini
With the broth and cream simmering, it’s time to add the kale and tortellini, two ingredients that provide texture, color, and nutritional value.
- Choosing and Preparing the Kale: For this soup, opt for curly or Tuscan kale, both of which hold their shape well during cooking. Curly kale has a slightly more bitter taste, while Tuscan kale (also known as Lacinato or dinosaur kale) is milder with a darker color. Before adding to the soup, wash the kale thoroughly, remove the tough stems, and chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
- Adding the Tortellini: Add the tortellini along with the kale, as both ingredients cook quickly. If using refrigerated tortellini, it should take about 3-5 minutes to become tender. Frozen tortellini may require a few additional minutes. Be mindful not to overcook the tortellini; it should be tender but still slightly firm to hold up well in the creamy broth.
- Alternative Greens: If you prefer a milder flavor or want a quicker-cooking option, spinach can be used as a substitute for kale. Add spinach in the final minute of cooking, as it wilts quickly and doesn’t require as much time in the soup.
This step completes the soup, adding vibrant greens and hearty pasta to balance the creamy broth and savory sausage.
Seasoning and Adjustments
Once the soup is fully assembled, take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning to ensure a balanced, flavorful finish.
- Adjusting Salt: Start by tasting for salt, as the sausage and chicken broth may already add enough. If needed, add salt in small increments, stirring and tasting as you go, to avoid over-salting. Begin with about 1/4 teaspoon and adjust based on preference.
- Balancing Spice Levels: For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne and hot sauce. This keeps the soup savory without excessive heat, appealing to those with a milder palate. Conversely, if you prefer a spicier soup, add a dash of cayenne or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the heat gradually.
- Flavor Tips: If the soup feels too heavy, a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors without overwhelming the richness. For added depth, consider a pinch of black pepper or fresh herbs like parsley or basil as a garnish.
Fine-tuning the seasoning ensures every bowl of soup is as satisfying and flavorful as possible, tailored to individual tastes.
Serving the Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup is best served piping hot in generous bowls, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. Enhance the presentation and flavor with a few thoughtful garnishes and side options.
- Garnish Options: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory note that pairs beautifully with the creamy broth. Fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or basil, offer a pop of color and a refreshing herbal aroma that brightens each bite.
- Toppings Suggestions: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding a dash of cracked black pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. A light drizzle of olive oil can also add richness and a finishing touch to each bowl.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve the soup with crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up the creamy broth, or pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s richness.
These accompaniments and garnishes make for a well-rounded, inviting meal that’s both satisfying and visually appealing.
Variations and Substitutions
Sausage Tortellini Soup can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences or flavor profiles, making it a versatile meal that everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free Options: For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk or cashew cream. These options retain the soup’s creamy texture while adding a subtle, complementary flavor. Be mindful that coconut milk may add a slight sweetness, so you might adjust spices to balance it.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly soup. Alternatively, you can skip the sausage altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a hearty, savory base. Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian option.
- Tortellini Fillings: Tortellini comes in various fillings, allowing you to tailor the soup’s flavor. Cheese-filled tortellini is a classic choice, providing a mild, creamy filling that complements the broth. Spinach or mushroom-filled tortellini can also add depth and nutrition, while meat-filled tortellini creates a richer, more robust flavor.
- Spice Substitutions: Adjust the spice blend to suit your taste. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding thyme or rosemary in place of basil. Smoked paprika can add warmth in place of cayenne, and a dash of Italian seasoning can provide a well-rounded herbal note.
These substitutions allow you to customize the soup to match dietary needs and personal preferences, making it a flexible and inclusive recipe for any table.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
Properly storing and reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup ensures it remains delicious and maintains its texture.
- Storing Leftovers: Once the soup has cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The soup will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If the soup thickens as it cools, you can add a splash of broth or water when reheating to reach the desired consistency.
- Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating. If using a microwave, reheat in short intervals, stirring between each to maintain even heat and texture.
- Freezing Tips: To freeze, transfer the cooled soup to a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop. Add a bit of extra broth or cream as needed to restore the original texture.
Following these steps helps retain the soup’s creamy, rich flavors even after storage.
FAQs Section
- Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time, as frozen tortellini may take a few minutes longer to cook than fresh. - What are some alternatives to heavy cream?
For a lighter or dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, cashew cream, or half-and-half, adjusting for desired creaminess. - Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3-4 days; reheat gently before serving. - Is it possible to make the soup spicier/milder?
Yes, customize the heat by adding or reducing cayenne, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes. - What can I pair with this soup for a complete meal?
Serve with crusty bread, a green salad, or a side of garlic bread for a well-rounded, hearty meal.
Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish featuring spicy or mild Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutrient-rich kale in a spiced cream broth. Perfect for cold weather, this soup is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s easy to make and full of savory Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups tortellini (about 10 ounces, refrigerated or frozen)
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook Sausage and Onion: If using sausage links, remove the casings. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the sausage with the diced onions until the sausage is fully cooked and the onions are softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2️⃣ Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add Flour and Seasonings: Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture, stirring well, and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Add basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat the sausage mixture.
4️⃣ Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5️⃣ Add Kale and Tortellini: Add the kale and tortellini, simmering for 3-5 minutes or until the tortellini is tender. (If your tortellini requires a longer cooking time, add it first and add the kale in the last 5 minutes.)
6️⃣ Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and add salt as needed, starting with 1/4 teaspoon and adjusting to taste.
7️⃣ Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy this rich and creamy soup with a sprinkle of Parmesan or crusty bread if desired.
Notes
- For extra spice: Increase the cayenne pepper or add more red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier soup.
- Substitute kale: Swap kale with spinach or Swiss chard for a slightly different flavor and texture.
- Tortellini Options: Cheese tortellini is classic, but feel free to try meat- or spinach-filled tortellini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6