Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm, comforting soup to soothe the soul, and this Sausage Tortellini Soup is no exception. Perfectly seasoned Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and hearty kale come together in a creamy, flavorful broth to create a dish that’s both filling and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this soup is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights. Let’s dive into the details and bring this delicious soup to your table!

Ingredients Needed

To make this flavorful Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’ll need the following 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
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz, refrigerated or frozen)
• Salt, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Required

Before you begin, make sure you have the following kitchen equipment ready:

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Preparing the Sausage and Onion

Start by removing the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat, add the sausage and diced onions, and cook for about 8-10 minutes, breaking up the sausage into crumbles as it cooks. Continue to sauté until the sausage is fully cooked and the onions are soft and translucent. Drain any excess grease from the pot.

2. Adding the Aromatics and Spices

Once the sausage and onions are cooked, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, sprinkle in the flour and stir well, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste.

3. Creating the Base with Flour and Broth

Stir in the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. This mixture will give the soup its depth of flavor. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring, using a silicone spatula to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot – these add a delicious depth to the soup’s flavor. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

4. Incorporating Cream and Greens

Add the chopped kale to the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes until it begins to wilt. If you prefer a softer texture, allow the kale to cook a little longer.

5. Cooking the Tortellini to Perfection

Next, add the tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and cooked through. If your tortellini requires a longer cooking time, add it before the kale to prevent overcooking. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning by adding salt as needed, starting with ¼ teaspoon and adding more if desired.

Transfer the soup to serving bowls and enjoy hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a side salad!

Tips for Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Flavor Enhancements: Don’t skip the mustard powder and hot sauce – they may seem small, but they add depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor.
• Cooking Tortellini: Be sure to cook the tortellini just until tender. Overcooking can make them mushy.
• Choosing Kale: If you’re not a fan of kale, spinach is a great alternative that cooks quickly and adds a similar texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking Tortellini: Keep an eye on the tortellini to ensure they don’t become too soft. Adding them at the right time is key.
• Skipping Seasonings: The subtle flavors of the mustard powder and hot sauce enhance the soup. Don’t skip these!
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality sausage and tortellini for the best flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or use extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Lighter Option: Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Different Greens: Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Serve with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables.
• Toppings: Add grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
• Presentation Tips: Serve in wide, shallow bowls with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or cracked black pepper on top for an extra touch of color and spice.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs About Sausage Tortellini Soup

• Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
  Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
• Can I make this soup ahead of time?
  Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Prepare it as directed and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Can I freeze this soup?
  Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon freezing and reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the tortellini and add freshly cooked tortellini when reheating.

Conclusion

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food to warm you up on a chilly day or satisfy a crowd at dinner. Packed with flavor and easy to make, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it out, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family! Subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and tips.

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