Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending rich, savory flavors with hearty textures. This dish features the bold taste of Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and earthy kale in a luxurious, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a comforting family dinner, this soup is as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Let’s walk through every step to create this delicious masterpiece.
Servings
- Yield: 4–6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
Main Components
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 5 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups refrigerated tortellini (just under 10 oz)
Seasonings and Aromatics
- 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
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Sausage and Onions
- If using sausage links, remove the casings.
- In a large pot, cook the ground sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is browned and fully cooked (about 8–10 minutes).
- Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy soup base.
2. Sauté the Garlic
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Create the Roux
- Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup.
4. Add Seasonings
- Stir in the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine the flavors with the sausage.
5. Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth gradually, using a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds depth to the flavor.
- Slowly stir in the heavy cream for a rich, velvety texture. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Incorporate the Kale and Tortellini
- Add the chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Let them cook for 3–5 minutes until the tortellini is tender and the kale is wilted.
- Tip: If your tortellini requires more cooking time, add it first and then the kale during the last 5 minutes.
7. Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste the soup and add salt as needed, starting with 1/4 teaspoon. Adjust according to your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
Enhancing the Flavor
- Don’t skip the mustard powder and hot sauce, even if you’re hesitant—they subtly enhance the other flavors without overpowering the soup.
- For an even creamier soup, substitute half of the heavy cream with cream cheese.
Substitutions
- Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Kale Alternatives: Spinach or Swiss chard work well if kale isn’t available.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour and tortellini.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the soup thickens.
Substitutions and Variations
Add Vegetables
- Mushrooms, diced zucchini, or carrots can add more texture and nutrients to the soup.
Spice it Up
- Add extra cayenne pepper or crushed chili flakes for more heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the soup base without the tortellini and kale. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the tortellini and kale when reheating to ensure they remain fresh and vibrant.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini and kale. The cream can separate slightly upon reheating, but stirring well will bring it back together. Add fresh tortellini and kale when reheating.
3. What pairs well with this soup?
Garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or even a light tomato bruschetta complements the rich flavors of this soup beautifully.
4. Can I use dried tortellini?
Yes, dried tortellini can be used, but adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household. With its velvety texture, bold flavors, and wholesome ingredients, every spoonful is pure delight. Serve it alongside garlic bread for the ultimate indulgence, and watch it become a family staple!