When the weather cools down or when you need a quick and hearty meal, nothing beats a warm bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup. This dish is not only delicious and comforting, but it also comes together quickly with minimal prep time. In just 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is packed with flavor, thanks to the ground Italian sausage, fresh kale, and a rich creamy broth. The combination of spices, including basil, oregano, and a hint of heat from cayenne and hot sauce, takes this soup to the next level. Plus, the addition of tortellini makes it a complete meal in a bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create a delectable and hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s important to gather all the necessary ingredients to ensure a flavorful and satisfying meal. Below is a detailed list of what you’ll need, along with some insights into each ingredient’s role in the soup.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild): The star of this soup, the ground Italian sausage provides a rich and savory flavor base. Depending on your heat preference, you can choose hot sausage for a spicier kick or mild sausage for a more subtle flavor. The sausage is typically seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Onions are a foundational ingredient in many soups and stews, adding sweetness and depth to the flavor. A small yellow onion works perfectly here, as it caramelizes beautifully and contributes to the overall aroma and taste of the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a delightful pungency and depth to the dish. Its aromatic qualities elevate the flavor profile, making the soup more enticing. Fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use pre-minced garlic if you’re short on time.
- 3 tablespoons flour: This ingredient serves as a thickening agent for the soup. By cooking the flour with the sausage and onion, you’ll create a roux that helps to achieve a creamy consistency in the final dish. The flour also absorbs some of the fat and juices from the sausage, enriching the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil is a classic herb in Italian cuisine and lends a sweet, peppery flavor that complements the sausage and adds an herbal note to the soup. Dried basil is used in this recipe, but you can substitute fresh basil for a more vibrant flavor; just increase the amount to about three times the dried measurement.
- ½ teaspoon oregano: Oregano adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the sausage. This herb is often used in Italian dishes, making it a perfect addition to this soup.
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional): If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor profile without overwhelming the dish. This spice brings a subtle warmth that enhances the overall experience of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce: A splash of hot sauce adds a tangy flavor and complements the richness of the soup. It’s an easy way to adjust the spice level to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or leave it out altogether.
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder: Though subtle, mustard powder adds a unique depth to the soup, enhancing the other flavors. It provides a slight tanginess that pairs well with the creaminess of the broth.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a warm spiciness that elevates the dish. It’s essential to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes: Similar to cayenne, red pepper flakes provide an additional layer of heat and flavor. Use them sparingly, as they can add a significant amount of spice, depending on your taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream is what makes this soup luxuriously rich and creamy. It balances the flavors and adds a velvety texture. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk, but the soup will not be as rich.
- 5 cups chicken broth: Chicken broth serves as the base of the soup, providing moisture and flavor. You can use homemade broth for a fresher taste, or opt for store-bought to save time. Low-sodium broth is a good choice if you want to control the saltiness of the final dish.
- 2 cups kale, chopped: Kale is a nutrient-dense green that adds a lovely texture and a pop of color to the soup. It’s also a great source of vitamins A, C, and K. Be sure to chop the kale into bite-sized pieces so it cooks down nicely in the soup.
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen, just under 10 oz.): The tortellini adds heartiness and substance to the soup, making it a complete meal. You can choose cheese-filled or meat-filled tortellini, depending on your preference. If using frozen tortellini, no need to thaw; just add them directly to the pot.
- Salt, to taste: Finally, don’t forget to season your soup with salt! Starting with about ¼ teaspoon and adjusting as necessary ensures you get the perfect flavor balance. Salt enhances all the other flavors in the soup and is crucial for bringing out the richness of the broth and cream.
Cooking Instructions
Creating a delightful Sausage Tortellini Soup is straightforward and requires only a few key steps. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure that every flavor comes together perfectly for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Prepare the Sausage: Start by removing the casings from the ground Italian sausage if you’ve purchased it in link form. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat it over medium-high heat. Once the pot is hot, add the crumbled sausage along with the diced yellow onion. Cook these together for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and soft and the sausage is browned and fully cooked. This step builds a rich flavor base for the soup. Make sure to drain any excess grease from the pot to keep the soup from becoming overly greasy.
- Add Garlic and Flour: Once the sausage and onion are cooked, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Next, sprinkle in the flour. Stir it in and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. This process, known as making a roux, helps eliminate the raw flour taste while thickening the soup, giving it a creamy consistency.
- Season the Soup: After the flour is incorporated, it’s time to add the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until the spices are evenly distributed and fragrant. This step is crucial for layering flavors that will meld beautifully during cooking.
- Incorporate the Broth and Cream: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine, using a silicone spatula to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—these bits are packed with flavor and contribute to the overall taste of the soup. Once the broth is incorporated, slowly stir in the heavy cream, which will add a rich and velvety texture to the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Add Kale and Tortellini: With the broth at a simmer, add the chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini requires a longer cooking time (check the package for specific instructions), you can add the tortellini first, allowing it to cook for a few minutes before adding the kale. The kale will only need a short time to wilt and soften, so adding it toward the end ensures it maintains some texture and nutrients.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After the soup has simmered and the tortellini is tender, taste the soup. This is your chance to adjust the seasoning. Start by adding about ¼ teaspoon of salt, stirring it in and tasting again. You can add more salt as needed, depending on your preference and the saltiness of the broth you used.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot Sausage Tortellini Soup into bowls. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. This soup pairs excellently with crusty garlic bread with cheese for dipping, making for a comforting and complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize Your Greens: While kale is a nutritious choice, you can substitute it with other greens like spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just be sure to add delicate greens like spinach toward the end of cooking, as they wilt quickly.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to experiment with the spices according to your taste preferences. Adding a dash of Italian seasoning or using different types of hot sauce can provide a unique twist to the soup.
- Leftovers and Storage: This soup is great for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream, as the tortellini may absorb some liquid over time.
With these detailed cooking instructions, you’ll be well on your way to making a delicious pot of Sausage Tortellini Soup that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction of this cozy dish!
Nutritional Benefits
This soup isn’t just comforting; it also packs a nutritional punch. The kale adds a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, and K, while the Italian sausage provides protein and flavor. The tortellini adds carbohydrates for energy, making this soup a balanced meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Sausage Tortellini Soup is also a great option for meal prepping. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick lunch or dinner.
Conclusion
This Sausage Tortellini Soup recipe is an excellent addition to your collection of comforting meals. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and satisfying for the whole family. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Try it today and make it a staple in your home-cooked meal repertoire!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have tortellini?
You can substitute tortellini with other types of pasta, such as rotini or penne, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
Can I freeze Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to add the tortellini just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy when thawed.
Enjoy your homemade Sausage Tortellini Soup, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family!
