Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then the Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is your new best friend. This bowlful of comfort mixes the spicy, savory goodness of Italian sausage with pillowy tortellini and nutrient-packed kale, all simmered in a creamy, herb-infused broth that delights every spoonful. Not only does it come together quickly, but it’s also loaded with layers of flavor and texture that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this soup is a total winner in both simplicity and heartiness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients you’re likely already familiar with. Each item on this list plays a special role—whether it’s adding spice, creaminess, or a vibrant pop of green—that lifts the whole dish into something truly memorable.

• Ground Italian sausage (1 pound): Choose hot or mild based on your spice preference; it’s the flavorful protein base that brings richness.
• Yellow onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the sausage.
• Garlic, minced (3 cloves): A must-have for that irresistible aromatic punch.
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Used to create the roux, thickening the broth beautifully.
• Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Brings in the classic Italian herb fragrance.
• Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Adds an earthy, slightly bitter layer of herbal flavor.
• Cayenne pepper (a pinch, optional): Gives a subtle kick if you want a little heat.
• Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Amplifies the spiciness and brightens the broth.
• Mustard powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a hidden depth and slight tanginess.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Provides mild spice to enhance other flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (a pinch): For an extra touch of heat and texture.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the soup its luxurious, silky texture and mellow flavor.
• Chicken broth (5 cups): The savory liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.
• Chopped kale (2 cups): Offers a lovely green color and a nutritious boost.
• Tortellini (2 cups, refrigerated or frozen): The tender pasta that soaks up the flavorful broth.
• Salt: To taste, enhancing all the other yummy ingredients.

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions

Start by removing the casings from the sausage if necessary. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground Italian sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions are tender. Be sure to drain off any excess grease so the soup stays rich but not greasy. Stir in the garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. This step builds the foundational savory flavors of your soup and gets your kitchen smelling amazing.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour evenly over the sausage and onion mixture. Stir constantly for about 1 to 2 minutes—it’s important to cook the flour so it loses its raw taste and starts to thicken your soup. This little step transforms the broth into a creamy, luscious base without needing heavy cream alone.

Step 3: Add Spices and Herbs

Mix in the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper if you’re using it, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. These spices create a beautiful complexity, balancing warmth, freshness, and just the right hint of heat. Feel free to adjust any of these to suit your personal taste—this soup truly loves a bit of customization.

Step 4: Create the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, carefully scraping the bottom of the pot with your spoon to release any flavorful browned bits stuck to the surface. Then, slowly stir in the heavy cream to meld richness and lightness. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer so all these wonderful flavors have time to blend and the soup starts to thicken.

Step 5: Add Tortellini and Kale

Now the fun part: add the tortellini directly into the pot and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes or according to your pasta’s package instructions, until they’re tender and cooked through. Add the chopped kale during the last five minutes to wilt it just right without losing its vibrant color or nutritional goodness.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste your creation and add salt as needed to perfectly round out the flavors. Ladle the hot, comforting soup into bowls along with a slice of crusty or garlic bread—because it’s impossible not to dunk. This final step prepares you to dive into a meal that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful.

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Top off your bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a handful of torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and a touch of extra flavor. A drizzle of olive oil or a dusting of cracked black pepper also makes a lovely finishing touch, enhancing both the look and the taste of your soup.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement its robust flavors. Think warm garlic bread for dunking or a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Even a side of roasted vegetables would round out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, serve the Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe in mini soup crocks or even hollowed-out bread bowls for extra charm. You could transform leftovers into a hearty pasta bake by layering the soup with extra cheese and baking it until golden and bubbly. Presentation can be an effortless way to amp up the excitement surrounding this crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Sausage Tortellini Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners that require minimal effort.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but keep in mind that tortellini can change texture slightly after thawing. For best results, you might freeze the broth and sausage mixture separately and add fresh tortellini when reheating. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring often so it warms evenly without burning. If you froze the broth separately, add fresh tortellini when the soup is hot and cook until tender. A little extra splash of broth or cream can revive the soup’s creamy consistency if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives this soup its classic flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage or even spicy chorizo for a completely different twist. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to balance the flavors.

Is this soup gluten-free?

This recipe includes all-purpose flour and tortellini, which generally contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux and gluten-free tortellini varieties, widely available in many stores these days.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can! Swap the sausage for plant-based meat alternatives or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs plenty of umami and texture.

How spicy is the soup?

The spice level can be easily adjusted. The cayenne, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes add heat, but they are optional, so you can leave them out or reduce the quantities for a milder soup that still tastes fantastic.

Can I use frozen kale or spinach instead of fresh kale?

Yes, frozen kale or spinach works well too. Just add it a little earlier in the cooking process so it has time to thaw and wilt properly without overcooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe—it’s a beautiful blend of comfort, flavor, and convenience that makes it a weeknight favorite or a special meal any day of the week. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the magic of its creamy broth, hearty sausage, and tender tortellini all in one delicious spoonful. You might just find your next signature soup right here!

Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 10 servings 1x

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Description

This comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale in a creamy, flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup is hearty yet easy to make in just 30 minutes, delivering rich herbs and a subtle kick of spice.

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Ingredients

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Meat and Vegetables

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chopped kale

Dry Ingredients and Spices

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Texas Pete or Frank’s)
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste

Liquids and Pasta

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)

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Instructions

1. Brown Sausage and Onions: Remove casings from the sausage if necessary. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground Italian sausage and diced yellow onion over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Make Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the sausage mixture and stir constantly, cooking for 1-2 minutes to create a roux that will thicken the soup.
3. Add Spices and Herbs: Stir in dried basil, oregano, optional cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to infuse the soup with rich flavors and a touch of heat.
4. Create Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Add Tortellini and Kale: Add the tortellini and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or according to package directions. Incorporate the chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking to wilt it perfectly without overcooking.
6. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.

Notes

• Use either hot or mild Italian sausage depending on your spice preference.
• For a thicker soup, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour when making the roux.
• If you prefer, substitute kale with spinach or swiss chard.
• To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and flour alternative.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American