The Memory Behind This Treat
The first time I made this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, it was one of those crisp autumn evenings when the world feels wrapped in a cozy, golden hue. My family had just returned from a day at the pumpkin patch, cheeks flushed and boots muddied, and I wanted to create something that would warm us from the inside out. The kitchen was already alive with the scents of garlic and onions sizzling in the pan, promising comfort and delight in every bite.
I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, where she often whipped up hearty dishes that seemed to fill both the belly and the soul. Her secret was in the simplicity—a handful of quality ingredients and a generous pinch of love. As I browned the Italian sausage, the aroma transported me back to those weekends spent at her wooden table, where stories were shared, and hearty laughter was the background music.
This soup has become a staple in our home, much like those family gatherings. It’s quick to prepare, yet it feels indulgent with its creamy texture and the rich mix of spices. The kale adds a touch of earthiness, reminding me of the gardens she tended, while the tortellini offers a cheesy surprise that always brings smiles. Whether you’re creating new memories or savoring old ones, this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delicious way to gather loved ones around the table.
How To Make It (Mix & Ingredients)
Creating this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm, comforting blanket. You’ll start by browning 1 pound of Italian sausage with a small diced yellow onion in a large pot over medium-high heat. This step is not just about cooking the sausage; it’s about building a base of flavor with the rendered fat and softened onions. Make sure to crumble the sausage well and allow the onions to turn translucent, a sign that they’ve released their sweetness. Once done, drain the excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Next, introduce the aromatic ingredients: 3 cloves of minced garlic. Let it sizzle until fragrant, about a minute. Sprinkle in 3 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux, thickening the soup and adding a creamy texture. Don’t skip this step; it’s the secret to that luscious consistency.
Step-by-step preparation of the Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Now, it’s time to season. Add 1 teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of oregano, a dash of cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce, ½ teaspoon of mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon of pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Stir them in, and pour in 5 cups of chicken broth. As you stir, use a silicone spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the pot—these are flavor gold.
Slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, and bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer. Add 2 cups of chopped kale and 2 cups of tortellini. Let them cook for 3–5 minutes, just until the tortellini are tender and the kale is softened. Season with salt to taste, starting with ¼ teaspoon. Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or perhaps my easy homemade garlic knots for a complete meal. Enjoy the delightfully creamy, spicy, and herby symphony in every spoonful!
Also Read: Pumpkin Cookies with Cinnamon Frosting: Fall’s Coziest Treat
Make-Ahead & Storage
There’s something truly comforting about having a pot of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup ready for those chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This soup not only tastes better the next day, but it also gives you a break from cooking.
To make ahead, prepare the entire soup as directed, but hold off on adding the tortellini until just before serving. Store the soup base in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on medium heat until steaming, then add the tortellini and allow it to cook through. This ensures the pasta doesn’t become overly soft and maintains its delightful texture.
For storage, leftover soup should be cooled and transferred to a sealed container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, leave out the tortellini and add fresh when reheating. The soup base freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove. Remember, the creamy nature of this soup can change slightly upon freezing, but a good stir will bring it back to life.
Now, with your soup safely stored, you can focus on enjoying a cozy bowl whenever the cravings hit!
Best Ingredients & Party Variations
When it comes to making the perfect Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, the ingredients truly make all the difference. Choosing a high-quality Italian sausage, whether hot or mild, adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. For the tortellini, I love using RANA refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini; it cooks quickly and holds up beautifully in the creamy broth. Don’t overlook the kale—it not only adds color but brings a delightful texture and a hint of earthiness to the soup. The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates that luxurious, creamy base we all crave. Trust me, the subtle addition of mustard powder and hot sauce is transformative, enhancing the other flavors without overpowering them.
Now, if you’re planning to serve this soup at a gathering, consider a few fun variations to suit your guests’ tastes. For a vegetarian version, swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you prefer a heartier meal, add in some diced potatoes or carrots; they complement the flavors wonderfully. Feeling adventurous? Stir in a handful of sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving can also elevate your soup to new heights.
Whether you’re sticking to the classic version or adding your own spin, this creamy delight is sure to be a hit at any party. Grab some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got yourself an irresistible meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
FAQ’s About Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup
How can I make this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the soup flavorful. Consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and taste. You can also increase the spices slightly to maintain the robust flavor profile without the sausage.
Can I use spinach instead of kale in this soup?
Absolutely! Spinach is a great substitute for kale in this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup. It will wilt quickly, so add it in the last couple of minutes of cooking. Spinach provides a milder flavor and softer texture, making the soup a bit more delicate. Just ensure you wash it thoroughly before adding it to the pot.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling, as it may cause the tortellini to become too soft.
Can I freeze this soup for later?
Yes, you can freeze this Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the tortellini. Cook the soup up until that step, then cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, heat on the stove, and add fresh tortellini during reheating. This ensures the pasta maintains a firm texture and doesn’t become mushy.
Conclusion
There’s something truly magical about a pot of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup simmering on the stove. It fills the kitchen with a comforting aroma that wraps you in a warm embrace. This hearty dish doesn’t just satisfy your taste buds; it brings people together, creating cozy moments that you’ll cherish. Whether you’re sharing a bowl with family on a chilly evening or enjoying leftovers with friends, this soup is all about connection and comfort.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s easier than you might think and just as delightful as those special memories it can help create. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a beloved staple in your home!
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Savor the Comfort: Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 10 cups 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30-minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
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, optional
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 pinch red pepper flakes
1 cup heavy cream
5 cups chicken broth
2 cups kale, chopped
2 cups tortellini, refrigerated or frozen
Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Cook and crumble the sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through, 8-10 minutes. Drain grease. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chicken broth and stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer.
5. Add the kale and tortellini and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Taste the soup and add salt if desired.
6. Serve hot.
Notes
Use RANA refrigerated cheese-filled tortellini for best results.
For more flavor, add a Parmesan rind when adding the broth and simmer.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 314 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 836 mg
- Fat: 23 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 73 mg