Sausage Tortellini Soup

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any day, this Sausage Tortellini Soup is the answer. Loaded with savory sausage, tender tortellini, and nutrient-rich kale in a creamy broth, this soup delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground pork sausage
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 9-ounce package three-cheese tortellini
• 3 cups kale, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

This recipe comes together in just a few simple steps, ensuring you have a warm, comforting bowl of soup ready in no time.

1. Start by browning the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté the carrots and onion until tender. Add in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute to enhance the flavor.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to coat. Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to create a smooth base. Add the tomato paste and mix thoroughly.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Add the tortellini and let the soup simmer for about 7 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through.
5. Just before serving, stir in the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips for the Best Sausage Tortellini Soup

• For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Substitute spinach for kale if you prefer a milder green.
• For added heat, use spicy Italian sausage or sprinkle in red pepper flakes.
• This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, so feel free to make it ahead of time.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve the soup hot, straight from the pot, with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor.
• Pair it with warm, crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or homemade dinner rolls to soak up the creamy broth.
• For a balanced meal, add a side of mixed greens or Caesar salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
• Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, avoid adding the tortellini and kale until reheating, as they can become mushy. Freeze the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat refrigerated soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For frozen soup, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and then add fresh tortellini and kale while warming.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy this comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup fresh or as leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later in the week!

Variations

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is versatile, making it easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some delicious variations to try:

1. Protein Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Sausage: Use ground turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
• Vegetarian: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.
• Ground Beef: Swap the sausage for ground beef for a milder, kid-friendly flavor.

2. Tortellini Options

• Different Fillings: Try tortellini filled with spinach and ricotta, mushroom, or beef for a unique twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini if you’re avoiding gluten.

3. Greens Substitutions

• Spinach: Replace kale with spinach for a softer texture and milder taste.
• Swiss Chard: Add a slightly earthy flavor with Swiss chard.

4. Broth and Cream Variations

• Tomato-Based: Skip the heavy cream and add a can of diced tomatoes for a lighter, tomato-based soup.
• Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

5. Spice It Up

• Spicy Sausage: Choose hot Italian sausage to add a kick of heat.
• Cajun Twist: Add Cajun seasoning for a bold, spicy flavor profile.

6. Add More Veggies

• Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Add chopped zucchini or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes: Make the soup heartier by including diced potatoes or sweet potatoes.

7. Pasta Alternatives

• Ravioli: Use ravioli instead of tortellini for a similar yet slightly different texture and flavor.
• Gnocchi: Substitute gnocchi for a soft, pillowy addition to the soup.

8. Low-Carb Version

• Replace tortellini with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles to create a low-carb alternative while still keeping it hearty.

9. Herb Enhancements

• Add fresh basil or parsley before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Stir in a dash of nutmeg for an unexpected depth of flavor in the creamy broth.

Experiment with these variations to keep your Sausage Tortellini Soup exciting and tailored to your preferences!

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
   Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage are great alternatives to pork sausage. Choose a sausage with the flavor profile that best suits your taste.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!
3. Can I freeze Sausage Tortellini Soup?
   Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to freeze the base (without tortellini and kale) and add those ingredients when reheating. Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
4. Can I use frozen tortellini in this soup?
   Yes, you can use frozen tortellini in this soup. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing. It may take a little longer to cook, so be sure to check for doneness.
5. What can I use instead of heavy cream?
   If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk or almond milk works well as a substitute.
6. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
   Absolutely! You can add additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes. Just chop them up and add them when sautéing the carrots and onions.
7. Is this recipe spicy?
   The recipe is not inherently spicy, but if you like a bit of heat, you can add spicy Italian sausage or red pepper flakes to taste.
8. What is a good substitute for kale in this soup?
   If you’re not a fan of kale, you can substitute it with spinach, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a different texture and flavor.
9. Can I use a different broth than chicken?
   Yes, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or beef broth for a richer taste. Choose the broth that best complements the rest of the ingredients.
10. How do I store leftovers?
    Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the soup.

These FAQs will help you troubleshoot and make the most out of your Sausage Tortellini Soup!

This Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and packed with incredible flavors. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing dinner guests, this soup is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it today and savor the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and hearty goodness!

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