Sausage Tortellini Soup
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this 30-minute meal brings warmth and flavor to the table. The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh kale creates a comforting bowl of goodness that everyone will love. Plus, its rich and creamy texture makes it stand out from ordinary soups!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up this delicious soup on busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of Italian sausage, garlic, and herbs ensures every spoonful is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with bread for dipping, this soup fits any meal plan.
- Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream gives this soup a luxurious texture that warms the soul.
- Nutritious Choice: With kale included, you’re adding healthy greens to your meal without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start making your Sausage Tortellini Soup, gather all the essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking hearty soups, providing even heat distribution for consistent results.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping the bottom of the pot to prevent burning while mixing ingredients.
Ingredients
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30 minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
Main 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
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz., refrigerated or frozen)
- Salt to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
- Remove the casings from the sausage if you purchased links.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and diced onions for 8-10 minutes until the onions are softened and the sausage is browned.
- Drain any excess grease from the pot.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Flour and Seasonings
- Sprinkle in the flour and stir well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Cream
- Pour in the chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
- Gradually stir in the heavy cream until well combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Step 4: Add Kale and Tortellini
- Stir in chopped kale and tortellini into the simmering soup.
- Allow to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes; adjust cooking time based on tortellini package instructions.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
- Taste your soup before serving; add salt as needed starting with about ¼ teaspoon.
- Serve hot in bowls alongside crusty garlic bread with cheese! Enjoy your comforting Sausage Tortellini Soup!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple touches. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair this soup with warm, crispy garlic bread for a classic combination. The bread is perfect for dipping!
Top with Parmesan Cheese
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- A slice of crusty bread on the side can help to soak up the creamy broth and make the meal more filling.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and added freshness.
Accompany with a Salad
- A light green salad balances out the richness of the soup. Consider using a vinaigrette dressing for brightness.
Include a Glass of Wine
- A glass of white wine or light red pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Sausage Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Quality Sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage will enhance the flavor of your soup significantly.
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Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables; they add more flavor and nutrition to your soup.
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Simmering Time: Allowing your soup to simmer longer can deepen its flavors. Just ensure not to overcook the tortellini.
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Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking. Start with less salt and add more as needed for better control over taste.
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Leftover Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain its creaminess.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Complementing your Sausage Tortellini Soup with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some perfect pairings.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing and croutons adds crunch and flavor.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
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Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make for an irresistible side option.
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Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a fresh bite that balances the soup’s richness.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors in the soup.
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Cheesy Breadsticks: These gooey treats are perfect for dipping in your creamy soup, adding extra indulgence.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms provide an elegant touch to your meal while staying on theme.
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Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables works well for sharing before enjoying the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sausage Tortellini Soup is simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong sausage: Different types of sausage can alter the flavor. Stick with Italian sausage for the best taste.
- Skipping the seasonings: Seasonings like basil and oregano enhance the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip them; they’re essential!
- Overcooking the tortellini: Follow the package instructions carefully. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy.
- Neglecting to taste: Always taste before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed for a well-balanced soup.
- Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh kale and quality broth make a noticeable difference. Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.
Can I use frozen tortellini in Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add it directly to the pot during cooking.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version of Sausage Tortellini Soup.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How long does Sausage Tortellini Soup keep in the fridge?
This soup stays fresh for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a comforting and quick meal that delights everyone. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Savor the rich flavors of this creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a perfect blend of Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale. In just 30 minutes, you can create a cozy meal ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings. This one-pot wonder combines savory ingredients with a luscious creamy broth that warms the heart and delights the palate. Whether served as a comforting main dish or paired with garlic bread for dipping, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and diced onion until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease and add minced garlic; cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir for 1-2 minutes. Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if desired), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes; mix thoroughly.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the pot bottom. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil. Then reduce heat to simmer.
- Stir in chopped kale and tortellini; cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until tortellini is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg