This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that’s perfect for cozy dinners. Packed with Italian sausage, tender tortellini, fresh kale, and a rich creamy broth, this one-pot wonder is both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Broth:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
For the Creamy Finish:
- 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Add-Ins:
- 1 (10 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Additional Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it into crumbles with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Broth
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes.
- Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Kale
- Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 5–7 minutes for fresh tortellini, longer for frozen).
- Stir in the chopped kale and cook for another 2–3 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Cheese
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls.
- Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or basil.
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Choose Quality Sausage: Italian sausage adds the most flavor, but you can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Customize the Greens: Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or baby arugula if preferred.
- Control the Thickness: For a thicker soup, add 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water before stirring in the cream.
- Make Ahead: This soup reheats beautifully. Just store the tortellini separately to prevent them from soaking up too much broth.
Why You’ll Love It
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale is:
- Rich and Hearty: Perfect for satisfying big appetites.
- Comforting: The creamy broth and tender tortellini create the ultimate cozy meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapted to suit dietary needs or ingredient availability.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Bread Options: Serve with garlic bread, focaccia, or warm dinner rolls.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a glass of white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti.