How to make Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale




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

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. 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

  1. Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until softened.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Broth

  1. Pour in the chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes.
  2. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added flavor.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Kale

  1. Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 5–7 minutes for fresh tortellini, longer for frozen).
  2. 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

  1. 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.
  2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or basil.
  3. Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup

  1. Choose Quality Sausage: Italian sausage adds the most flavor, but you can substitute with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
  2. Customize the Greens: Swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or baby arugula if preferred.
  3. Control the Thickness: For a thicker soup, add 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch mixed with water before stirring in the cream.
  4. 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.