Creamy Tortellini Soup

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is a delightful bowl of comfort that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or whenever you’re in need of something warm and satisfying. Loaded with tender tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and hearty kale, this soup is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly easy to make, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For the Broth
• For the Tortellini
• For the Greens
• For Creaminess
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Sausage
• Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
• Step 4: Add Flour
• Step 5: Create the Broth
• Step 6: Incorporate Tortellini
• Step 7: Add Kale
• Step 8: Finish with Cream
• How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Pair with Fresh Bread
• Top with Fresh Herbs
• Add Crunchy Toppings
• How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What can I use instead of kale in Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• Can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
• How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?
• Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage, garlic, and fresh herbs creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or a starter, this soup can be enjoyed on its own or with crusty bread.
• Comforting Meal: Each bowl provides warmth and satisfaction, making it a go-to during cold weather.
• Easily Adaptable: Substitute ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs without losing the essence of the dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing even heat distribution and enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for precise ingredient measurements to achieve perfect flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium sweet onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Broth

• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (3-inch) Parmesan rind (optional)

For the Tortellini

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini

For the Greens

• ½ bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

For Creaminess

• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat until shimmering.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add Italian sausage to the pot. Cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to crumble the sausage as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic, diced onion, and Italian seasoning. Cook while stirring frequently until onions are translucent, approximately 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Flour

Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute until lightly browned.

Step 5: Create the Broth

Stir in chicken stock and tomato sauce. If using Parmesan rind, add it now. Bring mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat and let simmer until slightly thickened (about 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Incorporate Tortellini

Add tortellini to the pot. Cover and cook until tender, roughly 5-7 minutes.

Step 7: Add Kale

Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted (about 1-2 minutes).

Step 8: Finish with Cream

Finally, stir in heavy cream and basil. Cook for another minute until heated through. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy tortellini soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and satisfies your taste buds. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that creamy goodness.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the tortellini.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for an aromatic touch that brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate some Parmesan cheese over the soup for an extra layer of richness and a hint of nuttiness.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add a delightful crunch, enhancing the soup’s texture.
• Toasted Pine Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts brings a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.

How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup

Mastering this recipe is easy with a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your Creamy Tortellini Soup.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients like high-quality Italian sausage and vibrant kale will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Choose Your Tortellini Wisely: Opt for fresh or refrigerated three-cheese tortellini for a tender bite. Avoid frozen varieties for best texture.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Control Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add more chicken stock or cream until you reach your desired consistency.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup is delicious on its own but can be even better with some complementary sides. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
2. Garlic Knots: Soft and buttery garlic knots are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
3. Caprese Salad: This refreshing salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a light contrast to the hearty soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies bring earthy flavors that complement the creaminess well.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer that pairs beautifully with this comforting soup.
6. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables provides a variety of flavors and textures alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your soup properly can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Overcooked tortellini can become mushy. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect the soup’s flavor. Invest in good sausage and fresh vegetables for the best results.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing the simmering process prevents flavors from developing fully. Allow sufficient time for the ingredients to meld together.
• Forgetting to wilt the kale: Adding kale too late may result in tough leaves. Ensure you stir it in long enough for proper wilting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months, leaving space for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in increments of 1 minute, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of kale in Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Spinach is a great substitute if you prefer a milder flavor or want a quicker cooking green.

Can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the soup without adding cream and tortellini. Add these ingredients during reheating for the best texture.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice for brightness before serving.

Is this recipe suitable for leftovers?

Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prep.

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes! Frozen tortellini works just as well; just adjust cooking time according to package directions.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins to suit your taste. Give it a try—it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!