This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option for guests, this soup delivers on flavor and ease. With its rich broth, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale, it stands out as both satisfying and healthy. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a warm bowl of goodness that will surely impress everyone at your table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Soup Base
- Seasonings
- Creamy Ingredients
- Vegetables and Pasta
- Final Touches
- How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions
- Step 3: Create the Base
- Step 4: Add Spices
- Step 5: Introduce Broth and Cream
- Step 6: Add Kale and Tortellini
- Step 7: Taste Test
- Step 8: Serve
- How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
- With Garlic Bread
- Topped with Parmesan Cheese
- With Fresh Herbs
- Served in Bread Bowls
- Accompanied by Salad
- With Crusty Rolls
- How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen tortellini in Sausage Tortellini Soup?
- What other vegetables can I add to Sausage Tortellini Soup?
- How do I make this soup vegetarian?
- Can I make Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This soup takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of Italian sausage and spices creates a rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and protein-rich sausage, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Family Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy texture and comforting flavors of this dish.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare your Sausage Tortellini Soup efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Each tool makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Silicone spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly while providing ample space for all ingredients.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping the bottom of the pot to incorporate all flavors without damaging non-stick surfaces.
Ingredients
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30 minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 Tablespoons flour
Seasonings
- 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
Creamy Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
Vegetables and Pasta
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
Final Touches
- Salt/ to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, measure out the spices, and have everything ready to go.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Cook and crumble the sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat. Stir until the onions soften and the sausage is fully cooked—about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease before adding garlic.
Step 3: Create the Base
Add minced garlic to your mixture. Cook for about one minute until fragrant. Then sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw flavor.
Step 4: Add Spices
Incorporate dried basil, oregano, cayenne (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes into the pot. Mix well to combine all seasonings with the sausage.
Step 5: Introduce Broth and Cream
Pour in chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom of your pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream until fully blended. Bring this mixture to a boil before lowering it to a simmer.
Step 6: Add Kale and Tortellini
Once simmering, add chopped kale and tortellini into the pot. Let them simmer together for about 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Taste Test
After cooking, taste your soup! Add salt gradually—start with ¼ teaspoon—and adjust according to your preference.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle your delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup into serving bowls. Enjoy it hot! It pairs wonderfully with Garlic Bread with Cheese!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving your Sausage Tortellini Soup can be as delightful as making it. This creamy soup is versatile and pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.
With Garlic Bread
- Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup perfectly, adding a crunchy texture to each bite.
Topped with Parmesan Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top adds a rich, salty flavor that enhances the overall dish.
With Fresh Herbs
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the soup with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Served in Bread Bowls
- Bread Bowls: For an extra special touch, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread rolls for a fun and edible presentation.
Accompanied by Salad
- Side Salad: Pairing the soup with a light side salad can balance the meal. Consider a simple mixed greens salad or Caesar salad.
With Crusty Rolls
- Crusty Rolls: Soft, crusty rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy soup, soaking up all those delicious flavors.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To achieve the best version of your Sausage Tortellini Soup, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking game.
- Use Quality Sausage: Selecting high-quality Italian sausage enhances the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
- Don’t Skimp on Garlic: Adding more garlic than suggested can deepen the soup’s flavor and aroma.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute half-and-half.
- Fresh Kale Only: Use fresh kale instead of frozen for better texture and taste in your soup.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving. This ensures your soup is perfectly seasoned.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Sausage Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caprese Salad: A refreshing blend of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is perfect alongside the rich flavors of the soup.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated veggies provides an Italian flair to your meal.
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables: These flavorful roasted vegetables offer a healthy side that complements the creamy soup beautifully.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing adds crunch and a tangy contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Warm breadsticks topped with cheese are not only delicious but also great for dipping into the soup.
- Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta brings vibrant flavors that pair well with tortellini soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant yet easy-to-eat side dish that enhances any meal.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors in your Sausage Tortellini Soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, even small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring the sausage casings: Always remove the casings from sausage links before cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture in your soup.
- Skipping the flour step: Don’t skip cooking the flour. This helps to thicken the soup while removing any raw taste, leading to a richer flavor.
- Overcooking tortellini: Be mindful of the cooking time for tortellini. Overcooking can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely for best results.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. Depending on your ingredients, you may need to adjust salt or spices to enhance flavors.
- Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key component in this soup. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for a more flavorful base that elevates the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Sausage Tortellini Soup will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use frozen tortellini in Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Yes! Frozen tortellini work perfectly in this recipe. Just add them directly into the soup without thawing.
What other vegetables can I add to Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Sausage Tortellini Soup, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Can I make Sausage Tortellini Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and reheat when ready to serve. The flavors will actually deepen overnight.
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta variations. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a comforting staple in your home!
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Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people 1x
Description
Savor the comforting flavors of this creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, an ideal dish for busy weeknights or gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can prepare a bowlful of warmth that combines rich Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale in a luscious broth. This delightful soup is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor and health benefits, making it perfect for families and friends alike. Elevate your dinner experience by serving it with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Gather and prepare all ingredients.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and onions until the sausage is browned and onions are soft (8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove raw taste.
- Mix in spices and then pour in chicken broth; scrape the bottom of the pot to incorporate flavors.
- Slowly stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Add kale and tortellini; simmer for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg