Creamy Tortellini Soup

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a cozy gathering with friends. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a comforting bowl of this hearty soup, filled with tender tortellini, savory sausage, and nutritious kale. It’s rich in flavor and incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

PIN THIS!PIN THIS!

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 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: Add Liquids
• Step 6: Cook Tortellini
• Step 7: Incorporate Greens
• Step 8: Finish with Cream
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a Fresh Salad
• Garnish Creatively
• Serve in Individual Bowls
• 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
• Can I customize my Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• How do I make this soup vegetarian?
• What type of tortellini is best?
• How long does it take to prepare Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and fresh herbs gives this soup a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by swapping out ingredients like kale for spinach or using turkey sausage for a lighter option.
• Comforting and Filling: Loaded with tortellini and hearty greens, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are some must-have items to prepare this delicious creamy tortellini soup.

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: This allows you to cook large quantities at once while ensuring even heating.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistency in flavor.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your delightful creamy tortellini soup:

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
• 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

For Garnish

• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

PIN THIS!

How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Crumble the sausage as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Stir in garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Cook until onions are translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add Flour

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

Step 5: Add Liquids

Stir in chicken stock, tomato sauce, and Parmesan rind (if using). Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes.

Step 6: Cook Tortellini

Add tortellini. Cover and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Greens

Stir in kale and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 8: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream and basil. Cook for another minute until heated through. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 9: Serve

Serve immediately in bowls garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious creamy tortellini soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish perfect for cozy dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve warm, crusty bread for dipping. It soaks up the creamy broth beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup’s richness, making each bite irresistible.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.
• Mixed Greens: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, mixed greens provide freshness and balance.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle chopped basil on top for added color and aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shave some Parmigiano-Reggiano over the soup for an extra cheesy kick.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Rustic Bowls: Using rustic bowls enhances presentation and makes the meal feel special.
• Mason Jars: For a fun twist, serve in mason jars for casual gatherings or picnics.

How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup

Perfecting your Creamy Tortellini Soup is easy with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Bold flavors: Use high-quality Italian sausage for maximum flavor. The richness of the sausage adds depth to the soup.
• Fresh ingredients: Always choose fresh kale and herbs. They bring brightness and enhance the overall taste.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or add more flour at the beginning. This creates a heartier texture.
• Season well: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper to ensure balanced seasoning throughout the dish.

PIN THIS!

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup pairs wonderfully with several sides that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic and parsley make an excellent addition for sopping up broth.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a burst of flavor before the main course.
4. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses can be served as an appetizer to start off your meal.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables roasted until tender make a healthy companion that complements the soup’s creaminess.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon dressing adds protein and crunch, balancing out the meal perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can take away from its deliciousness. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the seasoning: Always season your soup with salt and pepper. It enhances the flavors and makes the dish more enjoyable.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cook tortellini just until tender. Overcooking can make them mushy and ruin the texture.
• Ignoring the sautéing step: Sautéing onions and garlic before adding liquids develops richer flavors. Don’t skip this step!
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and kale greatly improve taste. Use fresh herbs whenever possible for better results.
• Using low-quality stock: A good chicken stock adds depth to your soup. Invest in high-quality stock for a more flavorful outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium heat until warmed through, stirring frequently.

PIN THIS!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Yes! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition or use different types of cheese tortellini.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Creamy Tortellini Soup, simply replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether.

What type of tortellini is best?

Three-cheese tortellini works wonderfully in this recipe, but feel free to use any variety you enjoy!

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Tortellini Soup?

This delicious soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use frozen kale instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen kale can be used as a substitute, but be sure to thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.

Final Thoughts

The Creamy Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins. Whether you make it on a chilly evening or for a quick family meal, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table!

---