Creamy Tortellini Soup

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy weeknights and gatherings alike. In just 30 minutes, you can create a rich, savory dish brimming with tender tortellini, flavorful Italian sausage, and nutritious kale. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this soup is sure to impress with its delightful flavors and creamy texture.

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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 Filling
• For Finishing Touches
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Sausage
• Step 3: Add Aromatics
• Step 4: Incorporate Flour
• Step 5: Combine Liquids
• Step 6: Add Tortellini
• Step 7: Mix in Kale
• Step 8: Finish with Cream
• How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• As a Main Dish
• 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 make Creamy Tortellini Soup vegetarian?
• What type of cheese works best in this soup?
• How do I customize my Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup is ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs creates a depth of flavor that elevates this simple soup.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe using your favorite greens or protein options.
• Comforting Dish: Its creamy texture and hearty ingredients make it the ideal comfort food for any occasion.
• One-Pot Meal: With minimal cleanup required, you can enjoy more time with your loved ones.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering soups evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware’s surface.
• Measuring spoons/cups: Ensure accuracy in ingredient measurements for the best results.

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

For the Filling

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
• ½ bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

For Finishing Touches

• 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.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add Italian sausage to the pot:
1. Cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Crumble the sausage as it cooks.
3. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

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

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Whisk in the flour:
1. Cook until lightly browned for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Liquids

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

Step 6: Add Tortellini

Add tortellini to the pot:
1. Cover and cook until tender for about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7: Mix in Kale

Stir in kale:
1. Cook until wilted for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 8: Finish with Cream

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

Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously creamy tortellini soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Tortellini Soup can transform a cozy meal into a delightful experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of bread with garlic butter pair perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the soup.
• Sourdough Rolls: Fresh sourdough rolls add a tangy flavor that complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil on top for an aromatic finish that enhances the soup’s flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese: A generous grating of Parmesan adds richness and a salty kick, making each spoonful even more delicious.

As a Main Dish

• Serve in Bowls: Present the soup in deep bowls, ensuring each serving is hearty and satisfying for dinner.
• Accompanied by Salad: Pairing it with a light salad can balance the richness of the soup while adding freshness.

How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup

To make your Creamy Tortellini Soup even better, consider these helpful tips:

• Bold Flavor Boost: Enhance flavors by adding a splash of white wine after browning the sausage for extra depth.
• Creamy Consistency: Use full-fat heavy cream instead of half-and-half for a richer texture.
• Vegetable Variety: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
• Spice It Up: Consider adding red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat in your soups.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tortellini Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy soup.
2. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers with mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide bright flavors and visual appeal.
3. Bruschetta: This classic Italian appetizer adds a burst of freshness and is great for dipping into the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add a wholesome element to your meal.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs are perfect for complementing the soup’s richness.
6. Garlic Knots: Soft garlic knots are perfect for sopping up leftover broth, making them an irresistible addition to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong pasta: Selecting non-refrigerated tortellini can lead to a less creamy texture. Always use fresh, refrigerated tortellini for the best results.
• Overcooking the sausage: Cooking the sausage too long can make it tough. Brown it just until cooked through, about 3-5 minutes.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Not tasting as you go can leave your soup bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper at each step.
• Skipping the flour step: Neglecting to whisk in flour can result in a watery soup. Make sure to cook it briefly to thicken your soup properly.
• Not using enough liquid: Starting with insufficient chicken stock may lead to a thick and unappetizing mixture. Stick to the recommended amount of stock for a balanced flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover creamy tortellini soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup

• If you want to freeze, use freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Pour into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Place in a pot over medium heat and stir frequently until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Creamy Tortellini Soup.

Can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or skip it entirely and add more vegetables.

What type of cheese works best in this soup?

Parmesan cheese is ideal due to its rich flavor. You could also sprinkle some mozzarella for extra creaminess when serving.

How do I customize my Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrients. You can also switch out kale for spinach based on your preference.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make it ahead and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is not only quick but also incredibly satisfying. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste!