This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect blend of hearty flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family gathering, this soup delivers warmth and satisfaction in just 30 minutes. With its rich broth, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale, it’s a simple yet elegant meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking Time: This soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
- Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of sausage and tortellini creates a filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream gives the soup a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
- Easy Cleanup: With minimal pots and pans used during cooking, cleanup is quick and hassle-free.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Sausage Tortellini Soup, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right items on hand makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Silicone spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the soup evenly without spilling, allowing for easy stirring of all ingredients.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of the pot and mixing ingredients thoroughly without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a 30 minute meal that’s easy to make with sausage, kale, simple seasonings, broth, and cream!
Meat & Vegetables
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings & Dairy
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 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
- 1 cup heavy cream
Broth & Greens
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
Pasta
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
Final Touches
- Salt/ to taste
How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Remove the casings from the sausage if you purchased links. Cook and crumble the sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Create a Flavor Base
Add flour to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Add Seasonings
Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all flavors.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in chicken broth while using a silicone spatula to scrape up any bits stuck on the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream until fully combined. Increase heat until it reaches a boil then reduce to a simmer.
Step 5: Add Kale and Tortellini
Introduce chopped kale and tortellini into the soup. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini requires a longer cooking time, add it first before adding kale during the last five minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Taste your soup before serving. Add salt as needed—start with ¼ teaspoon—and adjust according to preference.
Step 7: Serve
Transfer your hearty Sausage Tortellini Soup into bowls and enjoy! For an extra treat, serve alongside Garlic Bread with Cheese for dipping!
How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup
Serving your Sausage Tortellini Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this creamy delight.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread complements the soup perfectly, adding a crunchy texture to each bite.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and tangy dressing balances the richness of the soup beautifully.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Basil or Parsley: Sprinkling fresh herbs on top brings brightness and enhances the flavors of the soup.
Serve with Crusty Bread
- Crusty Artisan Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up every drop of the savory broth.
Offer Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: Adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top provides a salty, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soup.

How to Perfect Sausage Tortellini Soup
To ensure your Sausage Tortellini Soup reaches its full potential, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Quality Sausage: Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for more robust flavor. This will enhance the overall taste of your soup.
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Don’t Skip the Seasonings: The mustard powder and hot sauce might seem optional, but they add depth. Make sure to include them for a richer flavor profile.
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Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer before adding tortellini. This will reduce some liquid and intensify flavors.
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Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh kale and herbs if possible. Fresh ingredients contribute vibrant flavors and nutrients to your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage Tortellini Soup
Complementing your Sausage Tortellini Soup with side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Knots: Soft, garlicky knots that are perfect for dipping in your soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, garlic, and basil adds freshness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy side that pairs well with creamy soups.
- Caprese Salad: Mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic make a light side that balances richness.
- Antipasto Platter: A variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables offer an Italian flair.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms stuffed with cheese and herbs make a delightful finger food option.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: Creamy dip served with chips or bread complements the hearty soup nicely.
- Focaccia Bread: Soft, herbed focaccia is great for sopping up every spoonful of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sausage Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key aspects. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can make your soup taste bland. Make sure to include all the herbs and seasonings for a flavorful dish.
- Using cold broth: Adding cold broth can lower the soup’s temperature significantly. Always use warm or hot broth to maintain cooking efficiency.
- Overcooking tortellini: If you leave tortellini in the pot too long, they can become mushy. Follow the package instructions for perfect texture.
- Neglecting to drain grease: Leaving excess grease from the sausage can make your soup overly greasy. Be sure to drain it after cooking the meat.
- Ignoring texture balance: Too much cream can overpower the other flavors. Adjust cream quantity based on your preference for creaminess.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the soup cool before sealing it in containers.
Freezing Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake until heated through; cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring occasionally until steaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sausage Tortellini Soup?
Sausage Tortellini Soup is a creamy and hearty meal made with Italian sausage, tortellini pasta, kale, and simple seasonings. It’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add them directly into the soup without thawing; they will cook perfectly while simmering.
How long does Sausage Tortellini Soup last?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months if properly sealed.
How do I customize Sausage Tortellini Soup?
You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers or substitute different greens for kale. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences!
Final Thoughts
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt it with various ingredients and flavors, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!

Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Experience the delightful warmth of this creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup, a comforting dish crafted for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a hearty blend of savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious kale in a rich and creamy broth. This soup doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it warms your soul with every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe is easily customizable—add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to create a version that suits your taste. With minimal cleanup required and an elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale
- 2 cups tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 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
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook crumbled sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until onions soften. Drain excess grease and add minced garlic for one minute.
- Stir in flour for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw taste.
- Mix in seasonings, then add chicken broth while scraping bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing heat to simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for 3-5 minutes until cooked through.
- Season with salt to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 370g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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