Creamy Tortellini Soup

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings. In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a warm bowl filled with tender tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and hearty kale. This dish is not only rich and flavorful but also incredibly easy to make, making it suitable for any occasion from family dinners to casual get-togethers.

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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 Thickening the Soup
• For the Creamy Finish
• How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup
• Step 1: Heat the Oil
• Step 2: Cook the Sausage
• Step 3: Add Aromatics
• Step 4: Thicken the Base
• Step 5: Add Liquids
• Step 6: Cook the Tortellini
• Step 7: Incorporate Greens
• Step 8: Finish with Cream
• How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• As a Main Dish
• 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 use frozen tortellini for Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• What can I substitute for kale in this recipe?
• How can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup healthier?
• Can I make this soup vegan?
• How long does it take to make Creamy Tortellini Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs creates a delightful taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup with different greens or types of sausage to suit your taste.
• Comforting Texture: The creamy base combined with tender tortellini makes each bite satisfying.
• Perfect Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s helpful to gather the right tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and ensure you create the best creamy tortellini soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly without burning.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly, especially when adding flour to avoid lumps.

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

For Thickening the Soup

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (3-inch) Parmesan rind (optional)

For the Creamy Finish

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
• ½ bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

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: Add Aromatics

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

Step 4: Thicken the Base

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

Step 5: Add Liquids

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

Step 6: Cook the Tortellini

Add refrigerated tortellini to the pot. Cover and cook until pasta is tender, which takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7: Incorporate Greens

Stir in chopped kale and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted.

Step 8: Finish with Cream

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

Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously creamy tortellini soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Serving it right can elevate this comforting dish even further. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your soup experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the soup perfectly.
• Sourdough: This tangy bread adds a wonderful contrast and is perfect for dipping.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and aroma to each bowl.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances the creaminess and adds an extra layer of taste.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with Salad: A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Garnish with Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy heat, chili flakes can provide a nice kick.

In Individual Bowls

• Personalize Each Serving: Let guests customize their bowls with extra toppings like croutons or additional cheese.

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How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Creamy Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce and high-quality sausage will significantly improve the flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just until al dente; they will continue to cook in the hot soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Use Homemade Stock When Possible: Homemade chicken stock adds depth and richness that store-bought cannot match.
• Experiment with Greens: While kale is delicious, trying spinach or Swiss chard can offer different flavors and textures.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crisp romaine and creamy dressing that complements the soup well.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil skewered for easy eating make a refreshing appetizer.
3. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and roasted vegetables offers variety and flavor contrasts.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal while being easy to prepare.
5. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and balsamic glaze pairs beautifully with soup.
6. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad can be a filling addition without overwhelming the main dish. Choose a vinaigrette base for brightness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Always taste your soup as you cook. This helps ensure balanced flavors.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Follow package instructions carefully. Overcooked tortellini can become mushy.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing garlic and onions brings out their flavors. Don’t rush this step!
• Using low-quality ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a difference. Opt for high-quality sausage and fresh vegetables for the best taste.
• Not letting it simmer long enough: Allowing the soup to simmer thickens and melds flavors. Don’t skip this crucial time!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let the soup cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in a covered oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl. Use medium power and stir occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Creamy Tortellini Soup that might help you perfect your dish.

Can I use frozen tortellini for Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly! Just add them directly to the soup without thawing.

What can I substitute for kale in this recipe?

Spinach is a great alternative if you prefer something milder. It wilts quickly and adds a nice color.

How can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup healthier?

Consider using turkey sausage or adding more vegetables like carrots or zucchini to boost nutrition.

Can I make this soup vegan?

To create a vegan version, use plant-based sausage and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for richness.

How long does it take to make Creamy Tortellini Soup?

This comforting soup is quick! You can have it ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Tortellini Soup is not only rich and comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its deliciousness on any weeknight!