There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and this Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup hits all the right notes. Packed with flavor, it’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a cozy embrace and makes you feel right at home. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this hearty soup delivers warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of spicy sausage and creamy broth creates a rich, satisfying taste that warms the soul.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and tortellini, this dish offers nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or as an appetizer; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level by choosing hot or mild Italian sausage and adding extra cayenne if desired.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking your delicious Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Silicone spatula
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly, preventing burning while allowing for ample space to stir ingredients.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping the bottom of the pot to ensure no flavorful bits are left behind.
Ingredients
To create your own delicious bowl of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Meat & Dairy
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 cup heavy cream
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
Pantry Staples
- 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
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
- Salt to taste
How to Make Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Cook and crumble the sausage along with diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Prepare the Roux
Sprinkle flour over the sausage mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Add Spices
Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes to infuse flavors into the mixture.
Step 5: Incorporate Broth and Cream
Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to release any stuck particles. Gradually mix in heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 6: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini into the pot. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the tortellini is tender. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup hot in bowls. Enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Serving Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is an opportunity to elevate your meal with delightful pairings. Here are some creative ideas to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of crusty baguette for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying crunch.
- Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery garlic bread complements the flavors perfectly and adds an extra layer of comfort.
Garnishes
- Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Add a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a rich, savory finish.
Accompanying Salads
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the hearty soup.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the warming soup.
Wine Pairing
- Chardonnay – A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the flavors with its fruity notes.
- Red Blend – For red wine lovers, a smooth red blend complements the spices beautifully.
How to Perfect Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Achieving the perfect bowl of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to make it even better.
- Use Quality Sausage – Choose high-quality Italian sausage for a deeper flavor profile.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Tailor the heat by using more or less cayenne pepper based on your preference.
- Don’t Overcook Tortellini – Cook tortellini just until tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
- Add Fresh Greens Last – Stir in kale towards the end of cooking to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.
- Experiment with Broth – Try using homemade chicken broth for an even richer taste.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can deepen its flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic are perfect for sopping up soup.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
- Antipasto Platter – Include olives, cheeses, and cured meats for a flavorful appetizer before serving soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Pasta Salad – A cold pasta salad can provide a nice textural contrast alongside hot soup.
- Stuffed Peppers – These flavorful peppers can serve as a filling side that complements the main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to ensure success.
- Using Low-Quality Sausage: The flavor of your soup depends greatly on the sausage. Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best taste.
- Overcooking the Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect tenderness.
- Skipping Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting and adjusting seasonings is crucial. Don’t forget to add salt and spices gradually to achieve your desired flavor.
- Not Sautéing Ingredients Properly: Make sure to sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. This step builds a foundation of flavor in your soup.
- Ignoring Texture Variations: Adding kale too early can make it soggy. Stir it in towards the end of cooking for a pleasant texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup.
Can I use frozen tortellini in my soup?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Just add it directly into the pot without thawing.
How do I make this soup less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, use mild sausage and omit any added cayenne or hot sauce.
What other vegetables can I add?
You can add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can customize by adding different herbs, spices, or even beans for additional protein!
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is not only cozy but also versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on your preferences!
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, a delightful dish perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty soup combines savory Italian sausage with tender tortellini and nutritious kale, all enveloped in a creamy broth that’s bursting with flavor. In just 40 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that’s ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With customizable spice levels and versatile serving options, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups tortellini
- 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 the ground sausage and diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions soften and the sausage is browned (about 8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
- Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes to enhance flavors.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the pot's bottom to release flavorful bits. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Incorporate chopped kale and tortellini; simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is tender. Season with salt as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
