Sausage Tortellini Soup

Welcome to our kitchen, where we’re simmering up a bowl of comfort with our Sausage Tortellini Soup. This hearty and flavorful soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutritious greens in a creamy broth that’s perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with loved ones. Join us as we dive into the delicious details of this comforting one-pot meal.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (hot or mild), casings removed if necessary
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)
• 1 tsp hot sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• Salt, to taste

For the Greens and Pasta:

• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz), fresh or frozen

Instructions:

1. Cooking the Italian Sausage:
   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If using sausage links, remove the casings before cooking.
2. Sautéing Onion and Garlic:
   • Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion begins to soften and turn translucent.
   • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Creating the Flavor Base:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture and stir well to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste and create a roux that will help thicken the soup.
4. Adding Spices and Seasonings:
   • Incorporate the dried basil, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir to combine thoroughly, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
5. Pouring in the Liquid Ingredients:
   • Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming in the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Cooking the Tortellini:
   • Add the tortellini to the simmering soup. If using fresh tortellini, they will cook quickly, usually in 3-5 minutes. If using frozen tortellini, follow the package instructions for cooking time.
   • Stir occasionally to ensure the tortellini cook evenly and do not stick together.
7. Incorporating the Cream and Greens:
   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently to incorporate it into the soup. This will add richness and a creamy texture to the broth.
   • Add the chopped kale or spinach to the soup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted and tender.
8. Adjusting Seasonings and Serving:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional pepper if needed. Remember that the sausage and broth may already add saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
   • Once the tortellini are fully cooked and the greens are tender, remove the soup from heat.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the Sausage Tortellini Soup into bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
   • Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cook’s Tips:

• Sausage Varieties: Experiment with different types of Italian sausage, such as spicy or mild, to adjust the level of heat and flavor in your soup.
• Make It Creamier: For an even creamier soup, stir in a bit more heavy cream or add a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to maintain the soup’s consistency.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the Italian sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles or omit it altogether for a meatless version. Increase the amount of vegetables and add extra seasonings for robust flavor.
• Cheese Tortellini: Substitute cheese-filled tortellini for a different flavor profile. The cheesy filling adds a creamy texture and complements the savory broth beautifully.

Warm your soul with a bowl of our Sausage Tortellini Soup, where savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and hearty greens come together in a creamy, flavorful broth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with family and friends, this soup promises comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Embrace the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade soup with this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.