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 perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or cozy nights in. The combination of spicy Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and creamy broth makes it a standout dish that is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can have a hearty meal on the table in less than an hour.
- Flavor Explosion: The blend of spices and rich ingredients brings a delightful depth of flavor that warms your soul.
- Versatile Meal: This soup is perfect for any occasion—serve it as a main course or as a starter at a dinner party.
- Comfort Food Classic: A delicious way to embrace the comfort of home cooking during colder months.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with kale and made with lean sausage, this soup brings nutrition without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make preparing your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups; it distributes heat evenly and holds ample ingredients.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while ensuring even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 Tablespoons flour
For Seasoning
- 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
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Broth & Veggies
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
For Pasta
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. refrigerated or frozen)
To Taste
- Salt
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 fully cooked, 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: Incorporate Flour
Sprinkle flour over the sausage mixture. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste. Stir continuously to integrate it well.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes until evenly mixed.
Step 5: Pour in Broth & Cream
Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to release stuck particles. Gradually mix in heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 6: Add Kale & Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini to the pot. Let simmer for about 3–5 minutes until tortellini is tender. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls and serve hot for a comforting meal that warms you from within. Enjoy!
How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Serving Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is all about enhancing the warm, comforting nature of this dish. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Add a Fresh Garnish
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Grated Parmesan: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for added richness and flavor.
Pair with Bread
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. This adds texture and soaks up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Offer warm garlic breadsticks as a savory side to complement the soup’s flavors.
Create a Flavorful Topping Bar
- Hot Sauce Selection: Provide different hot sauces for those who like an extra kick.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can add creaminess and balance the spice.
Serve in Unique Bowls
- Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in edible bread bowls that guests can enjoy alongside their meal.
- Mason Jars: For a rustic touch, consider serving individual portions in mason jars.
How to Perfect Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Perfecting your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Here are some helpful tips.
- Use Quality Sausage: Choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Hot sausage will give your soup an extra kick.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Tailor the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce based on your heat preference. Start small; you can always add more!
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables like kale for better texture and nutritional value compared to frozen options.
- Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer enhances the flavors. Just be careful not to overcook the tortellini.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving to adjust seasoning as needed. This ensures you achieve that perfect balance of flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Complementing your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crunchy croutons pairs well with the creamy soup.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness which balances the spice in the soup.
- Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter filled with cured meats, olives, and cheeses makes for an exciting appetizer.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Soft biscuits loaded with cheese provide a delightful texture alongside the soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers can serve as a hearty complement without overwhelming flavors.
- Risotto Balls (Arancini): These crispy rice balls filled with cheese offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts well with the soup’s smoothness.
- Zucchini Fritters: Lightly fried zucchini fritters add a crispy element that pairs wonderfully with your dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish.
- Using low-quality sausage: The sausage is the star of this soup. Always choose high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
- Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning enhances the soup’s taste. Don’t forget to adjust salt and spices during cooking to suit your palate.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Cook tortellini just until tender. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and ruin the texture of your soup.
- Ignoring the simmering time: Allowing the soup to simmer lets all flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step; it makes a difference in taste.
- Not using enough broth: A good broth is essential for a flavorful soup. Ensure you’re using enough chicken broth for a rich base.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store soup in an airtight container.
- It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and bake until heated through, about 25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Just add them directly without thawing.
Is this soup spicy?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Use mild sausage or reduce added spices if you prefer less heat.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil also enhance flavor.
How do I store leftovers of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days, or freeze for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is not only cozy but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful bowl of comfort!
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. This comforting recipe combines spicy Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and nutrient-rich kale in a creamy broth that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this soup can be on your table in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, it’s sure to become a favorite among friends and family alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Assorted spices (basil, oregano, cayenne pepper)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the sausage and onions for about 8–10 minutes until the onions are soft and the sausage is browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well for 1–2 minutes.
- Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes; mix thoroughly.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot; then gradually add heavy cream. Bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Stir in chopped kale and tortellini; let simmer for 3–5 minutes until tortellini is tender.
- Season with salt to taste before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
