Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe

If you are craving a soul-soothing meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then this Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender tortellini gently nestled in a luscious tomato and chicken broth, enlivened by savory mild Italian sausage and bright, nutrient-rich kale. Finished with a splash of creamy goodness and an optional sprinkle of Parmesan, this soup is both hearty and fresh, making it your go-to comfort dinner on chilly evenings or busy weeknights when you want maximum flavor without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this soup lies in its straightforward, quality ingredients that each play a vital role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. From the meaty sausage adding richness, to the hearty kale boosting nutrition and the delicate tortellini providing a satisfying bite, every component works together beautifully.

• 1 pound mild Italian sausage: Gives the soup a savory foundation with gentle spice, perfect for family meals.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when cooked down.
• 6 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with fragrant warmth and robust flavor.
• 1 quart chicken stock: The comforting, flavorful base that ties all ingredients together.
• 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Brings a bright, tangy tomato essence that balances richness.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the broth slightly.
• 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavors.
• 1 bunch curly kale, stemmed and roughly torn: Adds a pop of vibrant green color and a wonderful earthy bite.
• 10 ounces fresh tortellini: Soft, pillowy pasta that makes this soup feel like a meal in itself.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, velvety texture and mellow sweetness.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a salty, nutty finishing touch, perfect for sprinkling on top.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle bit of heat to wake up the palate.

How to Make Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage with Onion and Garlic

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the mild Italian sausage, onion, and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break the sausage into crumbles and cook everything together until the sausage is browned and the onion becomes translucent. This step builds a flavorful base with caramelized bits that give the soup its hearty warmth. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so your soup isn’t greasy but perfectly rich.

Step 2: Combine Stock, Tomatoes, and Tomato Paste

Next, whisk in the chicken stock, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Bring the pot to a boil, then add the sea salt and reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the broth to thicken slightly. This simmering step deepens the tomato essence and creates that comforting warmth we crave.

Step 3: Add Kale, Tortellini, and Cream

Slowly stir in the torn kale, fresh tortellini, and heavy cream. Cooking for 3 to 5 minutes until the kale wilts and the tortellini is tender, this final step adds vibrant color, tender pasta, and velvety cream to the soup. The kale introduces a lively green contrast to the rich broth, while the pasta delivers satisfying bites that soak up all those wonderful flavors.

Step 4: Serve with Optional Parmesan and Red Pepper Flakes

Once the soup is hot and ready, ladle it into bowls for serving. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. These finishing touches elevate the dish with a savory tang and a subtle kick, making every spoonful utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe

Garnishes

Adding garnishes not only makes your soup look inviting but also layers in extra flavor and texture. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is a classic choice that melts beautifully on top, while red pepper flakes add a gentle heat burst if you enjoy some spice. For a fresh herbal note, chopped basil or parsley can brighten the bowl wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This soup is a hearty one-pot meal, but if you want to round out your dinner, consider crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia. They’re perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the creamy tomato broth. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette also pairs well, providing a crisp counterbalance to the soup’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party or family gathering, serve the soup in rustic bowls lined with a small piece of toasted bread on the side. You can also offer bowls of garnishes separately so everyone can customize their own. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil on top adds another layer of richness and sheen that makes the dish look elegantly inviting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the freshness of the kale and prevent the tortellini from soaking up too much liquid. Before serving, give it a gentle stir to reincorporate any separated cream or broth.

Freezing

While this soup freezes well, keep in mind that pasta can sometimes become softer after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the tortellini or store the pasta separately and combine them when reheating. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the soup gently over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or curdling of the cream. If reheating from frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming. Adding a splash of chicken stock or water can help bring back the perfect consistency if the broth has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use spicy Italian sausage instead of mild?

Absolutely! Switching to spicy Italian sausage adds a wonderful kick to the soup. Just adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly to keep the heat balanced to your preference.

Is fresh tortellini necessary, or can I use frozen or dried?

Fresh tortellini works best because it cooks quickly and stays tender, but you can use frozen tortellini with slight adjustments to cooking time. Dried tortellini is less ideal as it requires longer cooking and may not have the same soft, pillowy texture in soup.

Can I substitute kale with another leafy green?

Definitely! Swiss chard, spinach, or collard greens all work well. Keep in mind some greens like spinach cook faster, so add them closer to the end to avoid overcooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

The soup as written is not gluten-free due to the tortellini. However, you can find gluten-free tortellini alternatives to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive eaters without compromising taste.

Can I make this Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage, onion, and garlic first, then add all ingredients except cream and tortellini to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add tortellini and cream in the last 15-20 minutes to finish.

Final Thoughts

This Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients deliver exceptional comfort food. It’s fast enough for busy nights, full of flavor, and endlessly satisfying. Next time you want a warm, creamy bowl that feels homemade and special, give this recipe a try — your family and friends will thank you with every spoonful!

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