Creamy Tortellini Soup

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect cozy dish for any weeknight dinner. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines tender tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and hearty kale into a rich and flavorful bowl of goodness. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or impress guests at a casual gathering, this soup’s deliciousness makes it a star in any setting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This creamy tortellini soup can be made in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with Italian sausage, garlic, and fresh herbs, each spoonful is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Enjoy this soup as a main course or as an appetizer. It pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tortellini and kale provides both comfort and nutrition in every bowl.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients like using turkey sausage or spinach for added flexibility.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy tortellini soup efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are some must-have items that will help you prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven: These provide ample space for cooking the soup evenly while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface and helps to break up the sausage while cooking.
• Whisk: Perfect for incorporating flour smoothly into the mixture, preventing clumps during cooking.

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

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For Flavor

• 4 cups chicken stock
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (3-inch) Parmesan rind (optional)

For Tortellini

• 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini

For Greens

• ½ bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

For Creaminess

• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes, crumbling the sausage as it cooks.
* Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

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

Step 3: Incorporate Flour

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

Step 4: Create the Soup Base

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

Step 5: Add Tortellini

Add tortellini to the pot.
* Cover and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 6: Mix in Kale

Stir in chopped kale.
* Cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Finish with Cream

Stir in heavy cream and fresh basil.
* Cook for an additional minute until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy tortellini soup!

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Creamy Tortellini Soup is a wonderful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this cozy dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: A slice of freshly baked sourdough complements the soup’s creaminess and adds a tangy flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread provides a crunchy texture and enhances the Italian flavors in the soup.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Sprinkle fresh basil on top for a burst of color and flavor that brightens the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grating fresh Parmesan over the soup adds richness and a salty kick.

Garnished with Greens

• Fresh Spinach: Add some fresh spinach leaves as a garnish for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley offers a fresh taste and enhances presentation.

How to Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup

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

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce, especially herbs and vegetables, will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooking can make tortellini mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go! Start with salt and pepper, adding more as needed for optimal flavor.
• Let It Thicken: Allowing the soup to simmer slightly longer can improve its thickness and creaminess.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Tortellini Soup

Pairing your Creamy Tortellini Soup with delicious side dishes can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons that pairs well with the soup.
2. Garlic Knots: These buttery, garlicky delights are perfect for dipping into your soup.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil give a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until crispy provide a healthy balance to your meal.
5. Pesto Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with pesto adds an aromatic twist that complements the flavors of the soup.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms serve as an elegant appetizer before enjoying your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Creamy Tortellini Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes may hinder your results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Ignoring the sauté step: Failing to properly sauté the sausage, onions, and garlic can result in a bland soup. Always take the time to cook these ingredients until fragrant and golden.
• Overcooking the tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness a minute or two earlier.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting salt and pepper at the end can lead to a flat flavor. Always season to your preference for the best taste.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh basil can diminish the soup’s flavor. Whenever possible, opt for fresh herbs for that extra pop of freshness.
• Not using enough liquid: If you don’t add enough chicken stock or tomato sauce, the soup can become too thick. Adjust the liquids based on your desired soup consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually around 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Creamy Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish made with tortellini, Italian sausage, vegetables, and cream in a savory broth.

Can I make Creamy Tortellini Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. You can add more vegetables instead.

How do I customize my Creamy Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or mushrooms. You can also use different types of tortellini based on your preference.

Is Creamy Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup holds up well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it great for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable. You can mix in your favorite vegetables or adjust seasonings to match your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners!

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