Creamy Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Bursting with flavors from Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant kale, this soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a batch of Creamy Tortellini Soup. First and foremost, it’s incredibly satisfying and perfect for cozy nights in. The combination of creamy broth and hearty ingredients will leave you feeling nourished and content. Additionally, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Plus, it can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it versatile for everyone’s taste preferences.

How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium sweet onion, diced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 cups chicken stock
1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
½ bunch kale, chopped
⅓ cup heavy cream

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
Add Italian sausage; cook until browned, crumbling it as it cooks.
Stir in garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning; sauté until onions are translucent.
Whisk in flour; cook for about a minute until lightly browned.
Add chicken stock and tomato sauce; bring to a boil.
Stir in tortellini; cover and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
Add kale; cook until wilted.
Stir in heavy cream and basil; adjust seasoning if needed.

How to Serve Creamy Tortellini Soup

Serving Creamy Tortellini Soup is simple. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an added touch of flavor and color. Pair it with crusty garlic bread or a light salad to complete your meal. This soup is perfect for sharing, making it an ideal dish for gathering with family or friends.

How to Store

To store Creamy Tortellini Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it will keep for up to three months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Tips to Make

If you want to increase the nutritional value, consider adding more vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.
For a spicier kick, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.
If you’re looking to lighten the dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use a plant-based cream alternative.

Variation

Creamy Tortellini Soup is highly adaptable. For a vegetarian version, replace the Italian sausage with lentils or mushrooms. You can also try different types of tortellini—spinach or mushroom tortellini can add an interesting twist. Additionally, changing the broth to vegetable stock can easily make this soup suitable for a vegetarian diet.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini in this recipe. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.

What other greens can I use in the soup?
Besides kale, you can incorporate spinach, Swiss chard, or even arugula. Just add them in towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can easily be made ahead of time. Just remember to add the cream just before serving to keep the texture creamy.