Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup

Name: Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini; 2 cups kale, chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it's the perfect meal for chilly evenings.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-06T15:22:21.575Z

This Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup combines the richness of sausage with the nutritious greens of kale, all enveloped in a velvety broth. It's a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that soothes your senses
Hearty sausage flavor balances perfectly with fresh kale
Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners

      

The Comfort of Soup

Soup is often associated with warmth and comfort, making it a beloved choice during the colder months. Its soothing qualities can bring a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup is no exception, wrapping you in a blanket of rich flavors and hearty ingredients that nourish both body and soul.

One of the great things about soup is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer a little more spice, additional vegetables, or a vegetarian twist, you can adapt this recipe to create your perfect bowl of comfort.

Moreover, soups are typically simple to make, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Health Benefits of Kale

Kale has gained popularity in recent years for its impressive nutritional profile. This leafy green is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential minerals like calcium and potassium. Incorporating kale into your meals not only adds a vibrant color but also boosts the overall healthiness of your dish.

In addition to its vitamins and minerals, kale is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat inflammation and promote overall wellness. Including kale in your diet can support heart health, improve digestion, and even enhance skin health, making it a fantastic addition to this creamy soup.

When cooked, kale becomes tender and flavorful, complementing the savory sausage and creamy broth beautifully. This recipe ensures you’re not only enjoying a delicious meal but also reaping the many health benefits that kale offers.

Perfect Pairings

Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. A warm, crusty bread or a light green salad can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Consider serving it with garlic bread for a classic combination that will leave everyone satisfied.

For a beverage pairing, a crisp white wine or a light beer can complement the flavors in the soup beautifully. If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can refresh your palate. No matter how you choose to enjoy this dish, the right pairings will enhance your meal.

Don’t forget about dessert! Following this hearty soup with a light dessert, such as a fruit sorbet or a slice of lemon tart, can provide a refreshing end to your meal, balancing the richness of the soup.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious soup:

Soup Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini
2 cups kale, chopped
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to prepare your soup:

Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Broth and Tortellini

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Incorporate Kale and Cream

Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the kale is wilted and the soup is heated through.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious soup!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of this Creamy Sausage & Kale Tortellini Soup, you're in luck! The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. To store, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. However, keep in mind that the cream may change in texture once thawed. To freeze, omit the heavy cream until reheating. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat gently on the stove, adding the cream just before serving.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can easily swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based sausage or simply omitting the meat and adding more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.

If you want to enhance the flavor profile, you can add spices such as red pepper flakes for a kick or Italian seasoning for an aromatic touch. Experimenting with different types of tortellini, such as spinach or mushroom-filled, can also create unique variations of this comforting soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well in this recipe. Just add them directly to the soup without thawing.

→ How can I make this soup healthier?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a low-fat milk alternative.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.