Creamy Tortellini Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting bowl of soup that’s packed with flavor and hearty enough to satisfy, this Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect solution. With its rich, creamy broth and tender three-cheese tortellini, it’s a crowd-pleaser that works for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a special weekend treat. The combination of savory Italian sausage, fragrant garlic, and fresh kale adds layers of flavor and texture, while the creamy base makes each spoonful feel indulgent and satisfying.

This soup is a wonderful balance of rich and light, with the hearty sausage and kale blending perfectly with the smooth, creamy broth. It’s a filling meal on its own but can also be served with crusty bread for dipping. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a family, this easy-to-make soup will quickly become a go-to for cold days or anytime you’re craving something comforting yet flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich and Creamy – A deliciously creamy broth that makes every bite irresistible.
2. Hearty and Filling – The combination of tortellini, sausage, and kale makes it a complete meal.
3. Quick and Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes for a weeknight-friendly dinner.
4. Customizable – Add more veggies, switch up the greens, or use a different kind of sausage.
5. Perfect for Leftovers – This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Italian sausage (casings removed)
• Garlic
• Sweet onion
• Italian seasoning
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• All-purpose flour
• Chicken stock
• Tomato sauce
• Parmesan rind (optional)
• Refrigerated three cheese tortellini
• Kale (stems removed and leaves chopped)
• Heavy cream
• Fresh basil

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use a plant-based sausage or omit the sausage entirely for a lighter, vegetarian version.
• Other Greens: Swap kale for spinach, swiss chard, or even arugula for different textures and flavors.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage for some heat.
• Make It Heartier: Add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for more depth of flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower gnocchi in place of the tortellini for a low-carb twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2

Add the minced garlic and diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 3

Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 4

Slowly pour in the chicken stock and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Add the Parmesan rind if using. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 5

Add the tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3–5 minutes, until the tortellini floats to the surface and is tender.

Step 6

Stir in the chopped kale and heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until the kale has wilted and the soup is heated through.

Step 7

Remove the Parmesan rind (if used) and stir in the fresh basil. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if necessary.

Step 8

Serve hot, garnished with extra basil or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Browning the sausage: Make sure to brown the sausage well for extra flavor.
• Use good-quality stock: Since the stock is the base of the soup, a flavorful chicken stock really enhances the taste.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Be sure to follow the package instructions for tortellini, as overcooking can cause them to fall apart in the soup.
• Add the kale at the end: Kale wilts quickly, so add it near the end of the cooking process to maintain its vibrant green color and texture.

How to Serve

This creamy tortellini soup is perfect on its own or served with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. You can also pair it with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal. For a bit of extra richness, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese or extra chopped fresh basil.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, just add the frozen tortellini directly to the soup without thawing and cook according to the package instructions.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4–6 hours and add the cream and kale in the last 30 minutes.

3. What if I don’t have kale?

Spinach is a great substitute for kale in this recipe, or you can use any leafy green you prefer.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute, and skip the Parmesan rind and heavy cream.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your pot is large enough, or divide the soup between two pots.

6. Can I use homemade stock instead of store-bought?

Yes, homemade chicken stock will add even more flavor to the soup.

7. Can I use sausage links instead of ground sausage?

Yes, just remove the casings and crumble the sausage as you cook it.

8. Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, penne, or shells will work well in this soup.

9. How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy?

Be sure to add the tortellini towards the end of cooking and follow the package directions to avoid overcooking.

10. How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored properly.

Conclusion

Creamy Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and full of satisfying flavors. The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and healthy greens makes this soup perfect for any occasion, whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to a cozy meal. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s a hearty bowl of warmth that will keep you coming back for more.

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