Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale

Instructions for Making Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the Italian sausage to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
• Once the sausage is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set it aside. If there’s excess grease, you can drain some off, but leave a little in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

• In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed, and sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

• Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Once the soup is simmering, add the cooked sausage back into the pot and stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Tortellini and Kale

• Bring the soup back to a simmer, then add the tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions (usually about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen).
• In the last 2 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped kale. Let the soup simmer until the kale is tender but still vibrant green.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Simmer

• Once the tortellini and kale are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Continue stirring until the soup is creamy and heated through.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
• Serve with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping, and enjoy this warm, comforting bowl of goodness.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup:

• Use fresh or frozen tortellini: You can use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini depending on what’s available. Frozen tortellini might take a little longer to cook but will work perfectly in this soup.
• Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter version of this soup, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. However, heavy cream will give you the thick and creamy texture that makes this soup so indulgent.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make it spicier: If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the sausage.
• Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, and it’s even better the next day! Reheat gently on the stove.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale:

This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup with Kale is the perfect combination of comfort and nutrition. The savory sausage adds depth of flavor, while the cheese-filled tortellini creates a satisfying bite. The kale not only adds a touch of color but also provides a healthy boost of fiber and vitamins. The creamy broth ties everything together into a luscious and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or entertaining guests, this soup is sure to become a new favorite. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and filling enough to serve as a stand-alone meal. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a light salad, and you’ve got yourself a deliciously comforting dinner that will please everyone at the table.