There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and this Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup hits all the right notes. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is both comforting and packed with flavor. The combination of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and tender tortellini creates a hearty meal that is sure to please everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The mix of Italian sausage and spices ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: This soup works wonderfully as a main course or as a starter for your favorite Italian meal.
- Comforting Experience: Ideal for chilly days, this soup provides warmth and coziness with every spoonful.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Silicone spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing all ingredients to blend well together.
- Silicone spatula: Perfect for scraping the bottom of the pot without damaging it, ensuring you get all those flavorful bits.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, saving you valuable prep time.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For Flavoring
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- 1 pinch cayenne (optional)
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
For Creaminess
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 cups chicken broth
For Vegetables
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz. (refrigerated or frozen))
Seasoning
- Salt to taste
How to Make Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Step 1: Cook the Sausage and Onions
Cook and crumble the sausage along with the diced onions over medium-high heat until the onions are softened and the sausage is cooked through. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess grease afterward.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour
Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Mix in Herbs and Spices
Stir in dried basil, oregano, cayenne, hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to release any stuck particles. Gradually stir in heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer.
Step 6: Add Kale and Tortellini
Add chopped kale and tortellini into the soup. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until tortellini is tender. Adjust seasoning by adding salt as needed.
Step 7: Serve Hot
Serve your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup hot in bowls — perfect for sharing!
How to Serve Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Serving Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your soup night.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread – A thick slice of sourdough is perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and complements the spices in the soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves – Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic finish that enhances the Italian flavors.
With Grated Cheese
- Parmesan Cheese – A generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty taste.
- Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella can provide a gooey texture that pairs beautifully with the tortellini.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings a crunchy element that balances the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Greens – Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
How to Perfect Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup

Perfecting your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can take it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Adjust Spice Levels – Tailor the heat by modifying cayenne or hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
- Cook Tortellini Separately – For firmer pasta, cook tortellini separately and add it just before serving.
- Simmer Gently – Letting your soup simmer allows flavors to meld together, creating a richer taste.
- Store Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.
- Reheat Slowly – When reheating, do so slowly over low heat to maintain creaminess without curdling.
Best Side Dishes for Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Garlic Knots – Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter make for perfect dipping companions.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing side.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a nice crunch.
- Risotto – Creamy risotto can complement your soup’s flavors while adding a comforting touch.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness and add texture to your meal.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with rice, cheese, or sausage offer a hearty addition alongside your soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make the best Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, avoid these common pitfalls.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your soup can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust salt and spices before serving.
- Overcooking the tortellini: If you let the tortellini cook too long, they can become mushy. Follow package instructions for perfect texture.
- Using low-quality sausage: The type of sausage you choose impacts the overall flavor. Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for a rich taste.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the soup’s flavor. Don’t settle for dried when fresh options are available.
- Not letting it simmer: Rushing the cooking process can result in unbalanced flavors. Allow time for the soup to simmer and meld together.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The soup keeps well for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered baking dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup so comforting?
Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup combines savory sausage with tender tortellini in a creamy broth, creating a warm dish that feels like a hug on chilly days.
Can I customize my Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers or swap out kale for spinach. Adjust spice levels by adding more or less cayenne.
How do I know when my tortellini is cooked?
Tortellini should float to the surface of your soup when ready, usually taking about 3-5 minutes in simmering broth.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or even turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option while still enjoying great flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you crave comfort food. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients!
PrintSpicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Experience the comforting warmth of Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, a delightful dish that brings together savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and a creamy broth infused with aromatic herbs. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, making it an ideal choice for cozy dinners. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful meal in no time. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste buds. Enjoy a bowl of this satisfying soup that promises to warm your soul and tantalize your palate!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale (chopped)
- 2 cups tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground sausage and diced onions until the onions are softened and the sausage is thoroughly cooked (8-10 minutes). Drain excess grease.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly.
- Add dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes; combine well.
- Pour in chicken broth while scraping any stuck bits from the bottom of the pot. Gradually stir in heavy cream and bring to a boil before reducing to a simmer.
- Add chopped kale and tortellini; let simmer for 3-5 minutes until tortellini is tender. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
- Serve hot in bowls.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 840mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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