If you’re craving a hearty, cozy meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe will quickly become your new go-to. Packed with savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant kale, all swimming in a creamy, flavorful broth, this soup blends comfort and elegance effortlessly. It’s not only incredibly satisfying but comes together so quickly that it’s perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend treat. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be a staple in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two views of a white pan on a white marbled surface. In the first view, a woman's hand is pouring a clear yellowish liquid over brown cooked ground meat mixed with small bits of onion inside the pan. The meat looks crumbly and moist. In the second view, a woman's hand is pouring a thick white liquid into the same pan, which already contains a yellowish broth with floating bits of browned ground meat. The surface of the broth is smooth with some small bubbles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one contributes a unique layer of flavor, texture, or color, making the bowl both visually inviting and deliciously rich.

Ground Italian Sausage: Choose hot or mild depending on your spice preference; it forms the savory base.
Yellow Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
Garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and complexity.
Flour: Helps thicken the broth for that luscious creamy texture.
Dried Basil: Infuses a fragrant herbaceous note.
Oregano: Contributes an earthy, classic Italian flavor.
Cayenne (optional): Provides a subtle kick if you want a little heat.
Hot Sauce: A secret weapon that enhances all other flavors without overpowering.
Mustard Powder: Adds a delicate tanginess that rounds out the broth beautifully.
Black Pepper: Freshly ground for a bit of spicy sharpness.
Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle for extra warmth if you love some spice.
Heavy Cream: Makes the soup luxuriously silky and rich.
Chicken Broth: The flavorful liquid base that brings everything together.
Kale: Chopped for a pop of green color and mild bitterness that balances the richness.
Tortellini: Use refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini for a tender, pillowy bite.
Salt: To taste, to brighten and seal all flavors.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Onion

Begin by removing the casings from your sausage if needed. Cooking the crumbled sausage with diced onions over medium-high heat until the sausage is cooked through and onions soften creates a flavorful base. This step is essential as it builds the foundation of savory goodness you’ll love.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Flour

Once the sausage and onions are ready, add the minced garlic and cook for just about a minute until fragrant. Then toss in the flour and stir for 1-2 minutes. This little addition thickens your soup ever so slightly and ensures no raw flour flavor lingers in your broth.

Step 3: Season the Soup

Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. These spices are subtle but crucial—they enhance all the flavors and add a comforting warmth without overwhelming the dish.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Cream

Pour in chicken broth and use a spatula to scrape up any tasty bits stuck to your pot’s bottom—those bits hold so much flavor! Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where your soup starts becoming truly decadent.

Step 5: Cook the Kale and Tortellini

Add chopped kale and tortellini, simmering for 3-5 minutes. If your tortellini takes longer to cook, add it before the kale and give the kale the last 5 minutes to soften. This timing keeps your greens bright and fresh, and your pasta perfectly tender.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Give your soup a taste before serving and add salt as needed—start with a quarter teaspoon and adjust to your liking. Ladle into bowls and serve immediately. This soup pairs wonderfully with cheesy garlic bread for an extra special touch.

How to Serve Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe

The image shows two views of a round white pot with green handles on a white marbled surface. Inside the pot, there is a creamy white sauce base filled with multiple light yellow tortellini pasta pieces scattered evenly. Bright green leafy kale pieces float in the creamy sauce, adding vibrant color contrast. In the right view, small bits of browned sausage are mixed in with the pasta and kale. The sauce looks rich and smooth with specks of black and red seasoning sprinkled on top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped Italian parsley bring a lovely freshness and enhance the soup’s comforting flavor with a little salty punch. A drizzle of good olive oil on top can also add a beautiful shine and richness.

Side Dishes

Garlic bread with melted cheese is a classic companion, perfect for sopping up every last bit of the creamy broth. A simple side salad with lemon vinaigrette offers a bright counterbalance to the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in rustic bread bowls for an impressive yet cozy presentation. Alternatively, layering the soup over cooked polenta or risotto creates a hearty, soul-warming entrée that everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making tasty second-day meals.

Freezing

This soup can be frozen, but since tortellini tends to change texture after freezing, consider freezing the broth and sausage mixture separately from the pasta and kale. Reheat the frozen broth and add fresh tortellini and kale when ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching. If reheating in the microwave, do so in short bursts, stirring between each, so the soup heats evenly and stays creamy.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still brings plenty of flavor. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned or use your favorite Italian-spiced variety to keep that authentic taste.

What type of tortellini works best for this soup?

Cheese tortellini is the classic choice, but you can also use meat or spinach-filled tortellini. Refrigerated or frozen both work fine; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is kale necessary, or can I use another green?

You can swap kale for spinach, Swiss chard, or even collard greens. Each will bring a different texture and flavor, but all add that vibrant green goodness to the soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To adapt this recipe for a vegetarian diet, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be rich and satisfying.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level is mild with just a hint of warmth from cayenne, hot sauce, and red pepper flakes. You can easily leave out any of these elements or increase them if you prefer a spicier kick.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is a total winner when you want a soul-comforting meal that feels special but is incredibly easy to make. The balance of creamy broth, savory sausage, tender pasta, and greens delivers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a beloved part of your kitchen repertoire!