Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is quick, easy, and full of flavor. The combination of sausage and tortellini makes it satisfying, while the kale adds a nice touch of nutrition. Plus, it’s a creamy, comforting dish that everyone will love, making it the perfect family-friendly meal. With only one pot to clean, it’s a stress-free dinner that can be made in less than 30 minutes!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb sausage (Italian or breakfast)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp basil
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups kale, chopped (or spinach)
- 1 package cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Directions
- In a large pot, cook the sausage, onions, and garlic over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft.
- Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Stir in basil, oregano, hot sauce, mustard powder, and pepper, mixing to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the soup to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer.
- Add the kale and tortellini, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve with a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Spinach: Use spinach instead of kale for a milder flavor.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of hot sauce or add a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. If the soup thickens too much, add a little extra broth or water.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated tortellini. Just add it to the soup and cook a bit longer until tender.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian sausage.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free because of the tortellini. You can use gluten-free tortellini to make it gluten-free.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. However, the tortellini may become soft after freezing and reheating.
6. Can I use heavy cream alternatives?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk as a substitute for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter option.
7. Can I use other greens instead of kale?
Yes, spinach or Swiss chard would be great substitutes for kale in this recipe.
8. How do I make this soup thicker?
If you’d like a thicker soup, you can add a bit more flour or use a hand blender to blend part of the soup to create a creamier texture.
9. What should I serve with this soup?
Garlic bread, biscuits, or a simple side salad would pair wonderfully with this soup.
10. Can I make this soup in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the sausage and onions in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Let it cook on low for 3-4 hours, adding the kale and tortellini towards the end.
Conclusion
This Sausage Tortellini Soup is everything you want in a quick, hearty meal—creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, it’s a dish that will satisfy everyone. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Author: Amy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. Packed with savory sausage, tender tortellini, and healthy kale, this one-pot meal is quick, delicious, and ready in just 30 minutes. The rich broth and creamy texture make it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage (Italian or breakfast)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp basil
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp hot sauce
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups kale, chopped (or spinach)
- 1 package cheese tortellini (refrigerated)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large pot, cook the sausage, onions, and garlic over medium heat until the sausage is browned and the onions are soft.
- Make the base: Add the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously.
- Add seasonings: Stir in basil, oregano, hot sauce, mustard powder, and pepper.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Add the vegetables and tortellini: Add the kale and tortellini, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
- Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve with a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
- Spinach Substitute: Use spinach instead of kale for a milder flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the hot sauce or add a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.