I discovered this creamy sausage tortellini soup trying to jazz up our usual pasta night. The way those tender tortellini and savory sausage swim in that rich broth with just a hint of heat makes dinner magic in 30 minutes. That splash of hot sauce and touch of mustard powder? Trust me they make all the difference.
What Makes It Special
This soup hits all the right notes creamy but not heavy cozy but still fresh. Sneaking in some kale or spinach keeps it balanced while that hint of heat makes everything pop. Perfect for those nights when you want something that tastes like you spent hours but really didn't.
Your Shopping List
- Sweet Italian Sausage: Get the good stuff it makes a difference.
- Fresh Tortellini: Those little pasta pillows filled with cheese.
- Greens: Kale or spinach whatever makes you happy.
- Seasonings: That mustard powder and hot sauce work magic.
- Cream: Just enough to make it silky.
- Broth: Rich chicken or vegetable both work great.
- Fresh Herbs: For that perfect finishing touch.
Let's Cook Together
- Start With Sausage: Brown it up breaking into bite size pieces.
- Build The Base: Add veggies seasonings let them get friendly.
- Make It Soupy: Pour in that broth let everything simmer.
- Add The Stars: Drop in tortellini cook just until tender.
- Final Touch: Stir in cream greens let them wilt just right.
Kitchen Secrets
Pop a parmesan rind in while it simmers makes everything richer. Switch kale for spinach if you like it milder. Fresh tortellini cooks quicker tastes better than dried. Play with the hot sauce make it perfect for your taste.
Save Some For Later
Keeps nice in the fridge 3 days freezes up to 3 months. When reheating warm it gentle add splash of broth if needed. Pro tip cook fresh tortellini when serving keeps them perfect.
Tools You'll Need
Good soup pot about 4 quarts works perfect. Keep those spices handy measuring spoons ready. Nice containers for leftovers that don't leak. Kitchen scale helps get that sausage amount just right.
Mix It Up
Try turkey sausage makes it lighter. Toss in extra veggies carrots celery whatever you love. Want it spicy? Use hot Italian sausage add red pepper flakes. Different tortellini fillings keep it interesting.
Perfect Partners
Some crusty bread on the side catches all that good broth. Light salad with tangy dressing keeps things fresh. Little extra parmesan or dollop of pesto on top makes it special.
Quick Answers
Make ahead? Just save those tortellini for later. Frozen pasta works fine might need extra cook time. Switch greens however you like. Want it lighter? Try low fat cream turkey sausage does the trick.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes, brown sausage and add flour first, then cook everything except cream and tortellini for 4-5 hours on high or 6-7 on low. Add kale near end and stir in warmed cream after cooking.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in fridge up to 3 days or freeze 3 months. Cook tortellini separately if planning leftovers as they'll keep absorbing broth.
- → Can I substitute the kale?
- Yes, use 2-3 cups spinach instead. Add after tortellini is cooked and let wilt for 30 seconds.
- → Why add mustard powder and hot sauce?
- These ingredients enhance other flavors subtly without making the soup spicy. They're recommended even if you're hesitant.
- → What kind of tortellini works best?
- Both refrigerated or frozen tortellini work well. RANA refrigerated cheese tortellini is recommended.
Conclusion
This 30-minute soup features Italian sausage and cheese tortellini in a creamy broth with kale. Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners.