Spicy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Spicy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup is my go-to for a cozy weeknight meal. It’s packed with hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and fresh kale in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but fancy enough for company.

This Spicy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a true crowd-pleaser, combining classic Italian flavors with a satisfyingly hearty texture. It’s easy to customize to your spice preference, and the leftovers are even better the next day! So grab your soup pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love It

• Flavorful: The combination of spicy sausage, creamy broth, and cheesy tortellini creates an explosion of flavor in every bite.
• Hearty and Satisfying: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a complete and fulfilling meal.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup comes together in under an hour.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and ingredients to create your perfect bowl of comfort. From mild to fiery, creamy to chunky, the possibilities are endless.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: This soup is equally delicious for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge to create this flavorful soup:

• Italian Sausage: Choose hot or mild, depending on your spice preference. This is where much of the flavor comes from, so pick a good quality sausage!
• Aromatics: The classic trio of onion, garlic, and a touch of flour builds a flavorful base for your soup.
• Herbs and Spices: Dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (optional), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes add depth and warmth.
• Creamy Base: Heavy cream and chicken broth create a rich and savory broth that coats the tortellini perfectly.
• Greens and Pasta: Fresh kale adds a healthy boost, while cheese tortellini provides substance and delicious cheesy flavor.
• Seasoning: A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor and brings everything together. Remember, you can always adjust this to your taste!

From Start to Finish

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook and crumble the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Add the diced yellow onion to the pot and cook until the onion is softened and the sausage is cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Add Flour

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Stir in the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute to let the spices bloom.

Step 4: Build the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a silicone spatula to loosen any browned bits. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.

Step 5: Add Kale and Tortellini

Add the chopped kale and tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt to taste. Serve hot in bowls and enjoy!

Better-Than-Grandma Tips

• Brown the sausage well: This step develops a deep, rich flavor that permeates the entire soup. Make sure to crumble the sausage finely as it cooks for even browning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: When browning the sausage, give it plenty of space to ensure it browns properly and doesn’t steam. If necessary, brown it in batches.
• Simmer gently: Once the soup comes to a boil, reduce heat to a gentle simmer. This prevents the cream from curdling and ensures the tortellini cooks evenly without becoming mushy. For more helpful tips, check out our Soup Making Guide.
• Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices to your liking. You might even want to add a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Make It Your Way

This recipe is easy to adapt to your preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian: Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Spinach and Cheese: Swap the kale for spinach and use cheese-filled tortellini for an extra cheesy twist.
• Creamier Soup: Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream for a richer, more decadent soup. You can also use cream cheese or mascarpone for extra richness.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the heat. Looking for creamy inspiration? Check out our Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots, celery, or zucchini along with the kale.

How to Serve

This soup is fantastic on its own, but a few simple additions can make it a truly memorable meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a fresh green salad for a lighter touch. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor. For more serving inspiration, take a look at our Side Dish Recipes.

That’s a Wrap

This Spicy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a chilly weeknight dinner. The spicy sausage, creamy broth, and tender tortellini create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t forget a side of crusty bread for dipping! Until next time, happy cooking! Be sure to share your creations on social media – I love seeing your Paisley Recipes adventures! Connect with me on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and X/Twitter. Want more hearty soups? Check out my Creamy Tomato Soup recipe.