Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe

Introduction

When the chilly evenings of fall and winter arrive, there’s nothing more comforting than a hearty bowl of soup. My family adores this Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup; it’s a dish that not only warms the body but also brings a delightful burst of flavor to the table. The combination of spicy Italian sausage and tender tortellini creates a satisfying meal that everyone looks forward to. After the first spoonful, you’ll find it hard to resist going back for seconds!

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage (hot or mild)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 5 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups kale, chopped
• 2 cups tortellini (just under 10 oz, refrigerated or frozen)
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup:

1. Cook the Sausage and Onions: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add the ground Italian sausage and diced onions. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, breaking up the sausage until it’s fully cooked and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sausage mixture. Stir for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Seasoning: Mix in the dried basil, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), hot sauce, mustard powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Add Broth and Cream: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a spatula. Gradually mix in the heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer.
6. Add Kale and Tortellini: Stir in the chopped kale and tortellini. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, ideally with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 480

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

Enhance your soup experience with these serving suggestions:

• Hot: Serve immediately while the soup is steaming.
• Garnished: Top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• With Bread: Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• In Bowls: Use rustic bowls to create a warm, inviting presentation.
• Toppings: Consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

1. Choose Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne and hot sauce based on your heat preference.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can significantly enhance the soup’s flavor.
3. Mix Protein: For variety, consider mixing in other proteins like diced chicken or turkey sausage.
4. Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
5. Leftover Vegetables: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand, such as carrots or bell peppers.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup: Add a can of crushed tomatoes for a richer flavor profile.
• Cheesy Tortellini Soup: Stir in some shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Herbed Version: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor.
• Zesty Lime: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a zesty finish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this flavorful soup with:

• Salads: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
• Breadsticks: Serve with warm breadsticks for a complete meal.
• Cheese Plates: A small cheese platter can elevate the dining experience.
• Appetizers: Consider pairing with appetizers like bruschetta or stuffed mushrooms.
• Wine: A glass of red wine complements the spices beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen tortellini? Yes, frozen tortellini works great in this recipe!
2. How can I make it less spicy? Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a milder flavor.
3. Can I use a different type of sausage? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with turkey, chicken, or vegetarian sausages.
4. What can I substitute for kale? Spinach or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives.
5. Is it okay to add more vegetables? Yes, adding veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini can enhance the soup.
6. Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, the flavors meld beautifully when made ahead and can be stored for a few days.
7. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. Can I add beans to this recipe? Yes, white beans or chickpeas can add extra protein and texture.
9. Is this soup gluten-free? To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and tortellini.
10. Can I add pasta instead of tortellini? Yes, small pasta shapes can be substituted, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

This Spicy Sausage and Tortellini Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. With its robust flavors and heartwarming ingredients, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or chilly nights in. Whether you follow the classic recipe or make your own variations, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this dish, and happy cooking!

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