Name: Sausage Kale Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 pound sweet Italian chicken sausage, removed from casings; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 1/2 cup celery, chopped; 1/2 cup carrot, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, peeled, smashed and finely minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 1/2 teaspoons dried Italian herbs; 1/2 teaspoon dried fennel; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 2 Turkish bay leaves; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 (14-ounce) can chopped tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional); 1 2-inch piece Parmesan cheese; 1 (9-ounce) package cheese tortellini; 1 cup lacinato kale, chopped

Why You’ll Love Sausage Kale Tortellini Soup Recipe

This soup is full of bold, savory flavors from the sausage and herbs, balanced by the freshness of kale and the richness of cheese tortellini. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of textures—from tender vegetables to chewy pasta—makes every bite satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound sweet Italian chicken sausage, removed from casings
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
1/2 cup carrot, chopped
4 cloves garlic, peeled, smashed and finely minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
1/2 teaspoon dried fennel
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 Turkish bay leaves
6 cups chicken broth
1 14-ounce can chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional)
1 2-inch piece Parmesan cheese
1 9-ounce package cheese tortellini
1 cup lacinato kale, chopped

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add the sausage (with casings removed) and break it apart with a spoon. Cook for 7 to 10 minutes until browned, then transfer it to a bowl and set aside.

In the same pot, add more oil if needed. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.

Add the oregano, Italian herbs, fennel, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves. Stir to coat the vegetables in the seasonings.

Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and chopped tomatoes, then add the Parmesan cheese piece. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Add the tortellini and cook for another 5 minutes, or until tender.

Stir in the chopped kale and cook just until wilted.

Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

You can swap chicken sausage for pork or turkey sausage depending on your preference. For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. Spinach can be used instead of kale for a milder flavor. If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep in mind that the tortellini may absorb some of the broth over time.

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, frozen tortellini works well. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, you can cook the tortellini separately and add it when reheating.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini, as pasta can become mushy when thawed.

What can I use instead of kale?

Spinach or Swiss chard are great substitutes.

Do I have to use Parmesan cheese rind?

No, but it adds extra depth of flavor. You can skip it if unavailable.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add beans or mushrooms for extra texture.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you may need to cook them longer to break down and develop flavor.

What type of pot works best?

A large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms would all work well.

Conclusion

Sausage Kale Tortellini Soup is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any day of the week. With its hearty ingredients and rich broth, it’s a satisfying dish that brings warmth and nourishment to the table.