From the moment my youngest asked for Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale after a long day at school, I knew this recipe was a keeper. It came about one chilly afternoon when my family craved something comforting but easy to pull together. I whipped up this warm, hearty soup without too much fuss, and their smiles around the table made it clear this sausage and kale pasta soup was special. What makes this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale stand out is how it brings together those cozy Italian flavors with ingredients you already have on hand.
It isn’t just dinner; it’s a chance for everyone to slow down and connect. Each bite feels like a hug—a welcome break from busy schedules. After mastering this soup in my kitchen, I’m confident you’ll find it becomes a go-to recipe for your own family meals. If you want to enjoy a dish that’s both satisfying and simple, I invite you to try this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale. It’s a wonderful way to gather loved ones and share a meal that warms both the belly and the heart.
What you’ll love is how this Italian tortellini soup balances wholesome ingredients with rich flavors, making it perfect for weeknights or feeding a crowd. Whether you’re new to making sausage kale soup or looking for a creamy tortellini soup that hits the spot, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s talk about what you’ll need to bring this warm, delicious meal to your table.
What You’ll Need
For a cozy bowl of Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale, here’s the ingredient list that keeps it simple yet full of flavor:

- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on your family’s preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (for a rich base)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups fresh kale, stems removed and chopped
- 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy tortellini soup version)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
You’ll find everything for this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale at your regular grocery store. Look for fresh tortellini in the refrigerated pasta section or frozen where ravioli and tortellini often live. For the Italian sausage soup recipe, picking quality sausage makes a big difference. I recommend a brand with a good balance of seasoning—not too salty and not too fatty.
If you want to swap things around, this sausage kale soup is forgiving. You can use spinach instead of kale if that’s what you have. For a vegetarian twist, replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or store-bought meatless Italian sausage. Fresh garlic and herbs really lift the flavor, but if you’re tight on time, garlic powder and dried Italian seasoning will work in a pinch.
I love adding a splash of cream for a creamy tortellini soup version — it rounds out the flavors nicely. My family prefers mild sausage, so I always adjust the spice level for this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale to keep everyone happy.
How to Make It
Making Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale is as comforting as eating it. Here’s step-by-step how I bring this soup together, usually in under 45 minutes.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until nicely browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. This step builds the base flavor for the whole soup, so don’t rush it.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion to the browned sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling so inviting here.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. This Italian sausage soup recipe is where the flavors come together beautifully.
- Simmer Kale: Add chopped kale to the pot and simmer for about 5 minutes until the kale is tender but still has a little bite. You’ll know it’s just right because the color stays vibrant and the soup smells herbal and fresh.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Finish the Soup: For a creamy tortellini soup, stir in heavy cream now. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t worry if the soup looks thick or rich; that’s what makes the sausage and kale pasta soup such a satisfying meal.
While your Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale cooks, the smell will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation. Keep an eye on the tortellini so it’s perfectly tender without overcooking. I always remember to taste and adjust seasoning before serving—a little salt goes a long way here.
How long does it take? Typically, this meal comes together in about 40-45 minutes from start to finish, so it’s manageable for weeknights or when you want a comforting dinner without a lot of fuss.
Serving Ideas
Everyone reaches for seconds when this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale comes out on the table. My family loves it served with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up every bit of that delicious broth.

This Italian tortellini soup is perfect for colder days when you want something hearty but not heavy. It’s a great option to serve for casual gatherings or when you want to impress without stress. For a simple side, a crisp green salad balances the richness of the sausage and kale soup.
Leftovers? They keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it thickens too much. I’ve also tried adding a handful of shredded Parmesan on top for an easy dinner upgrade.
Variations we enjoy include swapping kale for spinach or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat. Some nights, I add a little chopped carrot or celery for extra flavor and texture.
If you love this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale, you should also check out these recipes from MomsGate: creamy Reuben soup, white lasagna soup recipe, or chicken Alfredo soup for more meal wins.
Your Questions Answered
Can I make this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the base soup without the tortellini and refrigerate it up to 2 days in advance. Add and cook the tortellini fresh when you’re ready to eat. This helps keep the pasta from getting mushy.
What if I don’t have fresh tortellini?
Frozen tortellini works just as well. If you can only find dried tortellini or other stuffed pasta, adjust the cooking time according to package directions. The key is to cook the pasta until just tender.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of sausage?
Yes. The flavor will be lighter, so consider adding some Italian seasoning and a touch of fennel seed to mimic sausage’s flavor profile. This sausage and kale soup stays tasty with simple swaps.
Is kale the best green for this soup?
Kale’s texture and slight bitterness work wonderfully, but spinach or Swiss chard can replace it in a pinch. Just add these more delicate greens later in cooking so they don’t overcook.
How do I store leftover Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale?
Store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding broth if needed to loosen the soup.
Can I freeze Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale?
Freezing is possible but not ideal for the tortellini — it can become mushy. Freeze the soup without pasta, and add fresh tortellini when you’re ready to serve.
What’s the best way to adjust spice level?
Use mild Italian sausage for less heat. If you like spice, opt for hot sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes while cooking. You control the warmth easily.
If you want more tips or a recipe variation, this Italian Sausage, Kale and Tortellini Soup – Cooking Classy is a great resource. Another fun version is the Tortellini Soup with Italian Sausage and Kale on The Modern Proper, offering a slightly different take. For a cozy twist, I recommend Sausage Tortellini Soup – The Cozy Cook.
The Final Word
This Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale has become one of my family’s favorite go-to meals. It fits right into busy weeknights but feels special enough for a weekend supper. The balance of spicy sausage, hearty kale, and tender tortellini creates a comforting meal that’s anything but boring.
My Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale Tips:
- Brown the sausage well to develop rich flavor that carries through the soup.
- Don’t add tortellini too early; cook it last so it stays tender and doesn’t turn mushy.
- A splash of cream adds lovely richness and softens the bite of spices.
I’ve tried swapping kale for spinach, including mushrooms with the sausage, and making a dairy-free version that still delights my family. Everyone from picky eaters to hungry teens loves it, especially when served with crusty bread or a side salad.
For more hearty pasta soups, visit MomsGate’s chicken Alfredo soup or creamy Reuben soup for meal ideas your family will ask for again. I hope your family loves this Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale as much as mine does. It’s an easy way to bring everyone together around the table and enjoy a meal full of comforting flavors. I’m cheering you on for your next kitchen win with this recipe!
Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale
This hearty Tortellini Soup with Sausage and Kale combines flavorful Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and nutrient-rich kale in a savory broth, perfect for a cozy meal any day.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups kale, stemmed and chopped
- 9 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute more.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in dried oregano and red pepper flakes, if using. Bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and add chopped kale. Cook until kale is wilted, about 5 minutes.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes, until tender.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream just before serving or substitute spicy sausage for a bolder flavor.

