Sausage & Kale Soup

The transition from winter to early spring calls for cozy yet fresh meals, and this Sausage and Kale Soup is just that. Packed with hearty sausage, tender kale, and cheese tortellini in a rich, flavorful broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with crusty bread for the perfect comforting meal!

1 lb sweet Italian sausage (hot or mild, casings removed)

2 cups very finely chopped kale

1 small onion, diced

3 minced cloves of garlic

1 package cheese tortellini (10 oz)

5 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy whipping cream

3 tbsp flour

1 tsp dried basil

1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp hot sauce

Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Pinch of red pepper flakes

1/2 tsp mustard powder

Parmesan cheese rind (optional)

Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Crunchy bread (for serving)

Step 1: Take 1 lb of sweet Italian sausage, remove casings, and brown it in a large pot. Chop into small pieces as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the diced onion to the sausage and cook until the onion is translucent and the sausage is fully cooked.

Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and 3 tbsp of flour. Mix well to eliminate the starchy taste. Drain grease if needed (Mine wasn’t too greasyI didn’t need to).

Step 4: Add dried basil, oregano, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, and mustard powder. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Pour in the heavy whipping cream. The cream and flour will form a roux that helps thicken the soup.

Step 6: Add 5 cups of chicken broth and stir.

Step 7: Stir in the chopped kale and tortellini. If you like extra flavor, throw in a piece of Parmesan cheese rind.

Step 8: Let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes until the tortellini is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Step 9: Remove the Parmesan rind (if used). Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread on the side.