Save Settle into a cozy autumn evening with this Pumpkin Tortellini Soup. This flavorful main dish brings together the creamy richness of pumpkin puree with the savory bite of chicken sausage and cheese-filled tortellini. Enhanced with fresh kale and aromatic spices like nutmeg and thyme, it is a hearty, comforting meal that captures the best of the season in every spoonful.
Save As the weather cools down, there is nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to warm you up. This Italian-inspired recipe is designed for ease, utilizing simple ingredients to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Whether you are hosting a casual dinner or looking for a quick weeknight escape, this soup is sure to become a staple in your autumn rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
- 12 oz (340 g) chicken sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 9 oz (250 g) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Add garlic and chicken sausage; cook 3–4 minutes until sausage is lightly browned.
- Step 3
- Stir in pumpkin puree, chicken broth, thyme, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 4
- Add kale and tortellini; simmer uncovered for 8–10 minutes until tortellini are tender and kale is wilted.
- Step 5
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Step 6
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan and parsley if using. Serve hot.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the best texture, be careful not to overcook the tortellini, as they will continue to soften in the hot soup base. This recipe requires a large soup pot and a wooden spoon for stirring. If you find the soup becomes too thick upon standing, simply stir in a splash more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily modify this dish by substituting turkey or plant-based sausage for the chicken sausage. For a different flavor profile, use butternut squash puree in place of pumpkin. If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream.
Serviervorschläge
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread and a crisp white wine. For the best presentation, garnish each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Save This Pumpkin Tortellini Soup with Chicken Sausage and Kale is the ultimate seasonal comfort food. Quick to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it provides a flavorful and nourishing way to enjoy the cozy vibes of autumn with your family and friends.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the soup up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the tortellini when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy. The flavors actually develop and improve overnight.
- → What can I substitute for the heavy cream?
Half-and-half creates a lighter version while maintaining creaminess. Coconut milk adds dairy-free richness with subtle sweetness. For a completely dairy-free option, use cashew cream or pureed white beans.
- → Is frozen kale acceptable in this soup?
Frozen kale works well if fresh isn't available. Thaw and drain it before adding to the soup. The texture will be slightly softer than fresh, but the flavor remains excellent.
- → Can I use different pasta shapes?
Small shells, orecchiette, or ditalini make great alternatives to tortellini. Adjust cooking time based on package directions, adding the pasta directly to the simmering broth.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The tortellini will continue absorbing liquid, so add extra broth when reheating. Freeze without the cream for up to 3 months and add fresh cream when serving.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace chicken sausage with plant-based sausage or white beans. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup remains hearty and satisfying while being completely meat-free.