Pumpkin Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Embrace the flavors of autumn with this Pumpkin Tortellini Soup with Chicken Sausage and Kale. This cozy and creamy meal combines tender pumpkin puree with savory chicken sausage and cheesy tortellini for a hearty experience that is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.

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Whether you are looking for a comforting lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this Italian-inspired soup brings together seasonal ingredients in a way that feels both gourmet and home-cooked. The hint of nutmeg and dried thyme elevates the broth, making it the ultimate fall comfort dish.

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 and chopped fresh parsley (for 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 prepare this dish efficiently, use a sharp chefs knife and a cutting board for the vegetables. A large soup pot and a wooden spoon are essential for sautéing and simmering. Please note that this recipe contains wheat and milk, and may contain egg depending on the brand of tortellini used.

Varianten und Anpassungen

You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting turkey or plant-based sausage for the chicken sausage. For a different flavor profile, use butternut squash puree instead of pumpkin. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half can be used in place of heavy cream.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread for dipping and a crisp white wine. Use a ladle to serve generous portions and garnish each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan and parsley for a professional touch.

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Each serving provides 470 calories with 24 g of protein, making this a balanced and filling meal. Enjoy this bowl of autumn warmth with your loved ones for a truly cozy dining experience.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, you can use homemade pumpkin puree. Roast pumpkin chunks until tender, then blend until smooth. You'll need about 2 cups of puree for this dish.

→ What type of chicken sausage works best?

Italian-style chicken sausage with herbs works wonderfully, but any mild or spicy variety complements the pumpkin well. Choose pre-cooked or raw sausage based on preference.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the soup without the tortellini and cream, then refrigerate up to 3 days. When reheating, add the tortellini and cream to prevent overcooking the pasta.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The tortellini may absorb liquid, so add extra broth when reheating to restore the desired consistency.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

It's best to freeze the soup base without tortellini and cream. Add fresh tortellini and cream after thawing and reheating for optimal texture and flavor.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half, coconut cream, or even whole milk work well for a lighter version. Coconut cream adds a subtle sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.