Kielbasa Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish packed with smoky sausage, tender tortellini, and a flavorful broth. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy, satisfying meal that’s ready in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes for a stress-free dinner.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
- Hearty and Filling: With kielbasa, tortellini, and vegetables, it’s a complete meal in a bowl.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Kielbasa (sliced)
- Cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- Onion (chopped)
- Carrots (sliced)
- Celery (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Chicken broth
- Diced tomatoes (canned)
- Spinach or kale (optional)
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Directions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions (usually 5–7 minutes).
- Add the browned kielbasa and spinach or kale, if using. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes until the greens are wilted.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Serves 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half before serving.
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy kielbasa for extra heat.
- Vegetable Boost: Include zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more veggies.
- Herbal Flair: Add fresh basil or parsley for a burst of flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Swap tortellini for zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a bit of broth if the soup thickens too much.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly in this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.
What type of kielbasa should I use?
Any smoked or pre-cooked kielbasa works well. Use turkey kielbasa for a lighter option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but cook the tortellini separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Can I use beef or vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Use whatever broth you prefer or have on hand.
What pairs well with this soup?
Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the kielbasa and broth are gluten-free.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Choose dairy-free tortellini or substitute the tortellini with a non-dairy pasta alternative.
Can I use a slow cooker?
Yes, cook all ingredients except the tortellini on low for 6–7 hours. Add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes.
What other greens can I use instead of spinach?
Kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula are great substitutes.
Conclusion
Kielbasa Tortellini Soup is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky sausage, tender pasta, and hearty broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you make it creamy, spicy, or packed with veggies, this soup is endlessly adaptable and always delicious. Enjoy a warm, comforting bowl today!
Print
Kielbasa Tortellini Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful soup combines smoky kielbasa, tender tortellini, and fresh vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for a comforting dinner, it’s quick to prepare and loved by all!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz (340 g) kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups (about 8 oz / 225 g) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the kielbasa:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the kielbasa with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Prepare the soup base:
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook the tortellini:
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the tortellini. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Add the kielbasa and greens:
- Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Stir in the spinach or kale (if using) and simmer for 1-2 minutes, just until the greens are wilted.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Notes
- For a creamier version, stir in ½ cup (120 ml) of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the tortellini.