Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup

Name: Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped; 1 cup tortellini (fresh or frozen); Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

This hearty Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup combines the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the slight bitterness of broccoli rabe, all enveloped in tender tortellini for a comforting meal.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-06T18:25:54.475Z

This Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup is perfect for a chilly evening. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite in our household. The earthiness of the broccoli rabe beautifully complements the savory sausage, while the tortellini adds a delightful texture. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delicious blend of savory sausage and fresh greens
Comforting and hearty, perfect for any season
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

A Perfect Winter Warmer

As the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and nourishment. This Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of savory sausage and the earthy bitterness of broccoli rabe creates a delightful harmony that warms you from the inside out. It's the perfect dish for those chilly evenings when you want something hearty yet wholesome.

When you serve this soup, you're not just providing food; you're creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages family and friends to gather around the table. Each spoonful of this robust soup offers a blend of textures and flavors, making it a staple for your winter menu.

Nutrition and Benefits

Broccoli rabe is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as beneficial antioxidants. It’s an excellent choice for boosting your immune system, especially during cold and flu season. Paired with Italian sausage, this dish offers a balance of protein and greens that can help support a healthy diet while satisfying your cravings for comfort food.

Tortellini, whether fresh or frozen, adds a delightful chewiness to the soup, making every bite satisfying. This dish not only fills you up but also provides essential nutrients, making it a well-rounded option for your family’s dinner.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this soup is its versatility. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using turkey or chicken sausage instead of traditional Italian sausage. This simple swap can reduce the fat content while still delivering a robust flavor. You can also experiment with different types of greens, such as spinach or kale, if broccoli rabe isn’t available.

For added richness, incorporate a splash of cream or a dollop of pesto to elevate the flavors further. Don't hesitate to toss in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients. This recipe invites creativity, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 bunch broccoli rabe, chopped
1 cup tortellini (fresh or frozen)
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth preparation.

Instructions

Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Simmer the Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the chopped broccoli rabe and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften.

Cook the Tortellini

Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious homemade soup!

Storing and Reheating

This Broccoli Rabe and Sausage Tortellini Soup keeps well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld, enhancing the taste of the soup over time. Just be sure to store the tortellini separate if you plan to keep it for a longer period.

When reheating, do so on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the texture of the tortellini and prevent it from becoming mushy. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the soup thickens too much during storage. This maintains the soup’s inviting consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the soup beautifully. Alternatively, serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up every drop of the delicious broth.

For an extra touch, consider garnishing with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a bit of heat. These small details can elevate your meal and make it feel restaurant-worthy right at home.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of green instead of broccoli rabe?

Yes, you can substitute with spinach or kale if you prefer.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the sausage and use vegetable broth along with your favorite plant-based protein.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.