Creamy Tortellini Soup is a cozy bowl of comfort, filled with tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, flavorful Italian sausage, and a rich, creamy tomato broth. This soup is a perfect mix of cheesy and hearty, with just the right amount of garlic and herbs to bring everything together.
I love making this soup on chilly days when I want something quick but still feels special. The combination of sausage and tortellini makes it filling without feeling too heavy, and the spinach adds a nice pop of color and freshness. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day!
For serving, I always like to pair it with warm, crusty bread to soak up all the tasty broth. It’s a meal everyone in my family loves, and it’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but cozy enough to share with friends. This soup has become a go-to comfort food in my kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds a nice, savory flavor to the soup. You can use mild or spicy depending on your preference. For a lighter option, try turkey sausage or skip it for a vegetarian version.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is classic here, but feel free to use spinach or meat-filled tortellini. If you want a gluten-free version, look for gluten-free tortellini or replace it with small pasta like shells.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, carrot, and garlic create a flavorful base. If you’re short on time, frozen mixed veggies can work too. Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition but kale or Swiss chard would be good swaps.
Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its creamy, rich texture. You can substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, but it will change the flavor a bit.
Herbs & Seasoning: Dried basil and oregano add Italian flair. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a brighter taste. Don’t forget salt and black pepper to bring out all the flavors.
How Do You Keep Tortellini from Getting Mushy in the Soup?
Tortellini cooks quickly and can get mushy if overdone. To avoid this:
- Add the tortellini toward the end of cooking—usually in the last 3-5 minutes.
- Follow the package cooking time closely and test one or two pieces before draining.
- Stir gently to avoid breaking the pasta.
- If making leftovers, keep tortellini separate and add it freshly to each serving to keep them firm.
By watching the timing and handling the tortellini gently, you’ll keep the perfect texture and enjoy a delicious, creamy soup every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all the soup ingredients evenly in one place.
- Spoon or spatula – helps you break up the sausage and stir the soup without scratching your pot.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping veggies and herbs safely and easily.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup into bowls neat and simple.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Italian sausage for cooked chicken or turkey to change up the protein and keep it leaner.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers when sautéing veggies for extra texture and flavor.
- Use kale instead of spinach if you prefer a heartier green that holds up well in soup.
- Stir in a handful of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if you like things a little hotter.
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 package (9-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this hearty soup ready takes about 30 minutes. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes cooking the sausage and veggies, 10 minutes simmering the broth and tomatoes, then about 10 minutes cooking the tortellini and adding the cream and spinach. It’s a quick, cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s nicely browned and fully cooked, which usually takes 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced onion, celery, and carrot. Cook everything together for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute so the garlic releases its lovely aroma.
3. Build the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for 10 minutes so the flavors mingle beautifully.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the tortellini directly to the simmering soup. Cook them following the package directions, usually about 3 to 5 minutes, until they’re tender but still hold their shape.
5. Finish with Spinach & Cream:
Stir the chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream into the soup. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup gets creamy and comforting.
6. Season and Serve:
Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as you like. Serve it up in bowls with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. For a perfect pairing, offer some warm crusty bread on the side to enjoy every last bit of the delicious broth!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw frozen tortellini before adding it to the soup to help it cook evenly. Alternatively, add it frozen but increase the cooking time by a couple of minutes and check for tenderness.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to prevent the cream from curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the tortellini from getting mushy, consider storing the soup and tortellini separately if possible, then combine when reheating.
Can I Substitute the Italian Sausage?
Yes! You can swap Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausage for a different twist. Just cook it the same way before adding the other ingredients.
