Tortellini soup has a magical way of making even the gloomiest weeknight feel a little cozier. Honestly, I stumbled onto this recipe after a hectic day when my fridge looked like a game of Tetris gone wrong. Somehow, a lonely pack of three-cheese tortellini and a bunch of kale found each other—and the rest is delicious, soul-warming history.
First, let me say, this isn’t one of those fussy meals. It’s the kind of quick creamy soup you can pull together in under an hour, even if you’re dodging soccer practice or helping with homework (with questionable patience). Also, you don’t need any fancy cooking skills here—just a hungry family and a soup pot big enough for seconds. I’ve made this on chilly fall nights, and it never fails to bring everyone to the table, spoons in hand and noses twitching from the garlicky aroma. Talk about an easy dinner win!
Personal Anecdote
So, picture this: It’s dinnertime, the clock is mocking me, and I’m negotiating with my kids over broccoli. Enter tortellini soup, my not-so-secret weapon for when life feels like a whirlwind. The first time I tried it, I was half-convinced I’d mess it up—my Italian sausage rolled off the counter, and I nearly forgot the kale in the fridge (it happens to the best of us). Yet, even with those little kitchen oopsies, the end result was pure comfort in a bowl.
Then, there are nights when I want something a bit fancier but still fuss-free. On those evenings, I think about the Best Easy Chicken Piccata Meatballs Family Approved Dinner Recipe—another dinner hero in my rotation. However, nothing beats the creamy, dreamy goodness of tortellini soup when the craving hits.
Why This Recipe is Special
First, this soup is a dinner lifesaver, especially when you want something hearty but don’t have all evening to babysit the stove. Also, it’s a total crowd-pleaser, thanks to that cheesy tortellini and the swirl of heavy cream that makes every spoonful feel a little extra. Honestly, even picky eaters can’t resist it. For those who love creamy tortellini lasagna soup, this one is sure to join your list of the best tortellini soup recipes.
Finally, for cozy nights or when you’ve just run out of dinner ideas, this soup stands right up there with my Best Easy Mississippi Chicken Recipe For A Cozy Family Dinner. Whether you’re dreaming of fall soup recipes slow cooker style or just aiming for the best tortellini soup, this bowl checks all the boxes—plus, it’s super forgiving if you’re a little distracted in the kitchen. No judgment here!
Ingredients breakdown
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Italian sausage | 1 pound |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Sweet onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Chicken stock | 4 cups |
| Three-cheese tortellini (refrigerated) | 1 (9-ounce) package |
| Kale, chopped | ½ bunch |
| Heavy cream | ⅓ cup |
Utensils and substitutions
For this tortellini soup, you will need a large stockpot, a wooden spoon, a sharp knife, and a cutting board. A ladle makes serving easier, especially if you love a chunky, hearty bowl. Personally, I always keep a small whisk handy for blending in the flour smoothly, though a fork works in a pinch.
Then, if you want to change things up, try swapping kale for spinach or using turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage for a lighter twist. You could even try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Also, if you’re looking for more comforting soup ideas, you might enjoy this Best Creamy Ranch Chicken Dinner Easy Kid Friendly Family Approved recipe. I always find that soups like this one and Best Easy Mediterranean Flatbread Pizza Quick Healthy Lunch Idea make weeknight meals feel special.
Finally, when working with fresh ingredients, I like to double-check food safety tips on foodsafety.gov—it’s always better to be safe, especially with all those delicious add-ins! This makes your tortellini soup not just tasty, but also safe and reliable for family dinners.
Step-by-step method for a comforting tortellini soup
Step 1
First, heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Then, add the Italian sausage and cook until it browns, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. You might hear a satisfying sizzle—don’t worry if a stray piece pops out!
Step 2
Next, toss in the garlic, diced onion, and Italian seasoning. Stir and sauté until the onions turn translucent and the kitchen fills with a cozy aroma. After that, sprinkle in a bit of flour, whisking for about a minute until it’s lightly golden. This gives your tortellini soup a slightly thick, hearty base.
Step 3
Now, pour in the chicken stock and tomato sauce. Bring everything to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the three-cheese tortellini. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, just until the tortellini are tender. Then, stir in the chopped kale and cook until it wilts. Finally, pour in the heavy cream and a sprinkle of basil. Taste and adjust the seasoning. Your Recipe For Tortellini Soup is ready for the dinner table!
Tips and tricks to make this Dinner recipe shine
For busy nights, prep the veggies ahead or use pre-chopped kale for quicker assembly. Also, try swapping Italian sausage for chicken sausage if you want a lighter touch. If you love hearty dinners, pair this with crusty bread or a simple salad. Sometimes, I sneak in extra veggies like carrots when my family isn’t looking. For more cozy meal ideas, check out the Best Easy Chicken Burrito Bowl For A Healthy Family Dinner and the Best Cozy Merry Me Chicken Pasta For A Hearty Family Dinner. This tortellini soup is perfect for a casual dinner, especially when you want something that feels like a warm hug after a long day. If you’re looking for Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup, just add a bit of mozzarella on top and let it melt in the bowl. Don’t stress if the tortellini are a little overcooked—sometimes, those imperfect bites are the best!
What to serve with this Dinner recipe
When you’re cozying up with a big bowl of tortellini soup, it’s easy to wonder what else you might want alongside. First, a slice of crusty bread or some homemade garlic knots really hits the spot for soaking up all that delicious broth. Next, a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the creamy flavors, especially if you’re making a twist like Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup or even a Sausage Potato Tortellini Soup. If you’re aiming for a heartier spread, why not try pairing it with another crowd-pleaser like Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken? Also, for a hint of Mediterranean flair, Best Easy Mediterranean Chicken Piccata works beautifully. Finally, roasted veggies or even some steamed green beans keep things colorful and fresh.
Looking for more inspiration? Best Tortellini Soup Recipes and The Best Tortellini Soup ideas can help you mix things up for any night of the week.
How to store and reheat
Storing your leftover tortellini soup is simple. Next, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Pop it in the fridge, where it’ll stay tasty for up to three days. Also, if you want to freeze it, keep the tortellini separate from the broth to prevent sogginess—just add cooked pasta when reheating. To warm up, gently reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. However, microwaving works for quick creamy soup cravings, just use short intervals and stir between each. Soup like this is right at home among Crockpot Recipes Soups And Stews, and storing it well means you can enjoy a comforting bowl anytime!
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini in this recipe?
Yes! Frozen tortellini works great in any recipe for tortellini soup. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What vegetables go well in tortellini soup?
Try adding spinach, kale, or zucchini for a fresh twist. Carrots and celery are classic options too.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Absolutely. Swap in a dairy-free cream or skip the creamy base for a lighter take. You’ll still get loads of flavor.
How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
Next, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes. Or, stir in a spoonful of instant mashed potatoes or a splash of cream for extra richness.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Yes, but keep the pasta separate until serving if you’re prepping ahead. This keeps the tortellini from getting mushy.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Finally, warm leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Print
Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Mediterranean Diet Recipes
Description
A creamy and hearty tortellini soup featuring Italian sausage, kale, and a rich blend of cheese tortellini in a flavorful broth. This comforting soup combines savory sausage and fresh greens with a touch of cream for a delightful meal.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium sweet onion, diced
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
4 cups chicken stock
1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
½ bunch kale, chopped
⅓ cup heavy cream
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning, and sauté until the onions become translucent.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute until it turns lightly browned.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and tomato sauce, then bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Stir in the tortellini, cover, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the tortellini is tender.
7. Add the kale and cook until it wilts.
8. Finally, stir in the heavy cream and basil, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Notes
Use turkey sausage for a leaner substitute.
Kale can be replaced with spinach for a milder taste.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the tortellini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
There’s just something magical about sharing a pot of tortellini soup with friends and family. Sometimes, the simplest meals bring us the most comfort—especially on chilly nights. If you’re ever in need of more dinner inspiration, both Easy Dump Go Marry Me Chicken and Mediterranean Chicken Piccata are favorites in my kitchen too. Also, don’t forget, if you’re hunting for more hearty soups or quick creamy soup ideas, our Meal Type board on Pinterest is packed with options. Finally, to keep the kitchen inspiration coming, follow us on Pinterest and join our cozy community. Thanks for cooking with me—here’s to many more warm, imperfect dinners together!