Name: Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground Italian sausage; 2 Tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp garlic powder; 2 Tbsp flour (or 1 Tbsp cornstarch); 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth); 1 28 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 1 28 oz can tomato puree; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 Tbsp honey (or granulated sugar); 2 cups cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free)

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The aroma of Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup wafts through the kitchen, curling around your senses like a warm embrace. Picture rich, savory tomatoes mingling with creamy goodness, punctuated by the delightful pop of cheese tortellini. It’s one of those comforting dishes that immediately conjures memories of chilly evenings spent with loved ones, huddled together as the rain patters against the window. I’ve always cherished moments like these, where laughter fills the air, and the warmth of a good meal draws everyone closer.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

As the seasons change, especially in the fall when the leaves turn crisp, this soup transforms into the ultimate cozy dinner. Whether it’s a hurried weeknight or a casual gathering, this Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is just the ticket to satisfy cravings without any fuss. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking—it’s going to be delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This delicious soup can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of savory sausage and tangy tomatoes creates a flavorsome party in every spoonful.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant red soup dotted with cheese-filled tortellini is as beautiful as it is tasty.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s a family dinner, cozy date night, or sunny afternoon gathering, this soup fits right in.
Diet-Friendly Options: Substitute Italian sausage with shredded chicken or white beans for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb ground Italian sausage: Adds a savory, rich flavor; you can also use shredded chicken or white beans for a lighter option.
2 Tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing; extra-virgin offers more flavor.
1 tsp onion powder: Enhances the soup’s depth of flavor; fresh shallots can be used as a lovely substitute.
½ tsp garlic powder: Brings out aromatic notes; fresh garlic can kick up the flavor even more.
2 Tbsp flour (or 1 Tbsp cornstarch): Acts as a thickening agent; opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth): Provides a hearty base; vegetable broth works for a vegetarian soup.
1 28 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Adds a smoky touch; regular diced tomatoes can be used if needed.
1 28 oz can tomato puree: Creates a smooth texture; crushed tomatoes can also work if you prefer some chunkiness.
1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the soup its Italian flair.
1 Tbsp honey (or granulated sugar): Balances acidity; maple syrup makes for an interesting twist.
2 cups cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen): The star of the show; any pasta shape will do, but tortellini is so fun!
1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to your taste.
½ tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked for an extra kick.
1 cup heavy cream (or coconut milk for dairy-free): Adds creaminess; a splash of almond milk can also lighten it up.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Heat the Oil and Cook the Sausage: In a large soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain the grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot to contribute to the flavor, and transfer the sausage to a plate to rest.

Add Seasonings and Thicken: In the same pot, stir in 1 teaspoon of onion powder and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, allowing the spices to bloom in the leftover fats. Lightly sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour (or your chosen substitute), mixing well to coat everything evenly. This step helps thicken the soup later, bringing richness to each bowl.

Combine the Base Ingredients: Slowly pour 2 cups of beef broth into the pot, stirring to avoid lumps. Next, add in the 28-ounce can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with the 28-ounce can of tomato puree. Stir in 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. This mixture forms the lovely base of your soup and makes your kitchen smell incredible!

Stir in the Cream and Sausage: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring gently to blend everything together. Then, add the previously cooked sausage back into the pot, or opt for your choice of cooked chicken or beans for a different spin. Allow all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Bring to a Boil: Raise the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it as you want it bubbling at a moderate pace, transforming all those ingredients into a harmonious bowl of comfort.

Add the Tortellini: Once you spot those little bubbles breaking the surface, carefully add the 2 cups of cheese tortellini to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 7 to 9 minutes, or until the tortellini are fully cooked and floating. The aroma will become irresistible at this point!

Taste and Serve: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle it into bowls and serve hot, ideally accompanied by crusty garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a delightful meal.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup can be stored at room temperature for up to two hours after cooking. After that, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply place it on the stove over medium heat until it warms through, stirring gently to maintain its creamy consistency. You might notice slight changes in texture after freezing, so a splash of extra cream can freshen it up beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the tortellini; they should be tender yet still have a slight bite to them.
Make sure to drain excess grease after cooking the sausage to keep the soup from being too oily.
For added depth, consider roasting your tomatoes beforehand for a smokier flavor.
If you’re using frozen tortellini, there’s no need to thaw; just add them directly to the simmering soup.
Feel free to throw in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini for a nutrient boost.
This soup makes for fantastic meal prep; just store the tortellini separately if you plan to freeze it.

Creating a batch of this Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is not just about food—it’s about warmth, comfort, and bringing loved ones together. Each time you savor a spoonful, may it remind you of cozy times spent with family and friends, encouraging you to experiment with flavors or ingredients. Don’t be afraid to swap in your favorites or adjust the spices to make it truly yours. This recipe is a canvas waiting for your culinary touch!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the ground Italian sausage for 1½ cups of shredded rotisserie chicken or a cup of white beans. You can also add in sautéed mushrooms or lentils for an additional protein boost while keeping it plant-based.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini will work wonderfully! Just adjust the cooking time since fresh tortellini typically cooks faster—aim for about 3–4 minutes until they float.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can easily modify the spice level by choosing mild or hot Italian sausage, or by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pot. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance for your palate.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider boosting the flavors with a dash of balsamic vinegar or adding fresh basil or parsley at the end for a burst of freshness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving can also elevate the taste experience. Enjoy customizing!