This Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With cheesy tortellini, hearty tomatoes, and a rich, creamy broth, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
You’ll love how quick it comes together! I always whip up a batch after a long day—it’s like a comforting Italian dinner without all the work. Plus, who doesn’t love soup? 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor to the dish. If you’re out, you can substitute with canola oil or butter. I personally love using olive oil for its taste and health benefits!
Onion: A small onion helps build a base flavor. You can also use shallots or even green onions as an alternative if that’s what you have on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the soup a wonderful aroma. If you’re short on fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder in a pinch; about 1/8 teaspoon per clove should do.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the soup. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works beautifully. Homemade broth will give it an even richer flavor!
Cream Cheese: Heavy cream makes the soup luxuriously creamy. If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even milk, but the richness may decrease a bit.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is ideal, but if you want some variety, try using spinach or meat tortellini instead. You can also use gluten-free tortellini if needed.
How Do I Make the Soup Extra Creamy?
Getting that perfect creamy texture is all in the technique. When you add the heavy cream, ensure the heat is on low to prevent it from curdling. Here’s how to do it:
- After cooking the tortellini, reduce the heat to low before stirring in the heavy cream.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the soup.
- Don’t rush this step! Slow and steady is key to that creamy, velvety consistency everyone loves.
Lastly, always taste before serving! Adjust the seasoning to suit your personal preference. Enjoy your delicious soup! 🍲
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Bread slices, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup can be ready in about 25 minutes—10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking and simmering. It’s quick, simple, and perfect for any day you crave something comforting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Aromatics:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes or until it turns translucent. This is how you build the flavor base for your soup!
2. Add in the Flavors:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. Cook this mixture for another minute until it’s fragrant—your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Build the Broth:
Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and the can of crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will infuse all those flavors beautifully!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once simmering, add the tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3 to 5 minutes, until the pasta is tender. Stir gently to make sure everything cooks evenly!
5. Make It Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low. Now, stir in the cup of heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is melted and combined, creating a rich and creamy texture!
6. Season to Perfection:
Give your soup a taste and season with salt and black pepper to your liking. This is your chance to customize the flavor!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the soup hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for an added touch! Serve with slices of crusty bread if you’d like—perfect for dipping!
This Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with all the comforting flavors of lasagna—ideal for chilly evenings or any time you need a cozy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! If using frozen tortellini, just add them directly to the simmering broth. They may need an extra minute or two to cook, so adjust the time as needed based on the package instructions.
Can I Use Half-and-Half Instead of Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter option. It will still add creaminess, though the soup won’t be as rich. Just be careful not to boil it after adding, as it can curdle.
What If I Have Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion before adding the broth to ensure they’re tender and incorporate well into the soup.
