Ingredients
1 tablespoon oil Provides a neutral base for sautéing aromatics and adds a light sheen to the soup for better flavor infusion
1 tablespoon butter Enhances richness and helps thicken the broth while adding a creamy mouthfeel to the tortellini soup
1 diced onion Builds a savory foundation by releasing natural sugars when sautéed, which deepens the overall taste of the creamy soup
2 cloves minced garlic Adds aromatic depth and a pungent kick that complements the fresh herbs in this cheesy tortellini chowder
Pinch of red pepper flakes (to taste) Introduces a subtle heat that can be adjusted, enhancing the soup’s flavor profile without overwhelming it
1/4 cup all-purpose flour Acts as a thickener to create the creamy texture, helping the broth coat the tortellini perfectly
3 cups vegetable broth Forms the liquid base, providing moisture and a hearty, nutritious element to the Creamy Tortellini Soup
14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes Contributes acidity and freshness, adding body and a burst of flavor to the rich broth
8 ounces tomato sauce Boosts the soup’s richness and helps create a smooth, cohesive sauce that ties everything together
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Infuses classic herbaceous notes, enhancing the Mediterranean vibe of this tortellini soup
1 teaspoon dried basil Adds earthy flavor and complements the fresh basil, making the soup taste vibrant and layered
Salt and pepper (to taste) Balances the flavors and seasons the dish, ensuring the Creamy Tortellini Soup is perfectly adjusted
8 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini Serves as the star ingredient, offering tender, cheesy bites that make this creamy pasta soup satisfying and quick-cooking
1 1/2 cups fresh packed spinach leaves Provides nutrients and a fresh, wilted texture that adds color and health benefits to the soup
1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half Creates the creamy element, enriching the broth and making the soup indulgent yet comforting
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil Adds a bright, aromatic finish that elevates the flavor of this cheesy tortellini chowder
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese Melts into the soup for a salty, nutty taste and extra creaminess, enhancing the overall experience
Instructions
1-First Step: Sauté the Base In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Add 1 diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until it softens. This step, at around 350°F on your stove, develops the foundational flavors for the Creamy Tortellini Soup, so keep the heat even to avoid burning.
2-Second Step: Add Aromatics and Thickener Stir in 2 cloves minced garlic and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, then cook for another minute on medium heat. This helps create a roux that thickens the broth without lumps, reaching about 350°F. For gluten-free adaptations, swap the flour with a cornstarch slurry to maintain the creamy texture of your tortellini soup.
3-Third Step: Build the Broth Add 3 cups vegetable broth, 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, 8 ounces tomato sauce, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, aiming for 180 190°F, then adjust seasonings as needed. This simmering stage, lasting about 5 minutes, melds the flavors for a rich, comforting Creamy Tortellini Soup use low-sodium broth for lower-calorie versions.
4-Fourth Step: Cook the Tortellini Once boiling, add 8 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini and cook until tender, which takes about 5 7 minutes on a gentle simmer at medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, ensuring the pasta absorbs the creamy broth. For vegan swaps, use plant-based tortellini here to keep the cheesy tortellini chowder dairy-free while preserving its heartiness.
5-Fifth Step: Finish and Serve Remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups fresh packed spinach leaves, 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, and 1/2 cup heavy cream or half and half. Finally, add 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil and serve warm. This last step, done off the heat, prevents curdling temper the cream first for reheating tips to maintain the soup’s creamy consistency. Your Creamy Tortellini Soup is now ready, garnished and perfect for any meal.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥫 Use refrigerated tortellini for faster cooking and better taste.
🥄 For a heartier meal, add cooked ground sausage.
🥕 Add extra vegetables like celery, carrot, or kale when sautéing onions for more nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 472
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 1490mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0.1g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 74mg
