This creamy tortellini lasagna soup is a fun twist on the classic dish! It’s loaded with cheesy tortellini, rich tomato sauce, and hearty veggies, giving you a warm and cozy meal in a bowl.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make—just stir everything together and let the flavors blend. It’s like a big hug in soup form, perfect for chilly nights! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is excellent for sautéing, but you can swap it for butter if you want a richer flavor. Some people even use avocado oil for a different taste and higher smoke point.
Onion: While I recommend a small onion for sweetness, any onion variety will work, including shallots or green onions. Want a milder flavor? Use sweet onions like Vidalia.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds the best flavor, but you could substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder if fresh isn’t available. Be careful not to add too much; it can overpower other flavors.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is perfect here, but you can also use spinach or meat tortellini based on your preference. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free tortellini in stores.
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use milk or a non-dairy creamer. Coconut milk adds a delicious twist, making it dairy-free too.
How Do I Get My Vegetables Perfectly Sautéed?
Sautéing vegetables like onion and garlic can elevate the flavor of your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat the olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Don’t rush this—if the oil isn’t hot enough, you’ll end up steaming instead of sautéing.
- Add the onion first. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent.
- Then add the garlic and any other spices. Cooking garlic for just one minute keeps it fragrant without burning, which can lead to a bitter taste.
Perfectly sautéed veggies add depth and flavor to your soup, making every bite delicious!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara or spaghetti sauce (tomato basil sauce)
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream (for creaminess)
- 1 (9 – 10 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy tortellini lasagna soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes until you’re enjoying a delightful bowl of it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and soft.
2. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of spice), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook this mixture for another minute to allow those yummy flavors to blend and the garlic to become fragrant.
3. Create the Base of the Soup:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, so all the flavors meld together beautifully.
4. Add Creaminess:
Stir in the half-and-half or heavy cream, making it wonderfully rich and creamy.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Now, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the tortellini is tender and cooked thoroughly.
6. Finish the Soup:
Once the tortellini is ready, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and well combined. Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning with a little more salt or pepper, if needed.
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the creamy soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Top it off with extra Parmesan cheese for that perfect finishing touch!
8. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve hot alongside slices of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak in all that delicious broth!
Enjoy a cozy bowl of this delightful creamy tortellini lasagna soup that’s the perfect way to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! You can use frozen tortellini; just increase the cooking time by a few minutes until they are fully cooked and tender. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand!
What Vegetables Can I Add to the Soup?
Feel free to add veggies like spinach, diced zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the onions at the beginning for the best results!
How Long Will Leftover Soup Last in the Fridge?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup and store it without the tortellini. Simply add the tortellini just before serving to keep them from becoming mushy.
