Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup – Cozy One-Pot Comfort Recipe
Total Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
There’s something magical about a pot of creamy soup simmering on the stove, especially when the air turns cool and you’re craving something warm and comforting. Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup is exactly that kind of meal — rich, velvety broth filled with tender cheese tortellini, vibrant vegetables, and savory herbs. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
This cozy one-pot recipe combines the heartiness of pasta with the soothing comfort of creamy soup. The broth is silky and flavorful, infused with garlic, Italian herbs, and a touch of cream that adds luxurious texture without feeling overly heavy. Plump tortellini float among colorful carrots and spinach, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is satisfying.
Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep, this soup comes together quickly and requires minimal cleanup. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can keep it vegetarian or add sausage or chicken for extra protein. At approximately 420–500 calories per serving, it’s filling, balanced, and wonderfully comforting.
Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to build deep flavor and creamy texture in one pot.
Cheese Tortellini (20 oz refrigerated) – The heart of the soup. Tender pasta pockets filled with creamy cheese add richness and body.
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing and building flavor at the base.
Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced) – Adds natural sweetness and depth.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings aromatic warmth and savory balance.
Carrots (2 medium, sliced) – Provide subtle sweetness and color contrast.
Celery (2 stalks, chopped) – Adds freshness and a classic soup foundation.
Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon) – Infuses the broth with herbaceous notes.
Dried Basil (½ teaspoon) – Enhances the Italian flavor profile.
Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste) – Brings all flavors together.
Black Pepper (½ teaspoon) – Adds mild heat and complexity.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional) – Provides gentle warmth.
Chicken Broth or Vegetable Broth (6 cups) – Forms the savory base of the soup.
Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates the luxurious creamy texture.
Crushed Tomatoes (1 cup) – Adds body and slight tang to balance the cream.
Fresh Baby Spinach (2 cups) – Adds color, nutrients, and freshness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup) – Enhances richness and deepens flavor.
Cooked Italian Sausage (1 cup, optional) – Adds protein and bold savory flavor.
Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped) – Brightens and finishes the dish.
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup
Step 1: Build the Flavor Base
In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant. The vegetables should become slightly translucent and aromatic.
Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Stir in Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to bloom the spices in the oil.
Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and allow the soup to simmer for 8–10 minutes so the flavors meld and the vegetables become tender.
If using cooked Italian sausage, stir it in at this stage.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes. The tortellini will float to the top when tender.
Be careful not to overcook — you want them soft but still slightly firm.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. The broth will immediately turn silky and slightly golden. Allow it to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Finish
Fold in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup is best served hot, straight from the pot into deep bowls that hold all that luscious broth. For a rustic presentation, ladle the soup into wide ceramic bowls and finish with a generous dusting of Parmesan and cracked black pepper. A drizzle of olive oil over the top adds an elegant touch while enhancing the flavor.
Serve alongside crusty artisan bread for dipping — the creamy broth practically begs to be soaked up. Garlic bread or warm focaccia also pair beautifully, turning this simple soup into a satisfying, complete meal. For a lighter pairing, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
If you’re entertaining, consider offering a toppings bar with extra cheese, red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or even crispy pancetta. For family dinners, serve in oversized mugs for an ultra-cozy feel on chilly nights.
This soup also works wonderfully as a starter for an Italian-inspired dinner spread. Pair it with baked pasta or roasted vegetables for a comforting feast.
Storage + Meal Prep
Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup stores well but requires a few simple tips to maintain texture. Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Because tortellini absorbs liquid over time, the soup may thicken significantly in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of broth, milk, or water to loosen the consistency. Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream from separating.
Freezing is possible, but keep in mind that cream-based soups may change texture slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the broth base without the tortellini and cream, then add fresh tortellini and cream when reheating.
For meal prep, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it to individual servings as needed. This keeps the pasta from becoming too soft over time.
Adding fresh spinach and herbs after reheating helps restore the vibrant flavor and color of the dish.
Conclusion
Creamy Tortellini Pasta Soup is the definition of cozy comfort in a bowl. It’s creamy without being heavy, hearty without being complicated, and flavorful without requiring hours in the kitchen. One pot, simple ingredients, and less than 40 minutes stand between you and a deeply satisfying meal.
Whether you’re making it for a quiet weeknight dinner, prepping lunches for the week, or serving guests on a chilly evening, this soup delivers warmth and comfort every single time. Don’t be afraid to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins — that’s part of the joy of home cooking. Once you try it, it just might become your new go-to comfort recipe.
