Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is a rich, comforting one-pot meal filled with cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and garlic simmered in a creamy Parmesan broth. Inspired by classic Tuscan flavors, this cozy soup delivers bold Italian comfort with minimal effort. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty, creamy, and restaurant-quality.
Key Takeaways
• One-pot creamy comfort soup
• Packed with Italian-inspired flavors
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Hearty and family-friendly meal
• Perfect balance of creamy and savory
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup combines the richness of a creamy pasta dish with the warmth of a comforting soup. Cheese tortellini adds satisfying texture, sausage brings deep flavor, and sun-dried tomatoes provide a tangy sweetness that balances the creamy broth beautifully. It’s easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
1 small yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
4 cups chicken broth
1 (9–12 ounce) package cheese tortellini (refrigerated or frozen)
1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)
2 cups fresh spinach
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Ladle
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it into crumbles until browned. - Cook aromatics
Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add broth
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. - Cook tortellini
Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes. - Add sun-dried tomatoes
Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and simmer briefly to blend flavors. - Make it creamy
Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. - Add spinach
Stir in fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted. - Adjust seasoning and serve
Taste and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with herbs if desired.
Tips & Variations
Use turkey sausage for a lighter version.
Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
Swap spinach with kale if preferred.
Add extra broth when reheating since tortellini absorb liquid.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread, focaccia, or a simple Caesar salad for a complete Italian-style dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with extra broth or cream if thickened.
Not ideal for freezing due to dairy and pasta texture.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories: 520 per serving
Protein: 24g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 3g
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, simply cook a few minutes longer according to package instructions.
Is the soup spicy?
Only mildly spicy if using hot sausage or red pepper flakes.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, omit sausage and use vegetable broth.
Why does the soup thicken later?
Tortellini absorb liquid as it sits; add broth when reheating.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture cook tortellini fresh when possible.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup is the perfect blend of hearty pasta comfort and rich Italian flavor. With savory sausage, creamy Parmesan broth, and tender tortellini, this easy one-pot recipe delivers cozy, satisfying comfort in every spoonful.