This creamy tortellini lasagna soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s packed with cheesy tortellini, rich tomato sauce, and lots of herbs to bring out the flavor.
You can’t go wrong with this dish when you’re craving comfort food. Plus, it’s super easy to make. I love serving it with crusty bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This adds a great depth of flavor. If you want a lighter option, turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage work well too!
Cream: Heavy cream gives the soup its rich texture. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you could choose spinach or mushroom tortellini for a twist. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free tortellini at the store.
Crushed Tomatoes: Canned crushed tomatoes work best here for their rich flavor. You can substitute with diced tomatoes or tomato puree if that’s what you have on hand.
How Do I Create a Flavorful Soup Base?
Building a flavorful base is key for any soup! Start by cooking your Italian sausage until it’s browned; this adds a savory depth. Next, sauté the onions until they are soft and translucent but not browned, and then add garlic and herbs to release their aromas.
- Heat olive oil, add sausage, cook until browned (5-7 mins).
- Add onions, sauté until soft (3-4 mins), then stir in garlic and spices.
- This step enhances the flavor of your soup significantly!
How to Make Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 30 minutes total, with 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for busy evenings.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely chopped onion to the pot and cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then mix in the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until everything is aromatic.
3. Add the Liquids:
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 3-5 minutes, until they’re tender and cooked through.
5. Make It Creamy:
Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese has melted and the soup is nice and creamy. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the pot from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and some freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot alongside some crusty bread for dipping.
Enjoy your cozy, creamy tortellini lasagna soup! It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. Make sure to check the package instructions for any specific recommendations!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half, whole milk, or even a dairy-free cream alternative, like coconut cream or cashew cream. Just keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium-low heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it looks too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Just replace the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version!