Creamy three-cheese tortellini soup ready in 30 minutes is the kind of cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. From the first spoonful, you get tender cheese-filled tortellini, a rich tomato-cream broth, and fresh spinach that balances everything perfectly. It tastes indulgent, yet it is surprisingly quick and easy to make using simple pantry ingredients.
This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
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Why You’ll Love This Three-Cheese Tortellini Soup
This tortellini soup has everything home cooks love.
It is fast. You can have a full pot of rich, satisfying soup on the table in about 30 minutes from start to finish.
It is one-pot friendly. Everything comes together in a single pot, which means easy cleanup and maximum flavor.
It is creamy without being heavy. The combination of tomatoes and cream creates a smooth, velvety broth that feels indulgent but still balanced.
It is also incredibly versatile. You can add protein, swap greens, or adjust the richness to suit your family’s preferences.
Ingredients for Three-Cheese Tortellini Soup
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Liquids
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Add-Ins
- 1 package (18 to 20 ounces) refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
Refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly and has the best texture for this soup, but frozen tortellini also works. If using frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Heavy cream gives the soup its signature richness. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk. The soup will still be creamy but slightly thinner.
Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the soup. You can substitute kale or Swiss chard, but allow a few extra minutes for softer greens.
This recipe contains no alcohol. If similar versions use wine, simply replace it with extra broth and a small squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
There is no pork required. If sausage is suggested elsewhere, cooked chicken, turkey sausage, or white beans are great alternatives.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Saute the Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 3: Stir in the Cream
Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Mix until the broth is smooth and evenly combined.
Step 4: Cook the Tortellini
Add the tortellini to the pot and simmer according to package directions, usually 5 to 7 minutes, until tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until wilted. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the soup from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy while hot.
Pro Tips for Success
- Stir the soup gently after adding tortellini to prevent sticking
- Keep the heat low after adding cream to avoid curdling
- Season gradually and taste at the end for best balance
- Use high-quality tortellini for the best flavor
- Let the soup rest briefly to thicken naturally
Flavor Variations
- Add cooked shredded chicken for extra protein
- Stir in red pepper flakes for gentle heat
- Add mushrooms with the onions for more depth
- Finish with grated Parmesan for extra richness
- Use basil instead of spinach for a fresh twist
Serving Suggestions
This creamy three-cheese tortellini soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic knots, or warm breadsticks.
For a complete meal, serve it with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini will continue to absorb liquid, so the soup may thicken over time. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
Freezing is possible, but keep in mind that pasta can soften after thawing. If freezing, store for up to 2 months and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Creamy Three-Cheese Tortellini Soup Ready in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy three-cheese tortellini soup ready in 30 minutes is a cozy, comforting meal made with tender cheese-filled tortellini, a rich tomato-cream broth, and fresh spinach for perfect balance.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 package (18 to 20 ounces) refrigerated three-cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning and cook until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and broth and stir to combine.
- Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook briefly.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Add the tortellini and simmer until tender.
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat, rest briefly, and serve warm.
Notes
Keep heat gentle after adding cream to maintain a smooth texture. Stir occasionally so tortellini does not stick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 470 |
| Protein | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 820mg |
FAQ About Three-Cheese Tortellini Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Everything else is already vegetarian-friendly.
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Absolutely. Frozen tortellini works well, just allow a few extra minutes of cooking time.
How do I keep the cream from curdling?
Lower the heat before adding cream and avoid boiling the soup afterward. Gentle heat keeps the broth smooth.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
You can, but the tortellini will soften as it sits. For best results, add the tortellini just before serving.
How do I thicken the soup?
The soup thickens naturally as it rests. You can also simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes if needed.
Final Thoughts
Creamy three-cheese tortellini soup ready in 30 minutes is the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and flavor. It is rich without being overwhelming, simple yet satisfying, and easy enough to make any night of the week. Once you try it, this soup is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.