Name: Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 package (9 ounces) cheese tortellini; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

This Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup is the epitome of comfort in a bowl. Silky tomato broth meets cheesy tortellini in a luscious blend that warms the soul and pleases every palate. With a balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes, it brings bold Italian flavors to your table without needing to simmer all day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or curling up for a cozy night in, this soup delivers both simplicity and satisfaction.

The best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes and is made with pantry-friendly ingredients. It’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner and just as delightful for a weekend treat. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s as hearty as it is indulgent.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you start, make sure your kitchen is equipped with the right tools to ensure a smooth cooking process:

Large Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: This allows for even heat distribution, preventing the tomato base from burning and helping meld all the flavors perfectly.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the soup and ensuring the cheese doesn’t stick to the bottom.
Ladle: Helpful for serving the soup into bowls without spills.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters, especially with seasonings and broth.
Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping aromatics like garlic or any optional veggies you may want to add.

Having these tools ready before you begin means you can focus on layering flavor and cooking with ease.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Every ingredient in this soup plays an important role in building richness, creaminess, and that comforting tomato-cheese harmony:

Cheese Tortellini: The star of the soup, providing a satisfying cheesy bite in every spoonful.
Crushed Tomatoes: Offers depth, acidity, and a classic tomato base that’s both bright and savory.

Tomato Paste: Enhances the richness of the broth and gives an umami boost.
Garlic: Essential for building a fragrant foundation and adding depth.
Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and body to the soup base.

Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Forms the main liquid of the soup, adding flavor and body.
Heavy Cream: Brings a luscious, velvety texture and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Olive Oil: Used to sauté aromatics and enhance flavor.

Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs that boosts overall aroma and flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Key for seasoning and balancing all components.
Parmesan Cheese (for topping): Finishing touch of salty, nutty goodness that elevates each bowl.

Fresh Basil or Parsley (optional): For a fresh, herbal lift right before serving.

How To Make the Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Build the Tomato Base

Add tomato paste and stir to coat the onions and garlic. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 3: Add the Tortellini

Drop in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 5-7 minutes. The tortellini should be tender but not overcooked.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to warm through.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup

This soup is best served piping hot, straight from the pot into generous bowls. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves on top add both flavor and visual appeal. Pair it with a thick slice of crusty bread or warm garlic knots for the ultimate cozy dinner.

If you’re making it ahead or have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over the stove to avoid overcooking the tortellini. For longer storage, freeze without the tortellini and add fresh pasta when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the tortellini from getting too soft?

Only add the tortellini toward the end of cooking, and watch the timing closely. Slightly undercooking it can help retain texture when reheating.

Can I use frozen tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen tortellini works beautifully! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and make sure the tortellini is cheese-only with no meat filling.

Can I add vegetables to this soup?

Definitely. Spinach, kale, zucchini, or even bell peppers make excellent additions. Add them with the tortellini so they stay vibrant.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Use a plant-based cream and dairy-free tortellini. Coconut milk can be used, but it will give a slightly different flavor profile.

Can I make it spicier?

Of course! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic for a gentle heat kick.

Want More Soup Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup, check out more delicious and creative soup recipes from my kitchen:

Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup for a bold, meaty version.
Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup if you’re craving something plant-based and filling.
Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup to enjoy your favorite pasta dish in soup form.

Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for a simple yet cozy bowl on cold nights.
Moroccan Sweet Potato Soup when you want a spiced, earthy change.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest soup board so you can come back to it any time: Follow me here.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add some greens or extra spice? Try a different kind of tortellini?

I love hearing your creative takes and tweaks. Don’t hesitate to ask questions too—we’re all in this cozy kitchen together.

Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting bowl of goodness. With plump cheese-filled tortellini floating in a velvety tomato broth and topped with Parmesan, it’s the perfect quick meal for chilly nights or busy weekdays.