Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup is a cozy bowl filled with tender cheese tortellini, a rich and creamy broth, and a good handful of fresh spinach. It’s got that lovely garlicky flavor that warms you from the inside out, with sun-dried tomatoes adding a nice tangy touch. This soup feels like a hug in a bowl with all those smooth, comforting textures and delicious flavors blended perfectly together.
Whenever I make this soup, I love how quickly it comes together but tastes like I spent hours in the kitchen. The garlic and sun-dried tomatoes give it such a vibrant flavor that really wakes up the creamy broth without feeling heavy. I like to add plenty of fresh spinach at the end, so it gives a little pop of color and a bit of freshness to every bite.
My favorite way to serve this soup is with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s an easy meal that feels special enough for a chilly evening when you want something simple but still really satisfying. I’ve shared it with friends and family, and everyone always asks for seconds! This soup is a perfect mix of comfort and flavor that just hits the spot every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh or refrigerated cheese tortellini give this soup its heartiness. If you can’t find tortellini, ravioli or gnocchi work well as substitutes.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely tang and depth. If unavailable, you can use chopped roasted red peppers or omit them for a milder flavor.
Heavy Cream: It makes the soup rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the taste will be less creamy.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. You can swap in kale or swiss chard if you prefer a more robust green.
Parmesan Cheese: This boosts savory flavor. Use Pecorino Romano or Asiago if you want a sharper taste.
How Can I Make the Garlic and Sun-Dried Tomatoes Really Pop?
Start by gently sautéing the onions until soft. This creates a sweet base. Add garlic and sun-dried tomatoes next, cooking just until they smell fragrant but don’t burn.
- Use medium heat to avoid bitterness from garlic burning.
- Stir often to blend flavors well with the oil and onions.
- This step lifts the soup’s overall flavor, making it more vibrant before you add broth.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot – perfect for sautéing ingredients and simmering the soup all in one place.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – helps you chop onions, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes easily.
- Cutting board – a safe surface for all your chopping tasks.
- Ladle – makes serving hot soup into bowls neat and easy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein and heartiness.
- Swap spinach for kale or swiss chard for a different leafy green texture and taste.
- Stir in a handful of sun-dried tomato pesto for stronger tomato flavor.
- Mix in fresh basil or thyme instead of dried herbs for a brighter herb taste.
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed, drained)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Croutons or toasted bread cubes for serving
Time Needed
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, making it ready in roughly 25 minutes. It’s a quick recipe that’s perfect for busy days when you want something comforting and homemade.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Then reduce the heat to a simmer to let the flavors blend.
3. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini straight into the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions—usually around 3-5 minutes—until the tortellini float to the surface and are tender.
4. Finish with Cream, Spinach, and Cheese:
Lower the heat, stir in the heavy cream, and warm the soup without boiling. Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook just until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, with optional croutons or toasted bread cubes on the side for dipping.
This creamy Tuscan garlic tortellini soup is perfect to cozy up with on a chilly day—it’s simple, flavorful, and so satisfying!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Yes! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the frozen tortellini cook through. No need to thaw—add them directly to the simmering broth.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point of adding the cream and spinach, then cool and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat, then stir in the cream and spinach just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the soup if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. A light side salad also complements it nicely for a complete meal.
