This Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! With tender tortellini, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s a big hug in soup form.
Who would have thought lasagna could be a soup? It’s like eating your favorite pasta dish while snuggled under a blanket. Perfect for chilly nights! 😄
I love how quickly this soup comes together—just mix, simmer, and enjoy! Serve it with some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ll be in happy food paradise!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the flavor base for the soup. You can also use ground beef or turkey if you prefer a different meat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage or mushrooms instead!
Cheese Tortellini: Fresh refrigerated tortellini works best, but frozen tortellini is a good substitute if fresh isn’t available. You can also use other pasta types like mini shells or bowtie pasta, but the cooking time may vary.
Chicken Broth: If you’re making this dish vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great swap. Homemade broth adds extra flavor, but store-bought is super convenient!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk can add a nice creaminess, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Italian Sausage?
Cooking the sausage well impacts the flavor of your soup significantly. Start by heating your pot over medium heat before adding the olive oil and sausage.
- Break the sausage apart with a spoon while it cooks. This helps it brown evenly.
- Cook until it’s no longer pink inside, approximately 5 minutes. This ensures it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Don’t rush—taking your time allows the sausage to develop nice flavors that carry throughout the soup.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Tortellini is Cooked Perfectly?
Timing is key! To get perfectly tender tortellini that doesn’t turn mushy, follow these steps:
- After adding the tortellini to the broth, set a timer based on the package instructions, which is usually around 3-5 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Once cooked, they should be tender but firm (al dente). They will continue cooking a bit once you add the cream!
With these insights, you’ll be set to make a delicious and comforting Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup! Enjoy your cooking!
Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add in the Italian sausage. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want to brown it completely, which should take about 5 minutes. That savory flavor from the sausage is key!
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion and let it cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Following the onion, add the minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you enjoy a bit of heat). Cook for about 1 more minute until everything smells amazing!
3. Add Broth and Marinara
Pour the chicken broth and marinara sauce into the pot. Stir it all together to combine. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
4. Cook the Tortellini
When the time is up, carefully add the cheese tortellini to the soup. Follow the package instructions for cooking—usually it’s around 3-5 minutes until they’re tender. Keep stirring to make sure they don’t stick!
5. Creamy Finish
Once the tortellini is ready, lower the heat again and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with a little salt and black pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes until it’s heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Now it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese and some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy your hearty meal!
This Creamy Tortellini Lasagna Soup is not just filling but brings the joy of a classic lasagna in a warm, cozy bowl. Perfect for any occasion! Happy cooking!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is delicious, you can substitute it with other pasta types like mini shells or bowtie pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooking.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the Italian sausage and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added texture and protein, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or lentils!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance! Just cook the sausage and vegetables, then add the broth and marinara. When you’re ready to serve, cook the tortellini and stir in the cream and cheese. This way, you’ll have a fresh-tasting meal in no time!