Hearty Chicken Tortellini Soup a Hug in a Bowl

Q: I'm watching my sodium intake. How can I make this tortellini soup healthier?

Great question! Start by using low-sodium chicken broth – it makes a huge difference. You can also rinse the canned diced tomatoes before adding them. Be mindful of the salt content in your cheese tortellini; some brands are saltier than others. Taste as you go and season carefully with salt and pepper. Fresh herbs are your friend here, adding loads of flavour without the sodium!

Hearty Tortellini Soup Recipe A Comfort Food Hug

By Lucas BennettSeptember 14, 2025

5.00 (5 Ratings)

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Ever crave a meal that feels like a warm hug? This tortellini soup is your answer. It’s packed with flavour and super easy to make.

Get ready for a taste of Italy in a bowl.

Brief Overview

This isn't just any soup, it's a hug in a bowl. It is a twist on classic Italian soup recipes .

This easy tortellini soup is ready in under an hour. It feeds six hungry souls.

Main Benefits

The best part? This cheese tortellini soup is pure comfort. It’s a great way to sneak in some veggies too. Perfect for a chilly night or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ready to dive into a bowl of happiness? This chicken tortellini soup recipe is about to become your new favourite.

Honestly, it's a weeknight winner, it's also a flavour bomb. It is sure to satisfy those comfort food cravings.

What Makes This Tortellini Soup Special?

Think of this soup as your blank canvas. Feel free to play around with the tortellini soup ingredients . Use what you've got! This is my go to comfort food soup .

It is the best way to warm up during the cold days. I often add a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.

Time to Gather Your Ingredients!

Let's get started with the essential ingredients for this soup. Grab your olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery. You’ll also need garlic, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and thyme.

Don’t forget the star of the show: cheese tortellini .

Variations on this Great Soup

Want to mix it up? There are so many tortellini soup variations you can try. Add a splash of cream for a richer soup.

Or use a different type of protein like sausage or beef. You can even make a vegetarian tortellini soup . Using vegetable broth and adding beans for protein.

Ingredients & Equipment for Killer Tortellini Soup

Alright, let's dive into the heart of this easy tortellini soup the ingredients! Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. You know I wouldn't hit you with anything too fancy.

This hearty chicken tortellini soup recipe is about simple comfort, plain and simple.

Main Ingredients for the Best Tortellini Soup Ever

Here's what you'll need to whip up this homemade tortellini soup , measured like a pro (both ways, innit?).

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon ( 15 ml ). Extra virgin is always a shout.
Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced (about 1 cup or 150g ). Go for one that feels firm.
Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced (about 1 cup or 120g ).
Celery: 2 stalks, diced (about ½ cup or 80g ).
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced (about 2 teaspoons or 6g ). Fresh is best, innit?.
Chicken Broth: 8 cups ( 1.9 liters ). Low sodium is a good shout so you can control the salt yourself.
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ).
Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ).
Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon ( 1 ml ) - optional, if you like a bit of a kick.
Cooked Chicken: 1 pound (about 4 cups or 450g ), shredded or cubed. Rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver.
Cheese Tortellini: 9 ounces ( 255g ), fresh or frozen cheese tortellini soup .
Diced Tomatoes: 1 can ( 14.5 ounce or 410g ), undrained.
Fresh Spinach: ½ cup ( 25g ), chopped. Frozen works too in a pinch for tortellini soup with spinach .
Salt and Pepper: To taste, obviously.

Honestly, the quality of your broth makes a huge difference in this Italian soup recipe . So, if you can, go for something decent.

Seasoning and Aromatic Secrets

Okay, so this is where the magic happens. Don't skimp on the seasoning! It's what makes tortellini soup sing.

The Italian Mix: Italian seasoning and thyme are essential for that classic flavour.
Aromatic Base: Garlic is key for depth.
Substitutions: No Italian seasoning? Use oregano and basil.

I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of warmth but that's your shout.

Equipment - No Fancy Stuff Needed!

Right, no need for fancy gadgets here for this quick soup recipe . This is about keeping it simple.

Large Pot: A big pot or Dutch oven is essential.
Cutting Board & Knife: For chopping those veggies.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For getting those measurements spot on.
Ladle: For serving up this comfort food soup .

Seriously, if you don't have a Dutch oven, just use a big pot. Don't stress it!

Cooking Up a Storm: My Go-To Tortellini Soup

Fancy a hug in a bowl? Then get ready for my hearty chicken tortellini soup . Honestly, this isn't just any easy tortellini soup .

I've tweaked and perfected it over the years. It's a quick, warming, and oh-so-satisfying meal. Think of it as a quick trip to Italy, without the jet lag.

Prep Like a Pro: Getting Your Ducks in a Row

Good prep is key, trust me. First, dice 1 medium yellow onion, 2 medium carrots, and 2 celery stalks. Mince 2 cloves of garlic.

Shred or cube 1 pound of cooked chicken. Open a can of diced tomatoes. Chop ½ cup of fresh spinach.

Got it? Now, breathe. Having everything ready means cooking is a breeze. This is the essential mise en place! Time saving tip: Do your chopping while the kettle boils.

Making Magic: step-by-step Tortellini Soup

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot.
Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5- 7 minutes , until softened.
Add garlic. Cook for another 60 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in 8 cups of chicken broth . Add 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning , ½ teaspoon of dried thyme , and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you're feeling brave). Bring to a simmer.
Stir in 1 pound of cooked chicken and one 14.5 ounce can of diced tomatoes. Simmer again.
Add 9 ounces of fresh or frozen cheese tortellini. Cook according to the package, usually 3- 5 minutes , until they float.
Stir in ½ cup of fresh spinach. Cook until wilted, around 1 minute .
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Then, dive in!

Tortellini Soup: Pro Tips from Yours Truly

Don't overcook the tortellini, alright? Nobody likes mushy pasta. A good quality chicken broth makes all the difference. If you're feeling fancy, try browning the chicken before adding the broth.

It adds a depth of flavour. Also, taste as you go! It's your homemade tortellini soup , so make it perfect for you.

A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can really brighten up the dish.

Common mistake alert: not seasoning enough. Season aggressively! Looking for tortellini soup variations ? Try adding some cannellini beans. They are great for a veggie boost.

Want something creamy? Stir in a splash of cream. This is Italian soup recipes with my personal twist.

Honestly, this chicken tortellini soup recipe is my ultimate comfort food soup . It’s quick. It's easy. And it's guaranteed to warm you up on a chilly day.

Recipe Notes: Your Tortellini Soup Survival Guide

Alright, let's talk about nailing this easy tortellini soup . Honestly, this recipe is super forgiving. It is the best comfort food soup .

But a few pointers can really elevate your chicken tortellini soup recipe game. Ready?

Plating Like a Pro & Perfect Pairings

Presentation matters, right? Ladle your cheese tortellini soup into a nice bowl. A swirl of cream and some fresh parsley looks posh.

Serve it with crusty bread for dunking. A simple side salad cuts through the richness. A glass of chilled white wine? Chef's kiss.

Keeping it Fresh: Storage Secrets

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Let the soup cool completely. Then stash it in an airtight container. It will be good in the fridge for up to 3 days .

Freezing is an option too. Just be warned, the tortellini might get a bit soft. Reheat gently on the stove.

Microwaving works in a pinch, you know?

Tortellini Soup Variations : Your Way

Want to mix it up? Go veggie! Use vegetable broth and skip the chicken. Add some cannellini beans for protein.

Feeling spicy? Up the red pepper flakes. Or add a dash of hot sauce. For a lighter version, try it as tortellini soup with spinach .

Seasonal swaps are fab. In the winter, add butternut squash. In the spring, try asparagus. The possibilities are endless.

Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bowl

This homemade tortellini soup is more than just tasty. It's got protein from the chicken. Carbs from the pasta. Vitamins from the veggies.

It is a balanced meal. Plus, it’s warm and comforting. Perfect for a chilly evening.

Don't worry about getting every step perfect. Cooking should be fun! This quick soup recipe is all about enjoying the process. Now go and make some amazing soup! You've got this.

I swear, this Italian soup recipe is like a hug in a bowl. You'll love it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make tortellini soup ahead of time? Will the tortellini get soggy?

You can definitely make the soup base ahead of time! Just hold off on adding the tortellini and spinach until right before serving. Store the soup base in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you're ready to eat, bring the soup to a simmer, then add the tortellini and spinach.

This will prevent the tortellini from getting all mushy, like a sad excuse for pasta.

What's the best way to store leftover tortellini soup?

Allow the tortellini soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days, but the tortellini will continue to absorb liquid and may become softer. You can also freeze the soup base (without the tortellini), for up to 2 months.

Thaw completely before reheating and adding freshly cooked tortellini.

I'm watching my sodium intake. How can I make this tortellini soup healthier?

Great question! Start by using low-sodium chicken broth it makes a huge difference. You can also rinse the canned diced tomatoes before adding them. Be mindful of the salt content in your cheese tortellini; some brands are saltier than others. Taste as you go and season carefully with salt and pepper.

Fresh herbs are your friend here, adding loads of flavour without the sodium!

Can I use frozen tortellini in this soup, or does it have to be fresh?

Absolutely, you can use frozen tortellini! In fact, it's often more convenient. Just add the frozen tortellini directly to the simmering soup and cook according to the package directions. Keep in mind that frozen tortellini may take a minute or two longer to cook than fresh, so keep an eye on them.

Avoid thawing the tortellini beforehand, as this can make them stick together.

What other veggies can I add to this tortellini soup recipe?

Feel free to get creative with your veggies! Diced zucchini, yellow squash, bell peppers, and mushrooms would all be delicious additions. You could also add some chopped kale or Swiss chard along with the spinach for extra nutrients.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, adding heartier vegetables earlier in the process so they have time to soften.

My tortellini soup is a bit bland. How can I boost the flavour?

Don't fret, that's an easy fix! First, make sure you've seasoned the soup well with salt and pepper taste as you go. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavours.

For extra oomph, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a Parmesan cheese rind while the soup simmers. A dollop of pesto at the end also works wonders!