Italian Tortellini Soup Recipe: How to Make Tortellini Soup
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Feb 14, 2026 • 2 min read
Tortellini is among the greatest comfort foods in the history of Italian cuisine. This creamy tortellini soup is easily customizable and comes together quickly for the perfect stovetop weeknight dinner.
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What Is Tortellini Soup?
Originally from the Italian region of Emilia, tortellini is a stuffed pasta shaped into rings. Tortellini are traditionally stuffed with meat and served in broth (Italian brodo). Tortellini soup is made by stirring fresh, cheesy tortellini into a warm, creamy soup with vegetables like carrots, fresh spinach, zucchini, and onions. You can make tortellini soup vegetarian, or add a protein like hot Italian sausage, meatballs, or shredded chicken for a heartier meal. Try it with some garlic bread for dipping in the creamy broth.
4 Tips for Making Tortellini Soup
Tortellini soup is easy to prepare and comes together quickly with these simple tips:
- 1. Add the tortellini last. Fresh tortellini takes very little time to cook, so add it right before serving to ensure the tortellini does not overcook and get mushy.
- 2. Use extra broth. The tortellini will absorb some of the broth while cooking, so add more than usual to keep the soup from thickening too much.
- 3. Mix it up. Try adding some canned diced tomatoes or artichoke hearts to make the tortellini soup for added flavor.
- 4. Make it in a slow cooker. Tortellini soup can be made hands-off in a slow cooker. Try replacing fresh tortellini with dried to avoid overcooking.
Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
makes
prep time
5 mintotal time
30 mincook time
25 minIngredients
- 1
Melt butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- 2
Add the onions, zucchini, and carrots and sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and veggies are tender, 7–10 minutes.
- 3
Add the garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 4
Add Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper, and flour. Cook, stirring frequently, until flour is lightly browned and smells nutty, 1–2 minutes.
- 5
Gradually whisk in broth and bring to a boil.
- 6
Add tortellini and cook until al dente, 4–5 minutes.
- 7
Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in spinach and cream until spinach is wilted, about 1 minute. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 8
Divide soup between serving bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- 9
Garnish with basil leaves and red pepper flakes, if using. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
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