Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup Recipe

Hearty Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

Whipping up a creamy tuscan garlic tortellini soup promises pure comfort on chilly evenings.

Aromatic herbs and rich ingredients dance together in this hearty bowl.

Kitchens everywhere come alive with the delightful scent of simmering goodness.

Cheese-filled tortellini nestle perfectly among tender vegetables and silky broth.

garlic brings depth and warmth to every spoonful of this Italian-inspired creation.

Hungry souls will find instant satisfaction in this simple yet luxurious recipe.

Jump in and savor each delectable bite of pure culinary magic.

FAQs

  • What makes Tuscan kale different from regular kale?

Tuscan kale, also known as lacinato or dinosaur kale, has darker, longer, and flatter leaves with a bumpy texture. It’s more tender and has a slightly sweeter, earthier flavor compared to curly kale, making it perfect for soups and Italian-inspired dishes.

  • Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the rich flavor profile of the soup.

  • Is this soup freezer-friendly?

While you can freeze the soup, the tortellini and cream might change texture when thawed. For best results, freeze the base soup without tortellini and cream, then add these ingredients fresh when reheating.

  • How can I enhance the soup's protein content?

Add white beans, cooked chicken, or additional Italian sausage. You can also sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for extra protein and flavor boost.

What Makes Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup So Enjoyable

  • Reasons to Love This Recipe
  • Zero complex cooking techniques mean anyone from kitchen newbies to seasoned cooks can nail this delicious soup with confidence.
  • Creamy, hearty ingredients like Italian sausage, tortellini, and kale create a soul-warming meal that hugs you from the inside out.
  • Minimal prep and one-pot magic make this recipe a lifesaver for busy families craving a satisfying meal without spending hours cooking.
  • Easy to adjust spice levels, swap protein, or add extra veggies, ensuring everyone at the table finds something to love.

Ingredients In Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup

Base Ingredients:
  • Tortellini: Cheese-filled pasta that adds heartiness to the soup.
  • Italian Sausage: Meat that provides rich, savory flavor.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid base that creates the soup's foundation.
Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • Onions, Garlic: Base that builds depth of flavor.
  • Tuscan Kale: Leafy green that adds nutrition and texture.
  • Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Intense, concentrated tomato flavor.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Heavy Cream: Makes the soup creamy and luxurious.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Adds brightness and moisture.
  • Salt, Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Seasonings that enhance overall taste.
  • Olive Oil: Used for sautéing and adding subtle richness.

Easy Instructions For Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Prep the Aromatic Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot.

Add diced onions and minced garlic.

Sauté until onions become soft and translucent, releasing their sweet fragrance and creating a delicious foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Introduce Italian sausage to the pot.

Use a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces while cooking.

Allow the meat to develop a rich golden-brown color and release its savory flavors.

Step 3: Build the Liquid Foundation

Pour chicken broth into the pot.

Add diced tomatoes and stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a robust base.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Gently slide fresh tortellini into the simmering broth.

Let them cook directly in the liquid, absorbing the surrounding flavors and becoming wonderfully tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Dried Tomatoes

Incorporate into the soup:
  • Chopped Tuscan kale
  • Sun-dried tomatoes

Simmer until the tortellini reaches perfect tenderness and the kale wilts beautifully.

Step 6: Finish with Creamy Richness

Stir heavy cream into the soup, creating a luxurious texture.

Season with:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)

Allow the soup to warm through, blending all the flavors into a harmonious dish.

Smart Cooking Tips For Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup

  • Sauté onions and garlic slowly to release their natural sweetness, creating a rich aromatic base that elevates the entire soup's taste profile.
  • Swap Italian sausage with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian version without compromising the dish's robust flavor.
  • Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce calories while maintaining a creamy texture and satisfying mouthfeel.
  • Replace Tuscan kale with spinach, Swiss chard, or baby kale for different nutritional benefits and subtle flavor variations that complement the soup's profile.
  • Make this soup ahead and store in refrigerator for up to 3 days, allowing flavors to meld and intensify; reheat gently to preserve tortellini's tender texture.

Best Ways To Reheat Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup

  • Store soup in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring it's cooled completely before sealing.
  • Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Remove excess air and freeze for up to 2 months. Pasta might become slightly softer when thawed.
  • Pour soup into a pot, add a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid boiling to prevent cream from separating.
  • Place portion in microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Add extra broth if soup seems too thick.

Sides That Pair With Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup

  • Pair with Robust Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese that complements the soup's rich, savory flavors and cuts through the creamy texture.
  • Match with Crusty Garlic Bread: Prepare a warm, toasted baguette rubbed with fresh garlic and drizzled with olive oil to soak up the delicious broth and add a crispy contrast.
  • Complement with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light, peppery salad with arugula, shaved Parmesan, lemon vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness and provide a refreshing side dish.
  • Enhance with Herbed Focaccia: Bake a soft, herb-infused focaccia bread featuring rosemary and sea salt to offer a traditional Italian accompaniment that absorbs the soup's delectable flavors.

Creamy Soup Flavor Swaps And Styles

  • Vegetarian Delight: Swap Italian sausage with plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms like cremini for a protein-packed meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace traditional tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini or swap with zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit cheese toppings to create a creamy soup without dairy products.
  • Low-Sodium Version: Select low-sodium chicken broth, eliminate added salt, and use fresh herbs like basil or oregano to enhance flavor without extra sodium.
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Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup Recipe

Creamy Tuscan Garlic Tortellini Soup Recipe


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4.5 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Comforting Tuscan garlic tortellini soup whisks pasta lovers through Italian countryside flavors. Hearty cheese-filled tortellini swim in rich, garlic-infused broth, promising warmth and satisfaction with each delightful spoonful you savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein and Meat:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 medium onion (diced)
  • 6 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 cups Tuscan kale (cavolo nero, chopped)
  • ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes

Liquids and Dairy:

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Pasta and Seasonings:

  • 1 package (9 ounces / 255 grams) fresh cheese tortellini
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Garnish:

  • Fresh basil or parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until aromatic and onions become translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  2. Introduce Italian sausage to the pot, breaking it into crumbly pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat browns completely and develops a rich caramelized exterior, about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Pour chicken broth into the pot and add diced tomatoes. Gently increase heat to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing flavors to meld together for 7-8 minutes.
  4. Carefully add fresh tortellini directly into the simmering liquid. Allow pasta to cook and absorb the surrounding flavors, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, roughly 6-7 minutes.
  5. Incorporate chopped Tuscan kale and sun-dried tomatoes into the soup. Continue simmering until tortellini reaches tender consistency and kale wilts slightly, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low and slowly stir in heavy cream. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for additional warmth. Let the soup rest for 2 minutes to harmonize all ingredients before serving hot.

Notes

  • Choose fresh tortellini for the best texture and flavor, ensuring they’re cooked al dente to maintain a slight bite.
  • Opt for spicy Italian sausage to add depth, or use a mild version for those who prefer less heat.
  • Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a lactose-free alternative that maintains the soup’s creamy consistency.
  • Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles or extra mushrooms to keep the robust flavor profile intact.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Appetizer
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 30 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 80 mg
Olivia Bennett

Olivia Bennett

Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

  • Showcasing ingredients in plant-forward vegetarian dishes.
  • Creating adaptable weeklong menu templates centered on seasonal produce.

Education

Schoolcraft College

  • Program: Culinary Arts Associate Degree
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, menu planning, and food safety.

With an Associate Degree in Culinary Arts from Schoolcraft College and a natural knack for teaching, Olivia Bennett’s all about making home cooking feel possible, even on your busiest day.
Her thing? Recipes that are budget-friendly, season-forward, and full of Southern warmth. Whether it’s a roasted veggie bowl or a five-ingredient skillet bake, Olivia makes sure it’s simple, satisfying, and something you’ll want to make again tomorrow.
When she’s not shooting step-by-step videos or testing spice blends, she’s out foraging, flipping through old cookbooks, or throwing laid-back dinner parties with a BYO-mason-jar theme.

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