This Easy One-Pot Tortellini Soup Recipe is just the kind of comforting meal you want on a chilly day. It’s filled with cheesy tortellini that get nice and soft as they cook right in the broth, along with fresh veggies and a flavorful broth that warms you up from the inside out. It’s simple but packed with taste, and the best part is everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
I love making this soup when I want something quick but still hearty. It’s great because I can toss all the ingredients together, let it simmer, and before I know it, dinner is ready. Plus, the tortellini adds a fun, cheesy twist that everyone in my family asks for. I usually add a little spinach or kale to sneak in some greens, and it never feels like too much work.
My favorite way to serve this soup is with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. It turns dinner into a cozy moment, perfect for relaxing at home. Whenever I make this, I think about how easy it is to keep warm and full without fussing over multiple pots or pans. It’s truly a one-pot wonder that I’m happy to have in my weeknight dinner rotation.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheese Tortellini: This is the star of the soup, offering soft, cheesy bites. If you can’t find cheese tortellini, feel free to use spinach or mushroom tortellini instead. For a dairy-free option, try vegan-filled tortellini or small pasta shapes like gnocchi.
Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the soup’s flavor. For a vegetarian or vegan version, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth works great if you want extra richness.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is great for a pop of green and nutrients. If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard work well too. Just add them a bit earlier to soften.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty finish. If you’re avoiding dairy, skip it or try a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
How Do You Cook Tortellini Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Tortellini cooks quickly, so timing is key. Here’s how to get it just right every time:
- Add tortellini to simmering broth, not boiling hard, to prevent them from bursting.
- Stir gently and occasionally to keep tortellini from sticking to the bottom or each other.
- Follow the package timing, usually 3-5 minutes, and taste one near the end to check for tenderness.
- Remove the soup from heat right when tortellini is al dente — they’ll continue to soften slightly off the heat.
This way, tortellini stays tender but holds its shape, making your soup delightful with every bite.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large heavy-bottomed pot – perfect for cooking everything in one place without burning.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – easy for stirring the soup gently and scraping the pot sides.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you get the seasoning and broth just right.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots.
- Ladle – great for serving the hot soup into bowls without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked Italian sausage or diced chicken for a protein boost that makes it more filling.
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green with a slightly different flavor.
- Mix in a bit of crushed red pepper flakes for a gentle spicy kick.
- Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup experience.
Easy One-Pot Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy meal that you can have ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a comforting dinner fast.
Instructions:
1. Sauté Your Veggies
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and clear. Then, stir in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Cook everything together for another 2 minutes until the garlic smells amazing.
2. Add Broth and Seasonings
Next, pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Give it all a good stir and bring the soup up to a boil. Then turn the heat down and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, so the carrots get nice and tender.
3. Cook the Tortellini and Add Greens
Once your broth is simmering and carrots are soft, add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, stirring now and then so they don’t stick. When the tortellini are soft and tender, toss in the fresh chopped spinach and stir until it just wilts down.
4. Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a lovely creamy touch. Scoop the soup into bowls and sprinkle a little extra Parmesan and fresh herbs on top if you like. Serve it warm with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy your easy, hearty soup!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time since frozen tortellini takes slightly longer to cook through. Make sure not to thaw it beforehand to avoid it getting mushy.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the soup up to the point before adding the tortellini and spinach. Cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently and add fresh tortellini and spinach, cooking just until tender and wilted.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Tortellini can absorb broth, so if the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water when reheating to loosen it up.
Can I Add Protein to This Soup?
Definitely! Cooked shredded chicken, Italian sausage, or even cooked beans make great additions if you want a heartier meal. Add them when you add the tortellini for best flavor integration.
