Name: Tortellini Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 lb. lean ground beef; 1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onion; 1 cup diced celery; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 Tbsp minced garlic; 2 cups (2 oz) spinach, roughly chopped; 3 Tbsp minced fresh parsley; 3 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes; 3 (8 oz) cans tomato sauce; 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 57 reviews

There is nothing quite like a warm bowl of comforting pasta broth to brighten any day, and this Tortellini Soup Recipe does just that with joyful ease. Brimming with tender cheese tortellini, hearty ground beef, and fresh garden veggies swimming in a savory tomato broth, it’s the perfect cozy meal for gathering family and friends. Each spoonful bursts with flavor and texture, making it a go-to soup to lift spirits and satisfy hunger no matter the season.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of a white pot filled with a thick red tomato soup showing round, folded tortellini pasta floating on the surface. The soup has visible bits of cooked brown ground meat, small cubes of orange carrots, chopped green celery, and fresh green parsley sprinkled on top. A dark wooden spoon is inside the pot, stirring the soup, resting near the center. The pot sits on a gray striped cloth on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind this Tortellini Soup Recipe comes down to simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find and incredibly flavorful. Each one plays a role in creating a well-rounded taste and beautiful color palette for the soup, from the fragrant garlic to the rich tomato sauce and fresh spinach.

Olive oil: The perfect foundation for sautéing your beef and veggies, adding a subtle fruity richness.
Lean ground beef: Brings hearty protein and a savory depth to the soup’s base.
Chopped yellow onion: Adds a gentle sweetness and aromatic warmth when cooked.
Diced celery: Offers a fresh, crisp texture and subtle earthiness.
Diced carrots: Sweetness and vibrant color brighten every bite.
Minced garlic: Punches up the flavor with its unmistakable zestiness.
Low-sodium chicken broth (3 cans): A light, savory liquid that ties the flavors together without overpowering.
Petite diced tomatoes: They bring bright acidity and a chunky, luscious texture.
Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato base with smooth, rich tomato flavor.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that evokes the taste of Italy in every spoonful.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all other flavors.
Cheese tortellini: The star pasta that makes this soup special—with creamy, cheesy pockets of deliciousness.
Spinach: Adds freshness, color, and a boost of nutrients.
Fresh parsley: A bright, herbal finish that livens the entire dish.

How to Make Tortellini Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and crumble in the ground beef. Let it cook undisturbed for about three minutes until the bottom starts to brown. This initial sear builds rich flavor, so don’t rush it. Then turn and break up the beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain or adjust fat as needed to keep the soup from being greasy.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with reserved fat. Cook over medium heat until the veggies begin to soften, about seven minutes. This step draws out sweetness and tenderizes the vegetables, creating a flavorful base. Toss in minced garlic last and sauté just one more minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning.

Step 3: Build the broth

Pour in the chicken broth, petite diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and the cooked beef. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are nearly tender—about 15 minutes. This slow simmering melds all the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add tortellini and greens

Stir in the cheese tortellini and simmer according to the package instructions, usually about four to seven minutes until al dente and tender. Finally, stir in the roughly chopped spinach and minced fresh parsley just before serving. The spinach wilts nicely into the warm broth, adding fresh vibrancy and nutrients to this hearty soup.

How to Serve Tortellini Soup Recipe

The image is divided into four parts, each showing a white pot on a stove with a white marbled surface underneath. The top left part shows raw ground beef in small clusters, bright red and unevenly shaped, lying flat in the white pot. The top right part shows the same pot with cooked ground beef, now brown and crumbled, with a wooden spoon stuck on the side. The bottom left part shows diced vegetables inside the white pot with a wooden spoon resting on the side; the vegetables are bright orange carrots, light green celery, and white onions arranged in separate patches. The bottom right part shows the same vegetables sautéed and softened, mixed together, with minced garlic added on top in the middle, all inside the white pot with some brown bits around the sides. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a few cracked black pepper flakes on top adds a perfect finishing touch. You can also scatter some extra fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of good olive oil before serving can elevate the flavors even further and add a glossy sheen.

Side Dishes

Serve this comforting Tortellini Soup Recipe with warm crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up the delicious broth. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup and keeps the meal light and fresh. For an extra indulgent meal, pair it with a cheesy garlic focaccia or toasted baguette slices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. Top with a swirl of pesto or a dollop of ricotta cheese for added creaminess and visual appeal. Garnish with edible flowers or a pinch of chili flakes if you like a touch of heat and eye-catching contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Tortellini Soup Recipe cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for three to four days. Give it a good stir before reheating, as the pasta may absorb some broth while stored.

Freezing

This soup freezes well but keep in mind that the tortellini might soften a bit more after thawing. For best texture, consider freezing the soup base and cooked beef separately from the tortellini and spinach. Thaw completely before combining and reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the broth has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. For microwave reheating, cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warmth without overcooking the pasta.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! While cheese tortellini give this soup its signature creamy pockets, you can substitute with ravioli, gnocchi, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking times based on the pasta’s package instructions.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You might want to add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like mushrooms or beans for heartiness.

Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

You can brown the beef and sauté the veggies beforehand, then combine all ingredients except for the tortellini, spinach, and parsley in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the pasta and greens during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

How spicy is this Tortellini Soup Recipe?

This recipe is mild and family-friendly. However, you can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or at the table for a spicy kick if you love heat.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without the tortellini getting mushy?

Reheat gently and avoid boiling the soup when warming. Adding a little extra broth or water helps keep the pasta from becoming too soft. Alternatively, reheat just the broth and veggies, then add fresh tortellini when serving.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a soul-soothing, crowd-pleasing meal, this Tortellini Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s packed with comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and heartwarming memories in every bowl. I encourage you to make a big pot, savor the aromas, and share it with people you love—because great food like this brings everyone together in the best way.