Lasagna Soup with Tortellini (Print Version)

Comforting Italian-style soup with sausage, tomatoes, and cheesy tortellini

# What You Need:

→ Meats

01 - 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
05 - 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
06 - 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

→ Broth & Liquids

07 - 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

→ Pasta

08 - 10 oz cheese tortellini

→ Spices & Herbs

09 - 1 tsp dried basil
10 - 1 tsp dried oregano
11 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
12 - 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Dairy & Cheese

14 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
15 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
16 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Garnish

17 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Cook Italian sausage in a large Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
02 - Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
03 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
04 - Add cheese tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes until tender according to package directions.
05 - Stir in heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture if desired.
06 - Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until melted and fully incorporated.
07 - Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It delivers every lasagna flavor you crave in about one third of the time
  • The tortellini somehow taste even better when they soak up that spiced tomato broth
02 -
  • The soup will continue to thicken as it sits because the tortellini absorbs the broth so plan to add a splash more broth or water when reheating leftovers
  • Dont skip the step of draining excess fat from the sausage otherwise you will end up with an oily layer on top
03 -
  • Use fresh tortellini from the refrigerated section instead of dried for the best texture
  • Grate your own Parmesan instead of buying pre grated cheese for way more flavor