There’s just something about a creamy soup that warms you from the inside out, isn’t there?

Chicken tortellini soup has always been a favorite in my house. It’s hearty, comforting, and relatively easy to throw together on a weeknight. It’s one of those dishes that evokes such lovely feelings of home.

I’ve been making this soup for years, tweaking it here and there to get it just right. This version, though? Well, this one is special.

What truly elevates this creamy chicken tortellini soup is the addition of smoked Gouda. Its nutty, smoky flavor melts beautifully into the broth, adding a depth that will surprise you. It complements the chicken and cheese tortellini so wonderfully.

And then, of course, there’s the crispy sage. Frying fresh sage leaves until they’re delightfully crisp and fragrant provides the perfect aromatic and textural counterpoint to the rich, creamy soup. It’s a little bit fancy, a whole lot delicious, and incredibly easy to do. Believe me, y’all.

This Smoked Gouda and Crispy Sage Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is sure to become a new family favorite.

What makes this creamy chicken tortellini soup so special? It’s all about layering flavors, y’all.

First, we start with a rich and savory chicken broth. This is the foundation of any good chicken soup, of course.

Then comes the creamy element. Half-and-half adds just the right amount of richness, without being too heavy.

Now, for the twist: smoked Gouda. That smoky depth really elevates the whole soup. It’s a simple addition that adds so much complexity.

And don’t forget the crispy sage! Frying the sage leaves in a little butter until they’re crisp adds a wonderful textural contrast and aromatic finish. Never underestimate the power of fresh herbs.

Finally, the cheese tortellini adds a lovely chewiness, and helps make it a hearty, complete meal. It is comfort food defined, if you ask me.

Each element builds on the others to create a soup that’s both comforting and exciting. I think you’ll find yourself making it again and again. It is just that good.

Gathering the ingredients is always my favorite part. It’s like setting the stage for a delicious story, one that ends, of course, with a comforting bowl of soup. This creamy chicken tortellini soup is extra special because of the smoked gouda and crispy sage we’re adding; these additions take it from simple to simply divine.

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this comforting soup. The amounts and specifics are important for achieving that perfect balance of flavors, so measure with care!

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great!)
• 9 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen
• 4 ounces smoked Gouda cheese, shredded
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
• 2 tablespoons butter

Don’t be intimidated by the list; it comes together quickly, I promise. The smoked Gouda adds a lovely depth that you just don’t get with regular cheese, and the crispy sage? Well, that’s just pure magic.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re well on your way to a warm and satisfying meal. I just know y’all are going to love it.

This creamy chicken tortellini soup is total comfort in a bowl, y’all. It’s a classic for a reason, but I wanted to elevate it with a little something special. The addition of smoked Gouda gives it a rich, nutty depth, and crispy sage adds a touch of earthy elegance that just sings. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add shredded cooked chicken. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease, or poach your own chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Tortellini

Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until tender. Don’t overcook them, nobody likes mushy tortellini.

Step 5: Add the Smoked Gouda

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded smoked Gouda until the cheese is melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. This cheese really takes things to the next level.

Step 6: Prepare the Crispy Sage

While the cheese is melting, prepare the crispy sage. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add fresh sage leaves in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes, until they are crisp but not burnt. Remove the sage leaves with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the creamy chicken tortellini soup into bowls. Garnish with the crispy sage leaves and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. I sometimes add a drizzle of good olive oil too.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting soup!

Serving this Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is a joy, and there are so many ways to make it special.

First, consider garnishes. A sprinkle of fresh parsley always brightens things up.

However, for this particular soup, we’re taking it a step further.

Remember that crispy sage we used in the soup itself? Reserve a few extra leaves to crumble on top of each bowl. It adds such a lovely textural contrast and a pop of earthy flavor.

A little extra shredded Smoked Gouda is never a bad idea either. It melts beautifully into the warm soup, creating those irresistible cheesy swirls.

For a heartier meal, serve with a side of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the creamy broth.

A simple side salad also complements the richness of the soup quite nicely. I especially like a salad with a bright vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess.

This soup also lends itself well to variations. Feel free to add a swirl of pesto or a dollop of sour cream for extra tang and flavor.

Ultimately, the best way to serve this soup is with love and a smile. Enjoy, y’all!

Proper storage is key to enjoying your Smoked Gouda and Crispy Sage Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup for days to come.

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

This prevents condensation from forming, which can affect the soup’s texture and flavor. No one wants soggy tortellini!

Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

When reheating, gently warm the soup over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the creamy consistency and prevents scorching. Microwaving works too, but can sometimes make the tortellini a bit softer.

As for reusing leftovers, there are so many possibilities! You can add a splash of cream or chicken broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage.

Consider stirring in some fresh spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors, especially with the richness of the Smoked Gouda.

Another idea? Use the soup as a sauce for pasta! Just toss it with your favorite noodles for a quick and easy meal.

I even like to use leftover Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup as a base for a chicken pot pie. The smoky Gouda adds such a delicious depth!

However you choose to enjoy it, I hope this soup brings you comfort and warmth.

I know how life goes. Sometimes, you’re missing an ingredient or two. Or maybe you just want to put your own spin on things. That’s perfectly alright! Here are a few substitutions and variations for my Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup that I think y’all will find helpful.

• Tortellini: If you can’t find cheese tortellini, spinach or meat tortellini will also work beautifully. Fresh or dried tortellini both offer a delightful chew.
• Smoked Gouda: If smoked gouda isn’t available, regular gouda, provolone, or even a mild cheddar can be used in its place. The smoked gouda adds such a lovely depth, though, so if you can find it, I do recommend it!
• Chicken: Leftover rotisserie chicken makes this recipe even easier. You could also use shredded turkey or omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
• Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, try using half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the soup won’t be quite as rich and creamy. You can also use a plant-based cream.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or zucchini. Frozen peas or green beans would also be a nice addition.
• Crispy Sage: Fresh parsley or thyme can be substituted for crispy sage. However, the crispy sage provides such a lovely textural element and earthy aroma that I encourage you to try it.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this soup your own. This recipe is merely a guide. The most important ingredient, after all, is love. Happy cooking, friends!

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about my creamy chicken tortellini soup. I hope these help!

Can I use frozen tortellini in this creamy chicken tortellini soup recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works beautifully and is super convenient. Just add it directly to the simmering soup during the last few minutes of cooking, according to the package directions, until they are tender and heated through. This works for my version with Smoked Gouda and Crispy Sage too.

Is this creamy chicken tortellini soup suitable for freezing?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you *can* freeze this soup, but there are a couple things to keep in mind. The tortellini might become a little softer after thawing. Also, the creamy base can sometimes separate slightly. To minimize this, cool the soup completely before freezing it in airtight containers or freezer bags. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, stirring frequently. I find that the Smoked Gouda in my version holds up surprisingly well to freezing.

Can I make creamy chicken tortellini soup ahead of time?

Yes, you certainly can! The soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare the soup through the simmering stage, but don’t add the cream or tortellini. Store it in the refrigerator. Then, when you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup, stir in the cream and tortellini, and cook until the tortellini is tender. The fresh crispy sage is best added right before serving. And that smoky Gouda flavor deepens overnight, y’all.

What are some good substitutions for ingredients in this creamy chicken tortellini soup?

Feel free to get creative! If you don’t have chicken, cooked turkey or even cannellini beans would work well. Spinach or kale can be substituted for the greens. If you’re not a fan of Smoked Gouda, try regular Gouda or Fontina. And while I love fresh sage, thyme or rosemary would also be delicious.

How can I make this creamy chicken tortellini soup even creamier?

For an extra-rich and creamy soup, consider adding a tablespoon or two of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir until it’s completely melted and incorporated. Alternatively, you could blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the cream. The Smoked Gouda adds a natural creaminess, but a little extra never hurts, right?

Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup with Smoked Gouda and Crispy Sage

Yield: 6 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

This Creamy Chicken Tortellini Soup is elevated with the rich smokiness of Gouda and the delightful crunch of crispy sage. It's a comforting bowl with a twist!

Print

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
• 9 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 4 ounces smoked Gouda, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or more to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add shredded chicken and tortellini. Cook until tortellini is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low. Stir in smoked Gouda, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through, but do not boil.
4. While the soup simmers, prepare the crispy sage. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, add sage leaves in a single layer.
5. Cook sage leaves for 1-2 minutes, until crispy and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
6. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with crispy sage leaves. Serve immediately and enjoy, y'all!