This cozy tortellini soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With cheesy tortellini, fresh veggies, and a rich broth, it’s perfect for chilly nights or any time you need comfort.
I love how quickly this soup comes together—just toss everything in and let it simmer. Plus, if I have leftovers, they make for a delightful lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a lovely flavor, but you can substitute with any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil. Butter also works well for a richer taste!
Onion: A small onion brings sweetness and depth. If you’re short on time, try using a shallot or even reduce the amount of onion for a lighter flavor.
Chicken Broth: Feel free to use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth adds depth, but store-bought is quick and convenient.
Diced Tomatoes: The canned variety makes this recipe easy. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, about 4 cups diced would be great—just make sure to add them earlier in the cooking process to soften.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half works too. You could also use coconut milk for a dairy-free choice, but it will change the flavor slightly.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is classic, but you can swap in any filled pasta you love, like mushroom or spinach tortellini. Even gnocchi would work well!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts perfectly, but feel free to use kale or Swiss chard if you prefer—just chop it finely.
How Do I Achieve a Rich Flavor in My Soup?
Building flavor in your tortellini soup starts with sautéing the onion and garlic. This creates a flavorful base for your soup.
- Use medium heat to avoid burning the garlic; it should just become fragrant.
- The broth brings depth to the dish, so a good quality one makes a difference!
- Allow the soup to simmer to blend the flavors; don’t rush this step—10 minutes is perfect!
By paying attention to these steps, you’ll elevate your soup, making it truly comforting and delicious! Enjoy every bowl full!
How to Make Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 (9-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious tortellini soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25 minutes. In no time, you’ll have a rich and savory soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is where your flavor base starts to build!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn!
3. Combine the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Add the dried Italian seasoning and stir well. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer to Blend Flavors:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows all those lovely flavors to meld together.
5. Add Cream and Tortellini:
Now stir in the heavy cream. After that, add the cheese tortellini into the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and heated through.
6. Incorporate Spinach:
Finally, add the chopped spinach. Cook for another minute until it wilts and brightens the soup.
7. Season and Serve:
Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a comforting touch, pair it with some crusty bread!
This tortellini soup is rich, creamy, and comforting—perfect for warming you up on chilly days. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen tortellini directly to the soup without thawing. You may need to extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes to ensure they cook through properly.
How Can I Make This Soup Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten the recipe, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, milk, or even a dairy-free option like almond or oat milk. Reducing the amount of tortellini can also help cut down calories while still keeping the soup hearty!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Sure! Feel free to boost the nutrition by adding other veggies like carrots, peas, or zucchini. Just chop them into small pieces and add them during the sautéing step so they have time to cook until tender.
