Hearty Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender tortellini, a rich tomato-based broth, and wholesome vegetables. This one-pot wonder is easy to make and perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a bowl of cozy warmth. Packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!
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For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups (500 ml) marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 2 cups (450 g) fresh or frozen tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
- 2 cups (60 g) fresh spinach or kale, chopped
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
Directions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Broth
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
- Add the tortellini to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
Step 4: Add the Greens
- Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Notes
- Tortellini options: Cheese-filled tortellini is a classic choice, but you can use meat or spinach-filled tortellini for variety.
- Make it creamy: Add 1/2 cup (120 ml) of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a creamy version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Freezing: For best results, freeze the soup without the tortellini. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of savory broth, tender tortellini, and fresh vegetables creates a balanced and satisfying meal. The simple ingredients come together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Conclusion
Hearty Tortellini Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to make. Perfect for warming up on cold days or enjoying as a light dinner, this recipe is a must-try for soup lovers. Whip up a batch today and savor the cozy goodness of this hearty, crowd-pleasing soup!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Hearty Tortellini Soup ahead of time, and if so, how should I store it?
Yes, you can absolutely make this soup ahead! For optimal results, prepare the soup base (sautéed vegetables, broth, tomatoes, and seasonings) up to 2 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the base, add the tortellini and cook according to package directions. The soup can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the base without the tortellini. Add the tortellini when you reheat the soup for the best texture. Leftovers, including the cooked tortellini, can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What if I don’t have all the vegetables listed, are there any substitutions I can make?
Certainly! If you don’t have carrots and celery, you can substitute with 1 cup of mixed frozen vegetables, such as peas, corn, and green beans. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. For the marinara sauce, if you don’t have it, you can use an additional can of diced tomatoes and add a teaspoon of sugar and a pinch of dried oregano to mimic the flavor. The key is to adjust the seasonings to your taste!
How do I know when the tortellini are perfectly cooked in the soup?
The tortellini are perfectly cooked when they float to the top of the soup and are tender but not mushy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the type of tortellini you’re using (fresh or frozen). You can also gently cut one open with a spoon to check for doneness; it should be cooked through but still retain its shape. Overcooked tortellini will become soft and fall apart, so keep a close eye on them.
Can I double or triple this Hearty Tortellini Soup recipe to serve a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up! If doubling, use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume of ingredients. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly, especially for the vegetables to soften. For tripling, use an even larger pot and be mindful of the cooking times. Always taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember to stir frequently to prevent sticking.
What are the nutritional benefits of the main ingredients in this soup?
This Hearty Tortellini Soup is packed with nutrients! Carrots and spinach are excellent sources of Vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function. Celery and onions provide antioxidants and fiber. The tomatoes contribute Vitamin C and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant. The chicken or vegetable broth adds hydration and minerals. The tortellini provides carbohydrates and protein, and the spinach also contributes iron.
HEARTY TORTELLINI SOUP
A delicious and comforting tortellini soup loaded with hearty vegetables and a rich broth.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh cheese tortellini or refrigerated
- 1 large carrot diced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cups spinach fresh
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, and sauté until softened.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in tortellini and cook for about 6-8 minutes or until tortellini is cooked.
- Add spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
Feel free to add some grated parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.
