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!
Ingredients
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!