This Tomato Tortellini Soup is warm and cozy, packed with tender pasta and rich tomato flavor. It’s easy to whip up in just a short time, perfect for busy nights!
Who doesn’t love a bowl of soup that feels like a big hug? I love tossing in extra veggies for a pop of color. Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that warms the heart!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A staple for sautéing, olive oil adds flavor. If you want a different taste, you can use avocado oil or butter instead. Both work well!
Onion: A small onion brings a sweet and aromatic base. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or leeks can make excellent substitutes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used, but remember to use less—about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian, while chicken broth adds a richer flavor. Either way, low-sodium versions are great for controlling salt content.
Crushed Tomatoes: They provide the soup’s base. If you’re out, diced tomatoes or passata can work too. You might need to blend them for a smoother texture.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini adds heartiness. If you prefer a lighter version, try using whole-wheat or spinach tortellini. For gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini!
Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess to the soup. If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a different twist!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Cooking?
The key to a delicious soup lies in the cooking technique. Sautéing the onions and garlic first is crucial. It unlocks deep flavors that get absorbed by the broth. Follow these steps for a tasty base:
- Heat the olive oil on medium heat before adding onions. This helps them soften without burning.
- Cook onions until they’re translucent and soft, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add garlic last to preserve its flavor; it only needs 30 seconds in the pan before adding other liquids.
- Don’t rush the simmer! Allow the flavors to meld for at least 10 minutes. It’s worth the wait!
Taking your time with these first steps will result in a soup that’s rich in flavor. Happy cooking!
Tomato Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups (1 quart) vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
Seasoning Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients:
- 1 container (9-12 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Tomato Tortellini Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take around 4-5 minutes. This step is important because it builds a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—I promise, you don’t want that bitter taste!
3. Mix in the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot, followed by the crushed tomatoes. Stir everything together, then add the dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Season with salt and pepper to taste. This is where the soup starts to get its amazing flavor!
4. Let It Simmer:
Bring the soup to a lovely boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time helps the flavors blend nicely.
5. Cook the Tortellini:
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to your pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the tortellini floats to the surface and is tender.
6. Add Cream and Spinach:
Pour in the heavy cream to create a rich and creamy texture. Gently stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re just wilted. You’ll love the vibrant green color!
7. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:
Now is the time to taste your soup and adjust any seasonings if needed. More salt? A pinch of pepper? Make it perfect for your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for that extra pop of flavor and color. Serve your Tomato Tortellini Soup hot, with some crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Tomato Tortellini Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just follow the package instructions for cooking time. Keep in mind that it may take a couple of extra minutes to cook them through, so ensure they are heated thoroughly before serving.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
This recipe is mostly vegetarian as it uses vegetable broth. Simply ensure that the tortellini you choose is also vegetarian or made without any meat fillings. You can also increase the amount of spinach or add other vegetables for extra nutrition!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.
How to Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or standard blender, then stir it back into the pot. Alternatively, adding a little more cream or letting it simmer longer can help thicken the soup as well!
