Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe

Tomato Tortellini Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of tomato soup with the heartiness of cheese-filled tortellini. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a quick yet delicious meal. It’s a family-friendly option that’s easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Tomato Tortellini Soup will quickly become a go-to recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Base

1. Add the Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic.
2. Add the Broth: Slowly add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure everything is well mixed.
3. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook the Tortellini

1. Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
2. Add the Tortellini: Once the soup has simmered, add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 7-9 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

1. Stir in the Cream: Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream, making the soup creamy and rich.
2. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt or pepper if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish the Soup: Ladle the Tomato Tortellini Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh Tortellini: If possible, use fresh cheese tortellini for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen tortellini, adjust the cooking time as needed.

Creamy Texture

• Adding Cream: To avoid curdling, add the cream slowly and stir continuously over low heat. This will ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

Customize Your Soup

• Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Variations to Try

Spicy Tomato Tortellini Soup

• Kick of Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

Meaty Version

• Add Protein: You can add cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or ground beef to the soup for a heartier meal.

Vegetarian Option

• Vegetable Broth: Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and use plant-based tortellini for a vegetarian version of this soup.

Conclusion

Tomato Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of comfort and flavor. With its creamy tomato base and tender cheese tortellini, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet it’s also delicious enough to serve at a weekend gathering. Whether you enjoy it on its own or paired with a salad or bread, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something warm and comforting.

FAQs

Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?

Yes, you can substitute the tortellini with other pasta, such as ravioli or small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I Freeze Tomato Tortellini Soup?

It’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini, as the pasta can become mushy when reheated. Freeze the tomato base, then add fresh tortellini when reheating.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.

How Can I Make the Soup More Filling?

Add extra vegetables, such as spinach or kale, or include a protein like cooked sausage or chicken to make the soup more filling and nutritious.

Yield: 6

Tomato Tortellini Soup Recipe

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Tomato Tortellini Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of tomato soup with the heartiness of cheese-filled tortellini. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a quick yet delicious meal. It’s a family-friendly option that’s easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this Tomato Tortellini Soup will quickly become a go-to recipe.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
   Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
   
2. Prepare the Soup Base:
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and sugar (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
   
3. Add the Tortellini and Cream:
   Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer.
   Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
   
4. Finish and Serve:
   Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

Tortellini Options: You can use any type of tortellini (cheese, spinach, or meat-filled) based on your preference.

Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.

Cream Substitutes: For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit more broth or cream if the soup thickens.

Freezing: If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to do so before adding the tortellini, as the pasta can become mushy when reheated. Cook the tortellini separately when ready to serve.