This warm and cozy tomato tortellini soup is perfect for chilly days! With tasty tortellini, rich tomatoes, and a sprinkle of herbs, it’s a hug in a bowl.
You can’t go wrong when it’s this easy! Just toss everything in a pot, and your dinner is ready in no time. I often pair it with some crunchy bread for extra fun!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps cook the onion. If you don’t have olive oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or butter instead.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness. If you’re in a hurry, you can replace it with shallots or even use onion powder (about 1 teaspoon)!
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon). I love using fresh for the aroma it creates while cooking.
Tomato Base: Whether using tomato soup or crushed tomatoes depends on your texture preference. Canned diced tomatoes are another option for added chunkiness.
Broth: Vegetable or chicken broth both work nicely. For a vegetarian diet, stick to vegetable broth. You can even use water, though it will dull the flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup a rich texture. If you prefer a lighter version, half-and-half or even coconut milk can be a good swap for a dairy-free option.
Tortellini: Cheese tortellini is classic, but you can use spinach or meat tortellini. For gluten-free needs, look for a gluten-free pasta alternative.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Enhancing flavors in this soup is crucial! Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by cooking the onion until it becomes soft and translucent; this helps draw out sweetness.
- After adding garlic, cook just until fragrant. Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it!
- Let the soup simmer long enough to allow the flavors to blend; around 10 minutes is ideal.
- Incorporating heavy cream at the end keeps it from curdling and maintains that smooth texture.
Lastly, taste your soup before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed. This extra step makes all the difference! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
How to Make Tomato Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Basics:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base:
- 4 cups tomato soup or 4 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Creamy Elements:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Tortellini & Greens:
- 1 package (about 9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes to have it ready on your table. It’s a quick and hearty dish that’s sure to warm you up!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This step is important for enhancing the flavor!
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Keep stirring often so that the garlic doesn’t burn. This will fill your kitchen with a wonderful aroma!
3. Creating the Soup Base:
Pour in the tomato soup or crushed tomatoes and add the vegetable or chicken broth. Stir everything well to combine into a smooth mixture.
4. Seasoning the Soup:
Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, which will help all those lovely flavors meld together.
5. Simmering:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes. This is your time to relax while the soup does its magic!
6. Making it Creamy:
After simmering, stir in the heavy cream. Allow the soup to heat through for a couple of minutes while making sure not to boil it at this stage.
7. Cooking the Tortellini:
Now, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the soup. Cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3-5 minutes until they are tender and cooked through.
8. Adding Fresh Spinach:
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and vibrant.
9. Final Taste Check:
Take a moment to taste the soup and adjust for more salt or pepper if desired. You want it just right!
10. Serving your Soup:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if you like. It’s perfect when paired with a slice of crusty bread. Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade tomato tortellini soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Tortellini?
Absolutely! While cheese tortellini is traditional, you can use spinach or even meat-filled tortellini for extra flavor. Just make sure to cook according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes, you can make this soup vegan by using plant-based tortellini and substituting the heavy cream with coconut milk or a vegan cream alternative. Adjust the seasoning to make sure the flavors balance nicely!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For extra depth, consider adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for spice. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the flavor, just be cautious not to overpower the dish!
