Tomato Tortellini Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Tomato Tortellini Soup: the ultimate comfort food, ready in under 30 minutes! Imagine a chilly evening, the aroma of simmering tomatoes filling your kitchen, and a warm, satisfying bowl of soup in your hands. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a creamy, flavorful experience that will transport you to a cozy Italian trattoria.

While the exact origins of Tomato Tortellini Soup are debated, the combination of tomato-based soups and pasta-filled dumplings has been a staple in Italian-American cuisine for generations. It represents a fusion of simple, readily available ingredients transformed into something truly special. Think of it as a hug in a bowl, a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of tangy tomato broth, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a touch of creaminess that elevates the entire dish. People adore it for its ease of preparation, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, herbs, or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Get ready to discover why this Tomato Tortellini Soup is about to become your new go-to recipe!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Soup:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Soup Base

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent burning. We want the onions to release their sweetness and form the foundation of our soup’s flavor.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Watch carefully, as garlic can burn easily. Burnt garlic will impart a bitter taste to the soup, which we definitely want to avoid!
3. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine with the onions and garlic. Then, add the vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if you prefer a richer flavor).
4. Season the Soup: Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s harder to take it away!
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it will become.

Cooking the Tortellini

1. Add Tortellini: After the soup has simmered, add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Stir gently to ensure they are submerged in the liquid.
2. Cook Tortellini: Cook the tortellini according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender and float to the surface. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

Finishing Touches

1. Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half) and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the cream is fully incorporated, creating a creamy and luscious texture.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to your liking.
3. Serve: Ladle the tomato tortellini soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and extra grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, kale, carrots, or zucchini. Add them along with the tortellini so they have time to cook through.
• Use Different Tortellini: You can use different types of tortellini, such as meat-filled or spinach and ricotta-filled. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make it Vegan: To make this soup vegan, use vegetable broth, vegan tortellini, and a plant-based cream alternative. You can also omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
• Blend for a Smoother Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before adding the tortellini. Be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some texture.
• Add Protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken. Brown the meat before adding the onions and garlic.
• Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well, using fresh herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley will elevate the flavor even further. Add them towards the end of the cooking process to preserve their freshness.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the soup. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The tortellini may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
• Freezing: While the soup base freezes well, I don’t recommend freezing it with the tortellini already added, as they can become mushy upon thawing. If you want to freeze the soup, freeze the base separately and add the cooked tortellini when you reheat it.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is another great accompaniment to this soup.
• Side Salad: A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese: A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic pairing with tomato soup.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

• Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving
• Fat: 20-30g
• Saturated Fat: 10-15g
• Cholesterol: 50-70mg
• Sodium: 800-1000mg
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Fiber: 3-5g
• Sugar: 10-15g
• Protein: 15-20g

This Tomato Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Tomato Tortellini Soup isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a burst of Italian sunshine on a cloudy day, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. From the simplicity of its preparation to the depth of its flavor, it’s a dish that deserves a permanent spot in your recipe repertoire. The creamy tomato base, perfectly cooked cheese tortellini, and aromatic herbs combine to create a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but elegant enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic!

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment and make it your own. For a heartier meal, consider adding some grilled chicken or Italian sausage. If you’re a fan of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes will add a delightful kick. Want to boost the veggie content? Spinach, kale, or zucchini would be fantastic additions. And for an extra layer of richness, a dollop of pesto or a swirl of cream at the end is always a good idea.

Serving suggestions are endless! A crusty loaf of bread, perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth, is a must. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the soup beautifully. And for a truly decadent experience, try topping it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

I’ve made this Tomato Tortellini Soup countless times, and it’s always a hit. My family loves it, my friends rave about it, and I’m confident that you will too. It’s the kind of recipe that you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again, whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold day or a quick and easy dinner solution.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create some culinary magic! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it’s an invitation to create a delicious memory, a moment of warmth and comfort, and a celebration of simple, flavorful ingredients.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Tomato Tortellini Soup. And I can’t wait to hear about your experience! Did you add any special ingredients? Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Please, share your thoughts, photos, and variations in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me to continue creating recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! Let me know how it turns out! I am sure you will love it as much as I do. Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it!