This warm and comforting Tomato Tortellini Soup is a hug in a bowl! It has tender tortellini and juicy tomatoes swimming in a tasty broth.
I enjoy sipping this soup on chilly days, and it pairs perfectly with some crusty bread. It’s a simple way to warm up and feel cozy! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is great for sautéing and adding a mild flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable oil or butter. Butter will add a richer taste.
Onion: A sweet onion, like a yellow onion, brings out a nice flavor. If you need a milder taste, go for shallots or scallions. You could also skip it if you prefer.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. You could use 1/8 tsp of garlic powder if you’re out of fresh garlic.
Crushed Tomatoes: These provide the soup base. If you have canned diced tomatoes, you can mash them up or blend them for a similar texture. Tomato sauce could be used, but it’s thinner.
Broth: Use vegetable or chicken broth depending on your preference. You can replace it with water, but add more seasonings to boost the flavor.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream gives a lovely richness. If you want lighter, use half-and-half or even milk for a thinner soup, though it won’t be as creamy.
Tortellini: I love cheese tortellini in this soup. You can swap it with ravioli or any pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time!
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds color and nutrients. Kale or Swiss chard can also work, just chop them smaller, as they take longer to cook.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Turns Out Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a creamy and flavorful soup is in the layering of your ingredients and cooking steps. Start by slowly sautéing the onions and garlic to release their natural sweetness. This adds depth to your soup!
- Use medium heat for sautéing to avoid burning.
- Let the soup simmer to meld the flavors—10 minutes is usually perfect!
- When you add the cream, stir it well and let it simmer on low heat; don’t boil it, or it may curdle.
- Don’t skip tasting and adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper. Just a pinch can make a big difference!
- Be sure to add the tortellini toward the end to keep them tender.
These tips will help you create a deliciously creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup that’s bursting with flavor!
How to Make Tomato Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 package (9–10 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp dried basil or 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Optional: crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tomato tortellini soup takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time, so in about 35 minutes, you’ll have a warm, delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your soup.
2. Adding Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about 1 minute. Stir it often until you smell the garlic’s wonderful aroma—it shouldn’t brown too much, just soften up.
3. Mixing in Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and your choice of vegetable or chicken broth. Stir well to combine everything and bring it to life!
4. Seasoning the Soup:
Now, add the dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This helps the flavors marry together beautifully.
5. Creamy Delight:
After simmering, stir in the heavy cream to create a luxurious, creamy texture. Let it simmer on low for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t boil.
6. Cooking the Tortellini:
Now it’s time to add the tortellini! Toss it into the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes until they float to the top and are tender. This is where it gets exciting!
7. Finishing Touches with Spinach:
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until it’s wilted, about 1-2 minutes. This adds freshness and color to your soup.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—just a pinch of salt or pepper can elevate the flavors!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Don’t forget the crusty bread on the side for dipping!
This recipe yields a rich, creamy tomato soup that’s packed with cheesy tortellini and vibrant spinach. It’s the perfect cozy meal for any day!
Can I Use Frozen Tortellini Instead of Refrigerated?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen tortellini, just increase the cooking time slightly according to the package instructions, usually by a couple of minutes. Ensure they are cooked until they float to the top and are tender.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
No problem! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your tortellini is made without any meat or animal products. Many store-bought varieties are vegetarian-friendly.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth or cream if needed to restore the soup’s creamy texture.
Can I Add Other Veggies to the Soup?
Yes! Feel free to add veggies like diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onion at the beginning to ensure they’re cooked through by the time the soup is done.
