Tomato Tortellini Soup

Tomato Tortellini Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that combines the tangy richness of tomato soup with the soft, cheesy bite of tortellini pasta. It’s a satisfying and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or quick weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a perfect blend of flavor and convenience. The creamy tomato base is enhanced with herbs and spices, while the cheese-stuffed tortellini adds texture and substance, making it a filling meal on its own. It’s a one-pot dish that requires minimal prep, and it can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

• Olive oil

• Onion

• Garlic

• Crushed tomatoes

• Tomato paste

• Vegetable or chicken broth

• Heavy cream or half-and-half

• Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper

• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

• Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until softened.

2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir to combine.

5. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

6. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow flavors to develop.

7. Stir in heavy cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.

8. Add tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5–7 minutes, until tender.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

10. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add protein: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.

• Make it vegan: Use plant-based tortellini, non-dairy cream, and vegetable broth.

• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Extra veggies: Include spinach, kale, zucchini, or mushrooms for a veggie boost.

• Use different tortellini: Swap cheese tortellini with meat- or spinach-filled versions for variation.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the tortellini, as the pasta may become mushy upon reheating.

To reheat, warm gently on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid boiling once the tortellini is in the soup to preserve their texture.

FAQs

What type of tortellini should I use?

You can use fresh or refrigerated tortellini. Cheese-filled is traditional, but feel free to use other varieties like meat or spinach.

Can I use canned tomato soup as a base?

While it’s possible, making your own base with crushed tomatoes and paste provides a richer, more flavorful soup.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the soup before adding tortellini. Add fresh tortellini when reheating.

How can I make this soup creamier?

Increase the amount of heavy cream or use a bit of cream cheese for extra richness.

Can I use dried tortellini?

Yes, but increase the cooking time as directed on the package and monitor texture closely.

How do I prevent the tortellini from becoming mushy?

Add tortellini toward the end of cooking and cook just until tender. Avoid overcooking or prolonged simmering after they are added.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not by default. To make it gluten-free, use certified gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, prepare the base in the slow cooker and add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

What herbs pair well with this soup?

Basil, oregano, thyme, and parsley all complement the tomato and tortellini flavors well.

Conclusion

Tomato Tortellini Soup is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its creamy tomato base and tender tortellini, it offers both comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as-is or customized with your favorite ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite

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