If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Tortellini Soup Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that sings with Italian herb goodness, it effortlessly combines simplicity and heartiness. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something special to brighten chilly days, this soup hits every note perfectly and is sure to become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret behind this Tortellini Soup Recipe’s incredible flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role — from the tender tortellini providing comforting bites, to the fresh spinach adding vibrant color, and the hearty broth bringing everything together in a savory symphony.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and perfectly sautés the vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced: Offers a subtle sweetness that deepens as it cooks.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with classic aromatic warmth.
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely pop of orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, sliced: Provides a fresh, slightly crunchy texture and earthy undertones.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Delivers that authentic Italian herb blend that ties the soup together.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Brings a gentle hint of spice and depth.
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The delicious base that carries all the flavors with warmth and body.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice: Adds a juicy tang and balances the creaminess of the tortellini.
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star ingredient that gives this soup its irresistible bite and creaminess.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: A bright, nutritious addition that wilts perfectly into the hot broth.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for salty, nutty richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal final touch and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery, then cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until the veggies become tender and start to soften. This step unlocks their natural sweetness and builds the flavor foundation for your soup. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds to release its amazing aroma without burning it.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Now it’s time to stir in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. These dry spices burst into life when combined with the fresh vegetables. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the diced tomatoes and their juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes so all those wonderful flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
With the broth simmering, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot. Follow the package instructions—usually cooking for about 5 to 7 minutes—until the tortellini are tender and pillowy. This is the moment where the soup starts feeling truly luxurious and satisfying.
Step 4: Add the Spinach
Finally, stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes until they have wilted into the hot broth. The bright green leaves add a burst of freshness and nutrition that rounds out the dish perfectly.
How to Serve Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The magic finishing touch for this Tortellini Soup Recipe is a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It melts slightly into the hot soup, lending a savory, nutty layer of flavor. If you want to brighten things up and add a fresh pop of color, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top. It looks beautiful and adds a subtle herbaceous note.
Side Dishes
This soup shines brilliantly on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a simple baguette is pure comfort food bliss. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables also harmonize beautifully, adding variety in texture and freshness for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in mini bread bowls to make it extra special and kid-friendly. You can also drizzle a bit of good-quality extra virgin olive oil or even a splash of cream on top for a silky finish. Adding some cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken before serving transforms this into a heartier meal that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Tortellini Soup Recipe leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or simply enjoying a quick and satisfying lunch the next day. Keep the soup tightly covered to retain its fresh flavors.
Freezing
While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that tortellini’s texture might change slightly upon thawing. To minimize this, freeze the soup without the tortellini, then cook fresh tortellini to add after reheating. Store frozen soup in labeled airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat your Tortellini Soup Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup is too thick after reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.
FAQs
Can I make this Tortellini Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and verify that the cheese tortellini does not contain any animal rennet. This version is both hearty and fully vegetarian-friendly.
What type of tortellini works best?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini is recommended for this soup because it cooks quickly and melts delicately into the broth. However, store-bought frozen tortellini will work fine too; just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Can I add protein to the soup?
Yes! Adding cooked shredded chicken or slices of Italian sausage is a great way to boost protein and make the soup even more filling. Simply stir in the cooked meat when you add the spinach so it warms through.
Is it possible to make a creamy version?
Definitely! For a richer and creamier soup, stir in about 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking, right before serving. It adds a lovely velvety texture without overpowering the fresh flavors.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes when you add the Italian seasoning. You can also finish with a drizzle of spicy chili oil or a dash of hot sauce to taste.
Final Thoughts
There is truly nothing quite like a steaming bowl of this Tortellini Soup Recipe to lift your spirits and satisfy your hunger. Its wonderful combination of comforting pasta, fresh veggies, and bold Italian flavors makes it the perfect choice any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own cozy kitchen classic!
Print
Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This flavorful and comforting Tortellini Soup is a quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners. Made with tender cheese tortellini, fresh vegetables, Italian seasoning, and a savory broth, it’s a hearty and satisfying meal. Fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese add a delicious finish, while optional protein additions can make it even more filling. This Italian-inspired soup is great as a vegetarian option when prepared with vegetable broth.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Broth and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
Pasta and Garnish
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it releases its aroma but does not brown.
- Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the diced tomatoes, including their juice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, typically 5 to 7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Add Spinach: Stir in fresh spinach and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and evenly distributed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For added protein, include cooked shredded chicken or Italian sausage.
- To make the soup creamy, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking before serving.
- Using vegetable broth keeps this soup vegetarian.
- Adjust seasoning to taste depending on the saltiness of your broth.
