Name: Tomato Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 0.5 medium onion, chopped; 1 clove garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 cups chicken broth or veggie broth; 1 28 fluid ounce can diced tomatoes with juices; 1 28 fluid ounce can crushed tomatoes with juices; 0.25 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed); 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini; Salt & pepper (to taste); 1 small handful fresh basil (optional, to taste)

Introduction to Tomato Tortellini Soup

Why Tomato Tortellini Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food

When chilly days arrive, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of tomato tortellini soup to wrap you in comfort. This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Imagine cozying up on your couch, a steaming bowl in hand, as the rich aroma of tomatoes and herbs fills the air. Pure bliss, right?

What makes this soup truly special? First, the combination of cheesy tortellini and a creamy, tomato-based broth creates the perfect balance of flavors. The tortellini adds a satisfying heartiness, while the tomatoes provide a tangy brightness that elevates the taste. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend indulgence.

Ingredients like fresh basil and a touch of Italian seasoning bring the dish to life, ensuring each bite is bursting with flavor. The warmth of this soup wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Trust us; once you try this tomato tortellini soup, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.

For more wholesome recipes that warm the soul, check out the Food Network or Bon Appétit.

Ingredients for Tomato Tortellini Soup

Essential ingredients for hearty soup

To whip up a delicious bowl of Tomato Tortellini Soup, you’ll need some basic ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
½ medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups chicken broth (or veggie broth for a vegetarian twist)
1 (28 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
1 (28 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes with juices
¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
2 cups refrigerated cheese tortellini
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful base that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Optional ingredients to elevate flavor

If you want to take your tomato tortellini soup to the next level, consider adding:

A handful of fresh basil for a burst of freshness
A dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top before serving
Squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors

These optional ingredients can add depth and complexity, making your soup even more delightful. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make it your own! For more cooking tips, explore this handy resource or check out a guide on making the perfect soup.

Preparing Tomato Tortellini Soup

Making a warm bowl of tomato tortellini soup is an excellent way to bring comfort into your home, especially on chilly evenings. Follow these easy steps and you'll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time!

Sauté the aromatics

Start your soup by sautéing the aromatics. In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, toss in half a chopped medium onion. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it turns translucent and aromatic. This step is crucial, as onions deepen the flavor base of your soup. After the onions are nice and tender, stir in 1 minced clove of garlic and 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook for an additional minute to allow the garlic to release its fragrant oils—this will elevate the flavor profile of your tomato tortellini soup beautifully.

Create the soup base

Next, it’s time to create the soup base. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer) to ensure the flour dissolves completely. Stir until your mixture is smooth. This will form the backbone of your soup. From here, you want to introduce your star ingredients!

Add in the tomatoes and cream

To build rich, comforting flavors, add in the tomatoes and cream. Pour in one 28-ounce can of diced tomatoes with their juices and one 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes, along with ¼ teaspoon of Italian seasoning for that authentic Italian flair. Don’t forget to sweeten it up a bit with 1 tablespoon of packed brown sugar—this balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Finally, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream to create a luscious, creamy texture that makes each spoonful irresistible. At this stage, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Incorporate the tortellini

Once your soup is boiling, it’s time to incorporate the tortellini. Add 2 cups of refrigerated cheese tortellini into the bubbling pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is where those lovely pasta squares soak up the fantastic flavors from the broth!

Season and serve

Finally, it’s time to season and serve your delicious creation. Taste your tomato tortellini soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. For an extra freshness, you can tear a small handful of fresh basil and stir it in just a few minutes before serving. This adds a lovely aromatic touch!

Now, ladle your soup into bowls, garnish as desired, and enjoy the warmth of this delightful dish. The blend of creamy broth and cheesy tortellini makes for a heartwarming dinner. Happy cooking!

Variations on Tomato Tortellini Soup

Spinach and Tomato Tortellini Soup

For a delightful twist, consider adding fresh spinach to your tomato tortellini soup. Just toss in a couple of handfuls of baby spinach when the soup is nearly finished cooking. The spinach adds a nutritious boost and vibrant color, making your dish not only healthier but visually appealing too. You could also sauté the spinach with the onions to deepen the flavors.

Spicy Tomato Tortellini Soup

If you crave a little heat, try my spicy version of tomato tortellini soup. Simply add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. This not only elevates the flavor but also warms you from the inside out! For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or Italian sausage for a meatier option.

Experiment with these variations and discover your favorite twist!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Tomato Tortellini Soup

Perfecting Your Soup

Making tomato tortellini soup is a breeze with a few handy tips! First, sautéing the onions and garlic thoroughly enhances the flavor base; don’t rush this step. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing.

Customizing Your Ingredients

Feel free to customize your soup! You can use low-sodium broth for a healthier option, or try switching up the tortellini with different flavors, like spinach or mushroom. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before adding the tortellini.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the right consistency. Want more tips? Check out Healthy Eating and The Kitchn for more ideas on soups and cozy meals!

Serving suggestions for Tomato Tortellini Soup

Best side dishes to pair

Pair your tomato tortellini soup with simple yet appetizing side dishes to elevate your meal. A fresh arugula salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette can add a delightful crunch. Alternatively, warm, crusty garlic bread or cheesy focaccia are perfect for dipping and soaking up that delicious broth. For a heartier option, consider a side of roasted vegetables, which not only offer flavor but also color to your plate.

Creative garnishes to enhance presentation

Impress your guests by adding some creative garnishes to your tomato tortellini soup. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can introduce a wonderful depth of flavor. Consider adding a drizzle of olive oil or a swirl of heavy cream for an elegant touch. Fresh basil leaves or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes can bring in vibrant colors and added zest. Not only do these garnishes make your soup look appealing, but they can also enhance the overall taste experience!

Time Breakdown for Tomato Tortellini Soup

Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your tomato tortellini soup takes about 10 minutes. This includes chopping your onion, mincing garlic, and gathering your ingredients.

Cooking Time
The magic happens in 25 minutes! That’s when flavors meld beautifully as you sauté and simmer everything together.

Total Time
In just 35 minutes, you’ll have a wholesome, comforting bowl of soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a busy evening or a cozy weekend meal!

Nutritional Facts for Tomato Tortellini Soup

Understanding the nutritional profile of Tomato Tortellini Soup can elevate your cooking experience and meal planning. Here's a quick breakdown of what you can expect in every comforting bowl.

Calories

Per serving, this delicious soup contains approximately 350 calories. It’s hearty enough to satisfy your hunger while still being a wholesome choice.

Protein

With around 15 grams of protein per serving, the cheese tortellini plays a crucial role in making this soup not just tasty but also a great source of energy, perfect for a busy day.

Sodium

On average, this soup contains about 800 milligrams of sodium per serving. To manage your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth or omitting added salt when cooking.

By balancing these nutritional facts, you can enjoy your warm bowl of Tomato Tortellini Soup while aligning with your health goals. For more insights on making nutritious choices, check out Healthline's nutrition articles.

FAQs about Tomato Tortellini Soup

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This tomato tortellini soup can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

What type of tortellini works best?

For this soup, I recommend using refrigerated cheese tortellini, as it cooks quickly and has a delightful texture. You can also opt for frozen tortellini if that’s what you have on hand — just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!

How can I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is easy! Simply let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it into an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to three months. Remember to leave some space in the container, as the soup may expand when frozen.

For more tips on soup storage, check out The Kitchn's guide.

Conclusion on Tomato Tortellini Soup

In summary, this delightful tomato tortellini soup is not just easy to prepare but also a comforting dish that warms the soul. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a cozy weekend treat, it’s certain to become a household favorite. So grab your ingredients and enjoy a bowlful of happiness!