Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stirred the pot on a brisk evening, the aromatic warmth enveloped me like a cozy blanket. This is the magic of my Creamy Tortellini Soup, a dish that effortlessly blends the heartiness of tender cheese tortellini with vibrant spinach, all swimming in a luxuriously creamy broth. Perfect for anyone seeking a quick prep weeknight meal, this recipe serves as the ultimate comfort food to chase away the chill. Not only is it vegetarian-friendly, but it also boasts flavors so rich and deep that you’ll forget all about takeout. How about we dive into the deliciousness and create a bowl of this delightful soup together? Why is Tortellini Soup a Must-Try? Comforting warmth: This creamy tortellini soup embraces you like a cherished hug on cold nights. Quick prep: With minimal time investment, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. Vegetarian delight: Packed with vibrant spinach and cheese tortellini, it’s a dish everyone will love, regardless of their dietary preferences. Endless variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins, tailoring it to your taste just like in my Pot Cheeseburger Soup or Peanut Sweet Potato. Crowd pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this soup is sure to impress! Tortellini Soup Ingredients For the Base • Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables effectively. • Butter – Enhances the creaminess of the broth. • Onion (½, chopped) – Provides a foundational flavor base that adds depth. • Leek (1, white and light green part, chopped) – Adds a mild onion flavor and subtle complexity. • Celery (1 stalk, chopped) – Contributes to the aromatic flavor profile of the soup. • Garlic (3 cloves, chopped) – Infuses the soup with its fragrant aroma delightfully. For the Broth • Crushed Tomatoes (1 cup) – Forms the base of the soup, providing acidity and sweetness. • Vegetable Stock (4 cups) – Acts as the liquid foundation, enhancing the overall flavor. For the Tortellini • Tortellini (12 ounces, cheese) – The main ingredient, offering heartiness and texture. For Creaminess • Heavy Whipping Cream (½ cup) – Adds a velvety texture to the soup, elevating its comfort level. For Freshness • Spinach (2 cups) – Introduces a pop of color and essential nutrients, balancing the richness of the soup. • Basil (for garnish) – Adds fresh flavor and a delightful presentation. • Pepper (for garnish) – Enhances taste with a mild kick, perfect for a comforting bowl of tortellini soup. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tortellini Soup Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped onion, leek, celery, and garlic, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. This forms a flavorful base for your creamy tortellini soup. Step 2: Build the Broth Stir in 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and let it cook for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors, stirring occasionally. Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable stock, stirring well. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching as it bubbles and froths, which signals that it’s ready for the next step. Step 3: Simmer for Flavor Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the broth simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. This process allows the flavors to deepen beautifully while the aromas fill your kitchen. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking on the bottom of the pot, ensuring a rich and flavorful broth for your tortellini soup. Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach As the broth simmers, add 12 ounces of cheese tortellini and 2 cups of fresh spinach to the pot. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, typically around 3-5 minutes, until they are tender and floating. The spinach should wilt down, creating a vibrant green color that enhances the visual appeal of your creamy tortellini soup. Step 5: Stir in the Cream Once the tortellini are cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Continue to mix until the cream is fully incorporated, creating that luscious, velvety texture in your soup. This step elevates your dish, making it incredibly comforting and indulgent—perfect for chilly nights. Step 6: Serve with Garnish Ladle the tortellini soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper. The bright colors and aromatic garnishes not only enhance the presentation but also add layers of flavor, making your creamy tortellini soup irresistible and ready to warm your soul. Make Ahead Options These Creamy Tortellini Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort. You can chop the vegetables (onion, leek, celery, and garlic) and refrigerate them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and crisp. Additionally, the broth can be fully prepared and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours; just reheat it on the stove before adding the tortellini and spinach. When ready to serve, cook the tortellini according to package instructions and stir in the heavy cream for that velvety texture. This way, you’ll have a comforting bowl of tortellini soup ready in no time! Expert Tips for Creamy Tortellini Soup Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh spinach and basil for a vibrant flavor boost and beautiful presentation. Dried alternatives can’t match this taste! Cook Time Accuracy: Be mindful not to overcook the tortellini; they should be tender but firm, maintaining that perfect texture in your creamy tortellini soup. Adjust Creaminess: Want a richer soup? Feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream according to your personal preference. Just remember, a little goes a long way! Simmering Secrets: Don’t skip the simmering step! Allowing the broth to simmer for a full 30 minutes enhances the flavors beautifully, creating a depth that ensures satisfaction. Alternate Pasta Options: If you can’t find tortellini, consider using other pasta shapes like shells or elbows. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for a quick and easy meal! Tortellini Soup Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste buds and dietary needs! Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini or any gluten-free pasta varieties for a wholesome alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavors guilt-free! Creamy Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut milk or a blend of cashews and water for a vegan-friendly, creamy texture that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The result will still be luscious and scrumptious, perfect for a chilly night. Extra Veggie Boost: Incorporate diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers to enhance your soup’s nutritional value. These additions not only add color but also contribute delightful flavors, making the dish even more hearty. Add Protein: For a heartier option, mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or beans to add an extra protein punch. This transformation will not only fill you up but also create a beautiful medley of flavors that will surprise your taste buds. Flavorful Twist: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for an herby kick. This simple tweak can elevate the soup, reminiscent of a warm Italian kitchen full of comforting fragrances. Spicy Kick: If you crave some heat, stir in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. This fiery element can awaken your senses and turn your soup into a delightful culinary adventure. Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Introduce sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tangy flavor that complements the creamy broth splendidly. They’re a delightful twist that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your bowl. Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta on top just before serving. It’s an extra luxurious touch that enhances the creaminess and offers an irresistible finish. As you embark on this culinary journey, remember that each choice you make can transform this comforting dish into something uniquely yours. For more delightful soup ideas, check out my Slow Cooker Soup or find inspiration with the comforting Peanut Sweet Potato. Happy cooking! How to Store and Freeze Tortellini Soup Fridge: Store the creamy tortellini soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: Allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Remember to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat. If the soup is too thick after freezing, add some vegetable stock or cream to restore its creamy broth consistency. Thawing: For best results, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This helps to maintain the texture and flavors of your tortellini soup. What to Serve with Creamy Tortellini Soup? This delightful dish is just the beginning of a comforting meal that will evoke warmth and coziness on every chilly evening. Crusty French Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crunchy exterior and soft interior of the bread perfectly complement the creamy richness of the soup. Caprese Salad: Bright and refreshing, this vibrant salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds a burst of flavor and elevates your dining experience. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and fragrant, these homemade delights are irresistible next to the soup, allowing you to soak up every drop of the luscious broth. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and classic Caesar dressing provide a crunchy contrast to the smooth tortellini, balancing your meal beautifully. Roasted Vegetables: The caramelized sweetness and earthy flavors of vegetables like carrots and zucchini bring a nutritious element, enhancing the overall heartiness. Pinot Grigio: This light white wine offers refreshing acidity and complements the flavors in the soup wonderfully, making it a delightful pairing choice. Lemon Sorbet: A light and zesty dessert to cleanse the palate after a rich soup, ensuring a refreshing finish to your meal. Each of these pairings creates a complete dining experience that highlights the comforting nature of your creamy tortellini soup. Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe vegetables for the soup? Absolutely! When selecting onions and leeks, look for firm and unblemished skin. For the freshest spinach, choose leaves that are vibrant green without wilting or yellowing. Avoid any vegetables with dark spots all over, as these can affect the flavor and quality of your soup. How do I store leftover tortellini soup? After serving, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To ensure maximum quality, always cool thoroughly before sealing to prevent condensation from diluting flavors. Can I freeze creamy tortellini soup? Certainly! To freeze your soup, allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture. What should I do if my tortellini is overcooked? If your tortellini becomes overcooked and mushy, there’s still hope! For the future, keep a close eye on the cooking time and follow the package instructions closely—usually around 3-5 minutes is just right. If you end up with a mushy texture, consider blending the soup to create a creamy purée, or add some fresh uncooked tortellini for a bit of texture contrast. Is this pasta soup suitable for my vegetarian diet? Very! This creamy tortellini soup is a delightful vegetarian dish, filled with nutritious spinach and decadent cheese tortellini. However, to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences, double-check that your tortellini doesn’t contain meat products. Additionally, you can easily make it vegan by swapping the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative! Creamy Tortellini Soup for Cozy Nights In No ratings yet This Creamy Tortellini Soup is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly nights, blending tender cheese tortellini, vibrant spinach, and a luxuriously creamy broth. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsTotal Time 50 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: SoupCuisine: ItalianCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Base2 tablespoons Olive Oil Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables effectively.1 tablespoon Butter Enhances the creaminess of the broth.0.5 Onion Chopped1 Leek Chopped, use white and light green part.1 stalk Celery Chopped3 cloves Garlic ChoppedFor the Broth1 cup Crushed Tomatoes Forms the base of the soup, providing acidity and sweetness.4 cups Vegetable Stock Acts as the liquid foundation.For the Tortellini12 ounces Tortellini Cheese, main ingredient.For Creaminess0.5 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Adds a velvety texture.For Freshness2 cups Spinach Introduces color and nutrients.Basil For garnishPepper For garnish Equipment large pot Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add the chopped onion, leek, celery, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.Stir in 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Next, pour in 4 cups of vegetable stock and bring to a gentle boil.Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let the broth simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.Add 12 ounces of cheese tortellini and 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook tortellini according to package instructions, around 3-5 minutes.Stir in ½ cup of heavy whipping cream and mix until fully incorporated.Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and cracked pepper. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg NotesUse fresh ingredients for best flavor. Adjust creaminess and cooking times based on preferences. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
