Homemade Tortellini Soup Recipe

Homemade Tortellini Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender tortellini with a rich broth, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings. This comforting soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp thyme
• ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• 6 cups (1.5 liters) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• 2 cups fresh or frozen tortellini (cheese or meat-filled)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• ½ cup heavy cream for a creamy version
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

For Garnishing:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with juices).
2. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10–15 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Add Tortellini

1. Increase the heat to medium and add the tortellini to the soup.
2. Cook according to the package instructions (usually 3–5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8–10 minutes for frozen), until the pasta is tender.

Step 4: Add Spinach

1. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
2. For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream during the last 2 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Drizzle with olive oil or add a dollop of pesto for extra flavor.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Tortellini may become soft when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta and add fresh tortellini when reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Homemade Tortellini: If you’re ambitious, homemade tortellini will elevate this soup to the next level. Use your favorite fillings like cheese, spinach, or sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth and cheese tortellini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Protein Boost: Add cooked Italian sausage, shredded chicken, or white beans for extra protein.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

1. Giada De Laurentiis recommends using fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky depth of flavor.
2. Ina Garten suggests finishing the soup with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
3. Lidia Bastianich advises toasting the tortellini in olive oil for a few minutes before adding them to the soup for added texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dried tortellini?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

2. Can I make this soup creamy?

Absolutely! Add ½ cup of heavy cream or a splash of milk in Step 5 for a rich, creamy texture.

3. What’s the best tortellini for this soup?

Cheese tortellini is classic, but meat-filled or spinach varieties work well too.

4. Can I make this soup vegan?

Use vegan tortellini and replace the cheese with nutritional yeast. Opt for vegetable broth and plant-based cream for a creamy version.

5. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup is too thick.

6. What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, bell peppers, or peas are great additions for extra nutrients.

7. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen spinach before adding it to the soup.

8. What type of broth is best?

Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth works best to control the saltiness of the soup.

9. How can I make the soup spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

10. Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure your broth is gluten-free.