Description: This Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a simple yet incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner. It’s budget-friendly and comes together quickly with just a handful of ingredients, proving that you don’t need a long list of items to create something truly delicious. The combination of cheesy tortellini, rich tomato broth, creamy cheese, and vibrant spinach makes for a comforting and nutritious soup that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans Italian-style diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or homemade garlic broth using Better than Bouillon Roasted Garlic)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 oz package of fresh spinach
- 9 oz package of cream cheese, softened
- 20 oz package of frozen cheese tortellini
- Freshly grated Romano cheese, for topping (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare Your Broth (if using Better than Bouillon): If opting for the enhanced garlic broth, prepare it according to the Better than Bouillon Roasted Garlic jar instructions. Typically, this involves mixing the concentrate with hot water until well dissolved. Taste and adjust the concentration as needed to achieve the desired level of garlic flavor. Remember to account for salt content when seasoning the final soup. If using premade vegetable broth, simply have it ready to pour.
Step 2: Sauté with Butter: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The butter will add richness and a luscious mouthfeel to the soup, complementing the acidity of the tomatoes and creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients comfortably.
Step 3: Introduce Tomatoes: Add the two cans of Italian-style diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot with the melted butter. Italian-style diced tomatoes are preferred for their added herbs and spices, which will contribute to the overall flavor profile of the soup. The juices from the can are essential for creating the base of the broth, so be sure to add them as well. Stir the tomatoes into the butter and let them simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld and deepen.
Step 4: Add Broth and Cream Cheese: Pour in the vegetable (or garlic) broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Then, add the softened cream cheese. Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that transforms this simple soup into a creamy, decadent delight. Make sure the cream cheese is softened beforehand to ensure it incorporates smoothly into the broth without clumping. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese is fully dissolved and the broth is smooth and creamy. This step may take a few minutes, so be patient and continue whisking until the desired consistency is achieved.
Step 5: Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly. Simmering the soup allows the flavors of the tomatoes, broth, and cream cheese to come together, creating a more cohesive and flavorful dish.
Step 6: Incorporate Tortellini: Add the frozen cheese tortellini to the pot. The tortellini will cook directly in the soup, absorbing the flavorful broth and becoming plump and tender. Stir gently to prevent the tortellini from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 7: Wilt Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the soup. The heat from the broth will quickly wilt the spinach, adding a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrients to the soup. Stir gently to incorporate the spinach evenly throughout the soup.
Step 8: Simmer Again: Continue to simmer the soup until the tortellini is cooked through and tender, about 5-7 minutes. The cooking time may vary depending on the brand and size of the tortellini, so be sure to check for doneness before proceeding.
Step 9: Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Be mindful of the salt content in the broth (especially if using Better than Bouillon), and adjust accordingly. If desired, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Why you will love this recipe
This Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a game-changer because it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. The flavor is surprisingly complex and delicious, even though it’s so simple. It’s budget-friendly, making it perfect for family dinners without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens with the spinach, and the leftovers taste even better the next day! The creamy texture is comforting and satisfying, making it a winner for both kids and adults. The simplicity of the recipe also means it’s easily customizable – you can add extra veggies, different types of cheese, or even some protein like cooked chicken or sausage. It’s a versatile and foolproof recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Romano cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh basil.
- Accompany with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken to the soup.
Tips:
- Use high-quality diced tomatoes for the best flavor. San Marzano tomatoes are a great choice.
- Do not overcook the tortellini, as they can become mushy. Cook just until tender.
- If you don’t have cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone cheese or heavy cream.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, ensure that the vegetable broth is vegetarian-friendly.
- If you want to make this soup even richer, you can add a splash of heavy cream at the end.
- For a thicker soup, blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the tortellini and spinach.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)
Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving Sodium: Approximately 800-1000 mg per serving (depending on broth and tomato brands)
Conclusion
This Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a testament to the fact that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated or expensive. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a hearty, comforting, and flavorful soup that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to warm you up on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to deliver. The creamy tomato broth, cheesy tortellini, and vibrant spinach create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, making this soup a true crowd-pleaser. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular on your menu!
Question and Answers about this recipe
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese besides cream cheese?
A: Absolutely! While cream cheese adds a unique tang and creaminess to the soup, you can definitely substitute it with other types of cheese. Mascarpone cheese is a great option for a similar texture and richness. You could also use heavy cream or half-and-half for a slightly less tangy but still creamy result. For a bolder flavor, consider using a shredded cheese like mozzarella or provolone, but be sure to stir it in slowly to prevent it from clumping.
Q2: How can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
A: To make this soup vegetarian, simply ensure that the vegetable broth you use is vegetarian-friendly. The recipe is already vegetarian, as it mainly consists of vegetables, cheese, and pasta. To make it vegan, you’ll need to replace the cream cheese and cheese tortellini with vegan alternatives. You can find vegan cream cheese at most grocery stores, and there are also vegan tortellini options available made with plant-based fillings.
Q3: Can I add protein to this soup?
A: Yes, adding protein is a great way to make this soup even more satisfying and nutritious! Cooked Italian sausage (removed from its casing), shredded cooked chicken, or even ground beef would be delicious additions. If you’re looking for a vegetarian protein option, consider adding white beans or chickpeas. Simply cook the protein separately, if needed, and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
Q4: How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
A: This soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. The pasta may absorb some of the broth over time, so you may need to add a little extra broth or water when reheating. It’s always best to reheat only the amount you plan to eat at one time to maintain the best texture.
Q5: Can I freeze this soup?
A: While you can freeze this soup, keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly after thawing. Pasta tends to become a bit softer when frozen and thawed. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Leave some headspace in the containers, as the soup will expand when frozen. When ready to eat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop. If the soup seems too thick after thawing, add a little broth or water to thin it out.
