Save This velvety soup combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich tomato base simmered alongside aromatic Italian herbs. Sautéed onions, carrots, and celery add a gentle sweetness and depth, while a splash of cream and Parmesan cheese enhances the texture and flavor. Perfectly balanced and comforting, it's ideal for a quick and satisfying warm meal any time of year.
Discovering Creamy Tomato and Tortellini Soup was like finding a warm hug in a bowl on a chilly evening. The rich tomato broth combined with tender cheese-filled tortellini instantly became a staple, reminding me how simple ingredients can create magic in the kitchen.
I remember the first time unexpected guests arrived and I whipped up this soup in just under 35 minutes. Their eyes lit up at the rich flavors and cozy feel, turning a last-minute dinner into a cherished memory.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: I always reach for good quality extra virgin olive oil for that subtle fruitiness which lifts the whole soup
- Yellow onion: finely chopped to melt gently and create a sweet aromatic base
- Garlic: minced fresh garlic is key to layering flavor without overpowering
- Carrot and celery: diced small to soften quickly and add natural sweetness
- Crushed tomatoes: canned works best for consistent acidity and texture
- Tomato paste: boosts rich tomato flavor and depth
- Vegetable broth: choose a quality one or homemade for real soul
- Cheese tortellini: refrigerated for convenience and melty cheese goodness
- Heavy cream: adds velvety richness but can be swapped for plant cream
- Parmesan cheese: freshly grated for the best nutty finish
- Dried basil and oregano: classic Italian herbs that bring warmth to every spoonful
- Red pepper flakes: optional but they give a subtle kick that awakens the palate
- Salt and black pepper: to taste and balance all flavors
- Fresh basil: chopped for garnish, always the star finishing touch
Instructions
- Get Everything Ready:
- Gather all your ingredients close by so the cooking flow is smooth and you won>t miss a beat
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil over medium heat and add chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and smell sweet, filling your kitchen with cozy aromas
- Add Garlic and Tomato Paste:
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant, then mix in tomato paste, letting it cook for another minute to deepen the flavors
- Combine Liquids and Herbs:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring this to a gentle boil, the bubbling adds anticipation
- Simmer and Meld Flavors:
- Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes, the aromas will blend beautifully as the flavors deepen
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Add the cheese tortellini and cook as the package directs, usually 4 to 6 minutes, until tender but with a slight bite
- Finish with Cream and Cheese:
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, letting the soup warm through until velvety smooth and glossy
- Adjust and Serve:
- Taste, adjust seasoning, ladle into bowls, and garnish generously with fresh basil for the finishing touch
Save This soup quickly became more than just a meal; it became a cozy tradition for weekend lunches with family, celebrated with laughter and second helpings.
Keeping It Fresh
Always save a handful of fresh basil to add just before serving – it keeps the flavors lively and the soup feeling homemade even after reheating.
When You're Missing Something
If you find your soup a bit thin, a quick trick is to simmer for a few extra minutes uncovered to concentrate those flavors without losing richness.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a crisp green salad to balance the creamy richness.
- Don> forget to warm your bowls for an extra cozy experience
- Oh wait, one more thing: a sprinkle of Parmesan right at the table never hurts
- Finish with a drizzle of good olive oil for a silky, luxurious touch
Save Thanks for sharing your time in the kitchen with me; may this soup warm your home as much as it did mine.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How long does it take to prepare the dish?
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Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes of cooking time, totaling approximately 35 minutes.
- → Can I use different types of tortellini?
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Yes, you can substitute cheese tortellini with meat or spinach varieties to suit your preference.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
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Dried basil and oregano lend traditional Italian flavor, while fresh basil used as a garnish adds a vibrant finish.
- → Is there a way to make the broth richer?
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Blending part of the tomato broth before adding the tortellini creates a thicker, creamier texture.
- → Can this be made dairy-free?
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Yes, by using plant-based cream alternatives, omitting Parmesan, and choosing vegan tortellini options, it can be made dairy-free.
