Name: Creamy Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil.; 1 Tablespoon butter.; 1 onion, diced.; 2 cloves garlic, minced.; Pinch crushed red pepper flakes, to taste.; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour.; 3 cups vegetable broth.; 14.5 ounce can diced tomatoes.; 8 ounces tomato sauce.; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil.; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning.; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.; 8 ounces cheese tortellini (refrigerated kind).; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese.; 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach leaves, packed.; 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half.; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped.

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. It combines tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and flavorful herbs like basil and Italian seasoning, all in a rich, creamy broth. With a base of vegetable broth and tomatoes, this soup has a deliciously balanced flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying. The fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese add richness, while a touch of cream makes this soup velvety smooth. Garnish with chopped basil for a pop of freshness and enjoy with crusty bread for dipping.

This Creamy Tortellini Soup is rich, comforting, and loaded with cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and flavorful herbs. It’s the perfect cozy dinner for any night of the week.

INGREDIENTS

Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing the onion and garlic.
Butter: 1 tablespoon, to add richness to the soup.
Onion: 1 medium, diced, for a flavorful base.
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, to bring out bold flavor.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Pinch, for a bit of heat (optional).
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup, to thicken the soup.
Vegetable Broth: 3 cups, to create the base of the soup.
Diced Tomatoes: 14.5-ounce can, for a rich tomato flavor.
Tomato Sauce: 8 ounces, to add depth and flavor.
Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon, for a blend of herbs.
Dried Basil: 1/2 teaspoon, for extra herbaceous notes.
Cheese Tortellini: 8 ounces (refrigerated), for the heart of the dish.
Fresh Spinach: 1 1/2 cups, packed, for a burst of color and nutrition.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated, for added richness.
Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup, for a creamy, velvety texture.
Fresh Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped, for garnish and freshness.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Heat the olive oil and butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until softened.
Step 2:: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes (optional) and the flour, cooking for 1 minute to form a roux.
Step 3:: Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4:: Add the cheese tortellini to the soup and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
Step 5:: Remove the soup from heat and stir in the fresh spinach, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the soup.
Step 6:: Garnish with chopped fresh basil and serve warm. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve this soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for added flavor.
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to thin it out.

Helpful Notes

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you prefer a lighter soup.
For added protein, consider adding cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken to the soup.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Giada De Laurentiis recommends using fresh, refrigerated tortellini for the best flavor and texture.
Ina Garten suggests using freshly grated Parmesan for a richer, more robust flavor.
Chef Mario Batali advises adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for a hint of acidity and balance.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with cheesy tortellini, making it a perfect cozy dinner.
The combination of spinach, tomatoes, and fresh herbs adds a fresh, vibrant flavor to the creamy broth.
It’s easy to make in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

VARIATIONS

For a vegetarian version, omit the Parmesan or use a vegetarian alternative.
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for extra vegetables and texture.
Swap the cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom tortellini for a different twist on the classic.