Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Introduction
Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort dish, combining the richness of a cheesy base with the tanginess of tomatoes and the hearty wholesomeness of tortellini. This recipe is perfect for cold evenings or anytime you crave something warm, filling, and delicious. It is easy to prepare, making it a go-to favorite for families or anyone seeking a quick yet satisfying meal.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– Cheese tortellini, 10 ounces
– Butter, 2 tablespoons
– Onion, finely diced, 1 medium
– Garlic cloves, minced, 4
– Crushed tomatoes, canned, 28 ounces
– Vegetable broth, 4 cups
– Heavy cream or half-and-half, 1 cup
– Shredded cheese blend, 2 cups of your choice
– Salt to taste
– Pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh basil, optional for garnish
Prep Time
The prep time for this delectable soup is approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you can dice the onions, mince the garlic, and gather all your ingredients to ensure a seamless cooking process.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
This Cheesy Tomato Tortellini Soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that delivers rich flavors in no time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or family and friends, this dish is sure to become a cherished favorite.
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Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
– Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside.
– Chop the basil into small pieces for garnishing later.
– Open the cans of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste, and set them aside.
Cook the Base of the Soup
– Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
– Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent (about 3-5 minutes).
– Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
– Add the tomato paste to the pot and mix well. Cook it for about 1-2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
Add Liquids and Seasonings
– Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well to combine everything.
– Slowly add the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring the consistency is smooth.
– Mix in the seasonings: oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the flavors.
Simmer the Soup
– Turn the heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Blend the Soup
– Use an immersion blender to process the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Be cautious with the hot liquid.
Cook the Tortellini
– Bring the blended soup back to medium heat. Add the tortellini directly into the soup and cook according to the package instructions (typically 7-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.
Add the Cheese and Cream
– Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is smooth.
Taste and Adjust
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add additional salt, pepper, or Parmesan if desired.
Garnish and Serve
– Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Adjusting Consistency
– If the soup is too thick, add extra broth or water until your desired consistency is reached.
Substitute the Proteins
– You can use meat-filled tortellini or other stuffed pasta to add a protein element.
Dairy-Free Option
– Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Storage
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Freezing
– The soup base (without the tortellini) freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw, reheat, and cook fresh tortellini when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Cook Techniques
Preparing the Vegetables
Begin by dicing the onions and mincing the garlic finely. These will create the flavorful base of the soup.
Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat a large pot and sauté the onions and garlic in olive oil until they are soft and fragrant. This enhances the depth of flavor.
Adding the Tomatoes
Incorporate canned tomatoes into the pot, allowing them to simmer and combine with the aromatics. This step builds the soup’s rich tomato foundation.
Blending the Base
If a smoother texture is desired, use an immersion blender to blend the tomato and onion mixture until it reaches a creamy consistency.
Incorporating the Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth gradually, stirring to combine. This helps to thin out the soup to the preferred consistency.
Cooking the Tortellini
Place the uncooked tortellini directly into the simmering soup, letting them cook through as they absorb the surrounding flavors.
Adding the Heavy Cream
Stir in heavy cream slowly to achieve the signature creamy texture of the soup, ensuring it is well-mixed for a velvety finish.
Melting the Cheese
Fold in shredded cheese, allowing it to melt completely into the soup for a rich and cheesy flavor profile.
Seasoning the Soup
Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes according to personal taste preferences.
Serving and Garnishing
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, to enhance the presentation and flavor.
FAQ
What type of tortellini is best for the soup?
Cheese-filled tortellini works best as it complements the creaminess and richness of the soup.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used, but they should be peeled, seeded, and cooked down to achieve a similar consistency as canned tomatoes.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make it completely vegetarian.
How can I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool fully and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is best to exclude the tortellini before freezing, as they can become overly soft when reheated.
What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or coconut milk can be used as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to avoid curdling the cream.
What type of cheese should I use?
Shredded Parmesan or a cheese blend that melts well is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to the soup?
Yes, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach, kale, or diced carrots for extra nutrition.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the soup in advance, but it’s best to cook the tortellini just before serving for optimal texture.
Conclusion
This cheesy tomato tortellini soup is a comforting and delicious option that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. It’s an ideal blend of creamy tomato broth, cheesy tortellini, and a hint of seasoning to make it a satisfying meal. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or just craving something warm and hearty, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Classic Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Pair this soup with a crispy grilled cheese sandwich for a classic and irresistible combination. The cheesy, buttery sandwich complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Serve alongside freshly baked garlic bread or breadsticks for a crunchy and savory addition to this creamy soup.
Caesar Salad
A fresh Caesar salad on the side provides a crisp and refreshing balance to the richness of the tortellini soup.
Homemade Croutons
Top your soup with homemade croutons for an added crunch and a burst of flavor in every bite.
Roasted Vegetables
Enjoy the soup with a side of roasted vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for a healthy and colorful meal.
Crostini with Pesto
Make crostini with a spread of pesto and serve it on the side for an herby and aromatic pairing with the soup.
Spinach and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
For a creative side, serve stuffed mushrooms filled with spinach and cheese to enhance the cheesy notes of the soup.
Caprese Salad
A simple caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil pairs well with this soup for a light and flavorful side dish.
Parmesan Crisps
Create crispy Parmesan chips to use as a topping or snack on the side, adding extra cheesy goodness to your meal.
Italian Sausage Links
Add some protein by serving Italian sausage links, either grilled or sautéed, as a savory complement to the soup.
