Name: Tuscan Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Olive oil; 1 medium Onion, chopped; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 cup Sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped; 5 cups Chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Dried oregano; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper; 9 ounces Cheese tortellini; 5 ounces Fresh spinach

What is my go-to comfort food? Creamy Tuscan Tortellini Soup. Is it like a hug in the bowl? What’s your take on Zuppa Toscana, but with pillowy tortellini? Is this recipe ridiculously easy? My family devours it every single time I make it. I’ve made it so often I literally dream about it!Tuscan Tortellini Soup: HowIs a lifesaver on those nights when you’re craving something warm and satisfying but don’t want to leave. I spend hours in the kitchen. Is it better to eat the next day? What is a super simple yet delicious meal? Is there a way to trust me on this one?

What is Tuscan Tortellini Soup?

Essentially, Tuscan Tortellini Soup: Whatis a creamy, tomato-based soup bursting with Italian flavors. Think of it as a simplified, cozier version of the Tuscan stew. The name comes from the inspiration – it mimics the taste of the Tuscan region with ingredients like tomatoes and peppers. Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Italian herbs. What is the real star of cheese tortellini? What is soup? Isn’t it a bowl full of comfort and Italian sunshine? I make this all year round because it’s so good. I remember the first time I made this – I was skeptical about the sun-dried tomatoes, but they add flavor. I’m not a fan of tomatoes. What is that depth of flavor you just can’t replicate?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

How do I love this girl?Tuscan Tortellini Soup: WhatWhat are some of the best recipes? We’re talking creamy tomato broth infused with garlic, herbs, and those umami-rich sun-dried tomatoes. What I love about this is how easy it is to make. Is it embarrassing how little effort it takes? I can whip this up even on the busiest weeknights, and everyone is always happy. What are some great ways to sneak in extra veggies? What happens when spinach wilts right in? My kids actually ask for seconds, which is a minor miracle in itself. Is it also incredibly cost effective? Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, and you can easily customize it based on what you have. And the versatility! Can you add shredded chicken, Italian sausage, or even different types of beans to bulk it up? I like to throw in a can of cannellini beans for extra protein. It’s so adaptable. I like minestrone. It’s similar in ease to my go-to but with a totally different flavor profile – sometimes I have to try it myself. What are some good recipes for a creamy tomato base?Tuscan Tortellini Soup: AIs a winner for its flavor, simplicity, cost, and adaptability. You really can’t go wrong!

How do I make Tuscan Tortellini Soup?

Quick Overview

Making this Tuscan Tortellini Soup. Tuscancan be as simple as sautéing some aromatics, adding your liquids and seasonings to a pot, simmering, and then removing the liquid from the pot. Is it good to throw in spinach and tortellini at the end? How do I get this recipe right without a master chef? The ingredients work together beautifully, and the simple steps result in a complex and satisfying meal. What is the best way to cook a tortellini? How do you hold your shape? How do I know if everything comes together in a day?

Ingredients

For the Soup Base: For a soup base
* 1 tablespoon olive oil – adds a nice richness and helps to sauté the vegetables.
* 1 yellow onion, chopped – provides a savory base.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic Italian flavor.
* 4 cups chicken broth – I always use low-sodium so I can control the saltiness.
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – these add acidity and texture.
* 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce – helps to thicken the soup and adds sweetness.
* 1/2 cup heavy cream – this is what makes the soup super creamy and decadent. If you’re feeling lighter, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be quite as rich. I’ve tried it with almond milk, and it was surprisingly good!
* 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped – don’t skip these! They add a ton of flavor.
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – brings all the Italian flavors together.
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a little kick.
* Salt and pepper to taste – season to your liking!

For the Tortellini & Finishing Touches:
* 20 ounces cheese tortellini, fresh or frozen – I usually use the refrigerated kind, but frozen kind. Just add a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
* 5 ounces fresh spinach – adds color, nutrients, and a slight earthy flavor.
What is Italian food without Parmesan cheese?

How do I follow step

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped parsley and stir to combine. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do I burn garlic? How do I build a flavor base?

Step 2: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, heavy cream, and sun-dried tomatoes. What is the best Italian seasoning to use? Where do all the flavors start to meld together? I always give it a taste at this point and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Simmer

How do I cook soup? Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to fully develop. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be, but 15 minutes is usually enough for a full stomach. What is a week

Step 4: Add the Tortellini

Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes. What is the best way to cook a tortellini for 30 minutes? If you’re using frozen tortellini, it may take a little longer. If you overcook them, they will get mushy. I’ve made that mistake before.

Step 5: Wilt the Spinach

Add the spinach to the pot and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. Is spinach healthy? Plus, it practically disappears into the soup, so even picky eaters won’t complain!

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.Tuscan Tortellini Soup: WhatIs Parmesan cheese a good topping for supper? I sometimes add a dollop of ricotta cheese or fresh basil for extra flair. Enjoy!

What should I serve it with?

This Tuscan Tortellini Soup. TuscanIs it satisfying on its own, but it’s even better with a few simple sides?For a Light Lunch: What are some good options Serve with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances the richness of the soup perfectly.

For a Hearty Dinner: Crusty bread is a must for soaking up all that delicious broth! I love serving it with garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.

For a Special Occasion: A glass of crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors of the soup beautifully.

For a Cozy Night In: Honestly? Just grab a bowl and curl up on the couch. No sides needed! This soup is pure comfort food, and sometimes that’s all you need. My family also loves this Tuscan Tortellini Soup with a side of grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping. Don’t judge, it’s delicious!

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Tuscan Tortellini Soup

Okay, so I’ve made this Tuscan Tortellini Soup countless times, and I’ve learned a few tricks along the way to make it absolutely perfect:

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: This is crucial! Overcooked tortellini will become mushy and disintegrate in the soup. Cook them just until they’re tender and heated through. Follow the package directions closely.

Use Good Quality Chicken Broth: The flavor of the chicken broth really shines through in this soup, so use the best quality you can find. I prefer low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness.

Don’t Skip the Sun-Dried Tomatoes: They add a ton of flavor and umami to the soup. Make sure to use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped.

Adjust the Seasoning to Your Liking: Taste the soup at the end and adjust the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your preference.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon Juice: A little bit of lemon juice brightens up the flavors of the soup and adds a nice tang. I usually add a squeeze right before serving.

Make It Your Own: This recipe is super versatile, so feel free to customize it to your liking. Add shredded chicken, Italian sausage, or different types of beans. You can also swap out the spinach for kale or other leafy greens. The possibilities are endless! I once accidentally used fire-roasted diced tomatoes and it gave the soup this amazing smoky flavor! Now I do it on purpose sometimes!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Tuscan Tortellini Soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months. However, the texture of the tortellini may change slightly after freezing and thawing. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags.

Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute or so to ensure even heating. I usually add a little bit of extra cream or broth when reheating to restore the creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can! Simply use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free. There are some great gluten-free tortellini options available now, so it’s an easy swap! I’ve found that the texture of the gluten-free tortellini can be a bit more delicate, so be extra careful not to overcook them.

Can I add meat to this soup?

Absolutely! Italian sausage or shredded chicken are both excellent additions. If using sausage, brown it in the pot before adding the onions and garlic. If using chicken, add it to the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat it through. I like to use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can, but be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup. Frozen spinach tends to release a lot of water, which can dilute the flavor of the soup. Use about half the amount of frozen spinach as you would fresh.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, but the soup won’t be quite as creamy. You can also try using a can of coconut milk for a dairy-free option. I’ve even used cashew cream before and it was surprisingly delicious and rich!

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Then, add all the other ingredients except for the tortellini and spinach. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the tortellini and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my go-to Tuscan Tortellini Soup recipe! It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or anytime you need a comforting bowl of soup. I truly believe that this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, and it’s sure to become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine.

If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes! I have a delicious creamy tomato soup and a hearty minestrone that you might enjoy.

Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends. And if you make any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!