Name: Tortellini Meatball Soup Benefits
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef; 0.5 lb Ground pork; 1 cup Breadcrumbs; 1 egg Egg; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 12 oz Tortellini; 8 cups Chicken broth; 1 cup Chopped carrots; 1 cup Chopped celery; 0.5 cup Chopped onion

Okay, friends, let me tell you about a soup that’s basically a warm hug on a cold day: my Tortellini Meatball Soup. You know how everyone loves a good, classic tomato soup with grilled cheese? Well, this is like that, but kicked up a notch…or ten! It’s packed with cheesy tortellini, juicy little meatballs, and a rich, flavorful broth that just screams comfort. And honestly, the What are the benefits of tortellini meatball extend way beyond just feeling cozy. It’s surprisingly easy to throw together, even on those nights when you’re *this* close to ordering takeout. My grandma used to make something similar, and this is my attempt to recreate that magic. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies without the kids even noticing. This one’s a keeper, trust me.

What is Tortellini Meatball Soup?

Think of it as a hearty, Italian-inspired soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. It’s essentially a tomato-based broth brimming with cheese-filled tortellini and savory meatballs. The “broth” is really what sets it apart – it’s not just plain tomato juice. I like to build layers of flavor with sautéed vegetables, herbs, and sometimes even a splash of cream for extra richness. It’s a one-pot wonder, simple enough for weeknights, but impressive enough to serve to guests. Honestly, the name pretty much says it all! It’s just comforting food, plain and simple, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Where do I start? What are some of the best Tortellini Meatball Soups?flavor is insane. The combination of the savory meatballs, the cheesy tortellini, and the rich tomato broth is just…*chef’s kiss*. Then there’s the simplicity factor. Seriously, this soup comes together in under an hour, and most of that time is just letting it simmer and develop those amazing flavors. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. Ground Beef is relatively budget-friendly, and you can often find tortellini on sale. Plus, you can customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers. And lastly, it’s so versatileCan you double or triple this recipe to feed a crowd, or freeze leftovers for quick and easy meals? I used leftover pesto once and it was amazing. What I love most is that it’s a guaranteed hit with the whole family. Even my pickiest eater eats it up!

How do I make Tortellini Meatball Soup?

Quick Overview

Making this soup is easier than you think! Basically, you’ll start by sautéing some veggies for flavor, then add in your broth and seasonings. While that’s simmering, you’ll whip up some quick and easy meatballs. Once the meatballs are cooked, just toss them into the broth along with the tortellini, and let everything simmer until the tortellini is tender. It’s truly that simple! And honestly, the best part is that the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking – that’s the beauty of homemade soup!

Ingredients

For the Main Soup: What are some examples?
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 6 cups chicken broth (I prefer low sodium)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 9-12 ounces Refrigerated Three Cheese Tortellini.
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Meatballs:
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1/2 cup bread crumbs (I use Italian seasoned)
* 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 egg, lightly beaten
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste

What are the steps to

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do I stir a water bottle frequently so it doesn’t burn?

Step 2: Add Broth and Tomatoes

What is the recipe for chicken broth? Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Prepare the Meatballs

While the soup is simmering, prepare the meatballs. In a bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Don’t overmix, or the meatballs will be tough.

Step 4: Form the Meatballs

Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Can you use a cookie scoop to make them uniform?

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering soup. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pot, or the meatballs might not cook evenly.

Step 6: Add the Tortellini

Stir in the tortellini and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender. Make sure not to overcook the tortellini, or they’ll get mushy.

Step 7: Serve

What is the best way to serve soup?

What is the best way to serve it?

This soup is a meal in itself, but it’s also great with some crusty bread for dipping. What are some good ideas for serving:

For a Simple Lunch: Serve with a side of garlic bread or toasted baguette slices. I always have a loaf in the freezer for emergencies!

For a Cozy Dinner: Pair with a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. A little bit of green really brightens up the meal.

For a Potluck: Bring a big pot of this soup to your next potluck or gathering. It’s always a hit!

For a Weeknight Treat: Sometimes, I just make a big batch of this soup and we eat it for dinner for a few nights in a row. It’s that good! My family tradition is to sprinkle extra parmesan cheese on top, but honestly, anything goes.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Tortellini Meatball Soup

Okay, after making this soup countless times, I’ve learned a few tricks along the way. Here are my top tips for perfecting your Tortellini Meatball Soup:

Meatball Magic: Don’t overmix the meatball mixture! Overmixing will result in tough meatballs. Mix just until everything is combined.

Broth Boost: Use good quality chicken broth. The broth is the base of the soup, so using a good quality broth will make a big difference in the flavor. I sometimes even use bone broth for added nutrients and richness.

Veggie Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup. Diced zucchini, spinach, or kale are all great additions. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t get overcooked.

Cheese Please: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the meatballs. The pre-grated stuff just doesn’t have the same flavor.

Herb Heaven: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs. Fresh basil, oregano, or thyme would all be delicious in this soup.

Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Trust me, it adds a nice little kick!

Leftover Love: This soup tastes even better the next day! The flavors have time to meld together, making it even more delicious. So, make a big batch and enjoy it for lunch or dinner for the next few days.

Honestly, the biggest lesson I learned was not to skip the sautéing step for the vegetables. It really builds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise.

Storing and Reheating Tips

This soup is fantastic for meal prep because it stores so well! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The tortellini might absorb some of the broth as it sits, but it will still taste delicious.

Freezer Instructions: To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl.

Glaze Timing Advice: If you garnished your soup with fresh parsley, it’s best to add it fresh when you’re reheating, as it can get wilted during storage.

I’ve even frozen individual portions in mason jars for a quick and easy lunch. Just make sure to leave some headspace at the top of the jar to allow for expansion!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can definitely make this soup gluten-free! Just use gluten-free bread crumbs for the meatballs and gluten-free tortellini. You can find gluten-free tortellini at most grocery stores.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken would both work well in this soup. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker (except the tortellini) and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I add cream to this soup?

Yes, you can! Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking for a creamier soup. I sometimes add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each bowl for extra richness.

What can I use instead of chicken broth?

Vegetable broth or beef broth would both work well in this soup.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to Tortellini Meatball Soup recipe! It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, the tortellini meatball soup benefits are numerous, from being a great source of protein and nutrients to being incredibly easy to make. It’s truly a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. If you love this recipe, you might also enjoy my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Chicken Noodle Soup. And don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how yours turns out! I can’t wait to hear your variations and tips. Happy cooking!