Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup (One-Pot Comfort Food)
If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is it. As seen in the photos, this soup is incredibly rich and velvety, with a vibrant orange-red color that comes from simmering tomatoes with heavy cream. It’s packed with pillowy cheese tortellini that make it a hearty and satisfying meal. The sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a pop of color and freshness that perfectly balances the rich flavors.
This is not just a basic tomato soup; it is a full meal. The addition of cheese tortellini transforms it into a filling dinner that comes together in just one pot. The flavors are a classic combination of sweet tomatoes, aromatic garlic and basil, and rich cream. It’s cozy, warming, and perfect for a chilly evening.
Secrets to the Perfect Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup
Why It Works
This recipe works because of the flavor layering. We start by sautéing onions and garlic to build a savory base. The canned tomatoes are simmered with broth and Italian seasonings to develop depth, and then finished with heavy cream for that luxurious, velvety texture visible in the image. The cheesy filling of the tortellini adds another layer of richness that complements the tangy tomato broth perfectly.
A specific technique to note is adding the tortellini at the very end. This ensures the pasta cooks perfectly in the broth without becoming soggy or absorbing too much liquid, maintaining the perfect texture shown in the photo.
Chef’s Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Tortellini cooks very quickly, usually in 3-5 minutes. Add it to the simmering soup just before serving. If you plan to have leftovers, it’s best to cook the tortellini separately and add it to individual bowls to prevent it from getting mushy in the fridge.
- Use Quality Tomatoes: Since tomatoes are the main ingredient, use high-quality canned whole or crushed tomatoes (like San Marzano) for the best flavor. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender before adding the pasta and cream.
- Fresh Basil is Key: While dried Italian seasoning is great for the simmering stage, stirring in fresh basil leaves at the very end adds a bright, peppery flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Serve this hearty soup with a slice of crusty garlic bread for dunking, and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. As the soup sits, the tortellini will absorb more liquid, so you may need to add a splash of broth or cream when reheating on the stove. Freezing is not recommended as the cream can separate and the pasta will become mushy upon thawing.
Substitutions
Spinach Boost: As suggested in the prompt's title, add 2 cups of fresh spinach right at the end along with the basil. It will wilt in seconds and add nutrition. Protein: For a meatier soup, add cooked, crumbled Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken. Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Use dairy-free tortellini and parmesan.
Ingredients
1 tbsp
1 small, finely chopped
2 cloves, minced
28 oz (crushed or whole peeled), San Marzano preferred
4 cups (or chicken broth if not vegetarian)
1 tsp
1/2 tsp, adjust to taste
1/4 tsp
9 oz, refrigerated or frozen
1 cup (do not substitute milk for best texture)
1/4 cup, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
Grated, for serving
Shopping Tip
For best results, gather all ingredients before you start cooking. Fresh ingredients will give you the most flavorful results.
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Pour in the canned tomatoes (if using whole, break them up with a spoon), vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot.
Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3-5 minutes) until tender.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and sliced fresh basil. Cook for 1-2 minutes just until heated through. Do not boil.
Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with grated Parmesan cheese, extra fresh basil, and cracked black pepper.
Serve this recipe straight from the kitchen for the best taste and texture. It's sure to become a favorite that you'll make again and again.
Frequently Asked Questions
→ What type of ingredients work best for this dish?
Use the freshest ingredients available for the best flavor and texture results.
→ Can I make substitutions?
Yes, feel free to swap ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently to maintain the best texture.
Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup (One-Pot Comfort Food)
If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food in a bowl, this Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup is it. As seen in the photos, this soup is incredibly rich and ve
Ingredients
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Pour in the canned tomatoes (if using whole, break them up with a spoon), vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend flavors.
For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot.
Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions (usually 3-5 minutes) until tender.
Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and sliced fresh basil. Cook for 1-2 minutes just until heated through. Do not boil.
Ladle soup into bowls and top generously with grated Parmesan cheese, extra fresh basil, and cracked black pepper.
Rate This Recipe
Tools You'll Need
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
- Wooden Spoon
- Immersion Blender (Optional)
Recipe Tags
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At Cozy Bites Kitchen, we believe that great food doesn't have to be complicated. Our passion is creating easy, cozy, and delicious homemade recipes for everyday cooking - quick meals, comfort dishes, family dinners, soups, pastas, and simple home-style favorites. Warm, friendly, and fuss-free cooking made for real life.
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