Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This creamy tortellini soup recipe is your answer. It's a perfect blend of cheesy goodness and satisfying pasta, ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, making it one of the best recipes for a quick and healthy dinner. Let's dive into this simple yet delicious homemade cooking adventure!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (10 ounce) package frozen cheese tortellini
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach (optional, but adds a nice touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Let's Cook!
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor base of your soup.
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Add the Broth and Tortellini: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the frozen cheese tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until they are cooked through and floating to the surface.
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Stir in the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese until it's completely melted and smooth. This creates the signature creamy texture of this delicious dish.
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Add Cream and Cheese: Gradually whisk in the heavy cream (or milk) and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed to find your perfect balance.
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Finishing Touches (Optional): If using, stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another minute or two until wilted. This adds a vibrant green color and a fresh element.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the deliciousness of this easy recipe.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Creamy Tortellini Soup
- Don't overcook the tortellini! Follow the package directions carefully to avoid mushy pasta.
- Use good quality broth: The flavor of your broth significantly impacts the overall taste of the soup.
- Adjust the creaminess: For a thicker soup, use more cream cheese or heavy cream. For a lighter version, use milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the soup. This adds variety and extra protein.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Spicy Tortellini Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Tortellini Soup: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Sun-dried Tomato Tortellini Soup: Add a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an intense burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This creamy tortellini soup is a fantastic example of delicious and easy food recipes. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, a satisfying lunch, or even a comforting meal on a chilly evening. Enjoy!