Hearty and Flavorful Tortellini Soup for Cozy Nights
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of soup. And if you’re in the mood for something hearty and flavorful, look no further than this delicious Tortellini Soup recipe. Packed with savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and nutritious greens, this soup is a complete meal in itself. Join us as we dive into the world of comforting soups and discover how to make this delightful dish, along with some helpful tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground Italian Sausage
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 pinches red pepper flakes
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 14.5 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth or low sodium chicken broth
- 10 ounces refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups arugula or spinach
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Fresh thyme (optional)
- Fresh basil (optional)
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Add Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes to the pot with the cooked sausage. Stir well to combine and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Simmer with Broths: Pour in the low sodium beef broth, tomato paste, fire roasted tomatoes, and vegetable broth or chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Tortellini: Once the soup is simmering, add the refrigerated cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to package instructions until the tortellini are tender and cooked through, usually about 7-9 minutes.
- Add Greens: Stir in the arugula or spinach and allow it to wilt in the hot soup for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the hot tortellini soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. For an extra touch of freshness, add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or torn basil leaves.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground Italian sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or diced tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking.
- Extra Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value of the soup by adding diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers along with the onions and garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated? A: Yes, frozen tortellini can be used in this recipe. Simply adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as frozen tortellini may take slightly longer to cook.
Q: How long can I store leftovers of this soup? A: Leftover Tortellini Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: While this soup can be frozen, keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If freezing, omit adding the greens until ready to serve, as they can become mushy when thawed.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Option:
- Substitute the cheese tortellini with cauliflower gnocchi or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Twist:
- Replace the tortellini with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a low-carb alternative that’s still satisfyingly delicious
In conclusion, this Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for warming up on chilly evenings or enjoying as a comforting lunch. With its rich flavors, tender tortellini, and nutritious greens, it’s a complete meal that will leave you feeling satisfied and content. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy bowl of soup for yourself, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, grab a pot, and get ready to savor the comforting goodness of homemade Tortellini Soup
eto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto-Friendly Option:
- Substitute the cheese tortellini with cauliflower gnocchi or shirataki noodles to reduce the carb content. These alternatives provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the soup beautifully, making them an excellent choice for those following a keto diet.
Low-Carb Twist:
- For a low-carb twist, consider replacing the tortellini with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. These vegetable-based alternatives add bulk to the soup while keeping the carb count low. Simply sauté the spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash in a pan with a little olive oil until tender, then add them to the soup just before serving.
In conclusion, this Tortellini Soup is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal to enjoy on a cold winter’s night or a hearty lunch to fuel your day, this recipe has you covered. With its rich flavors, tender tortellini, and nutritious greens, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can create a delicious and wholesome meal that will impress your family and friends. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to keep things interesting.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of homemade Tortellini Soup that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, this recipe is guaranteed to warm your heart and nourish your soul. Enjoy!
