
This velvety tortellini soup is packed with cheesy goodness, fresh greens, and plenty of comforting flavors. It's just right for a laid-back night, any time you want something warm and tasty.
INGREDIENTS
- Fresh Basil: Grab 1/4 cup and chop it up to boost freshness at the end.
- Heavy Cream: Pour in 1/2 cup for that ultra-smooth feel.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use 1/2 cup, freshly grated, for a boost of yum.
- Fresh Spinach: Toss in 1 and 1/2 tightly packed cups for color and nutrition.
- Cheese Tortellini: Get 8 ounces from the refrigerated section for the main bite.
- Dried Basil: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon for an herby kick.
- Italian Seasoning: Add a teaspoon for that classic herb mix.
- Tomato Sauce: Mix in 8 ounces for extra depth and tasty flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes: Open a 14.5-ounce can to add a burst of tomato richness.
- Vegetable Broth: 3 cups, pour 'em in—they're the flavorful base.
- All-Purpose Flour: Take 1/4 cup to thicken things up.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a tiny bit of zing (if you want it).
- Garlic: Crush up 2 cloves so you get bold flavor in every bite.
- Onion: Dice 1 medium onion to make things savory.
- Butter: You only need 1 tablespoon, melted in early for tasty richness.
- Olive Oil: One tablespoon starts you off right sautéing the veggies.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 6:
- Top each bowl with the chopped basil and dig in while it's still steamy. Taste and smile!
- Step 5:
- Turn off the heat, then toss in the spinach, Parmesan, and the cream. Stir around till the cheese melts and spinach softens up.
- Step 4:
- Bump up the flavor with the cheese tortellini. Let them cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, just till soft.
- Step 3:
- Keep stirring while you slowly add the veggie broth. Dump in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, both types of basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it gently come up to a boil.
- Step 2:
- Now add your garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in pepper flakes if you're feeling spicy, then dump in the flour and stir for a minute so it’s smooth.
- Step 1:
- Start by warming the olive oil and melting the butter in your big pot on medium. Throw in the onion and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring here and there until soft.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Dish up while it's piping hot with a little more Parmesan and fresh basil if you like extra flavor.
- Pair with a crunchy piece of bread or a basic salad to make it a full meal.
- Pop leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge and they'll keep for around 3 days.
- Reheat low and slow on your stovetop, adding more cream or broth if it gets too thick.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Giada De Laurentiis says you can't beat the taste and texture of refrigerated tortellini over the dried kind.
- Ina Garten thinks grating fresh Parmesan right before you use it makes a bigger flavor splash.
- Mario Batali likes a drizzle of balsamic at the end for a pop of tang and extra balance.
VARIATIONS
- Making it veggie? Just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based swap.
- Want more veggies? Stir in some mushrooms, chopped zucchini, or carrots for extra crunch.
- Try switching out cheese tortellini for ones stuffed with spinach or mushrooms for a fun twist.