Craving a cozy meal that’s easy to make? My Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is your answer. This one-pot recipe is packed with rich flavors and warm comfort. With simple ingredients like fresh basil, garlic, and cheesy tortellini, you will have a delightful bowl ready in no time. Join me as we cook up this delicious dish that's perfect for any day or a gathering. Let’s dive in!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This creamy tomato basil soup is rich and hearty, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh basil and heavy cream elevates the soup, giving it a vibrant and delicious flavor.
- Versatile Pairing: This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
This soup is rich and warming. Each ingredient plays a key role. Olive oil gives a smooth base. The onion adds sweetness and depth. Garlic brings a punch of flavor. Crushed tomatoes add body and color. Vegetable broth makes it hearty. Dried oregano gives it an Italian touch. Granulated sugar helps balance the tartness of tomatoes.
Salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Cheese tortellini makes it filling and fun. Heavy cream adds a silky texture. Fresh basil gives a bright, fresh note. Finally, Parmesan cheese on top adds a salty finish.
Gather these ingredients for a cozy meal. You can find most items in your pantry or local store. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It brings comfort and joy in every spoonful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add 1 small, finely diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the onion turns soft and translucent.
Next, add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 1 more minute, stirring often. You want the garlic fragrant but not browned.
Cooking the Soup
Now, pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir in 1 teaspoon of dried oregano and 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar. The sugar helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so the flavors blend well.
Final Touches
Once the soup simmers, add 9 ounces of cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook according to the package directions. This is about 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini or 7-10 minutes if using frozen. The pasta should be tender but still firm.
Next, lower the heat and slowly stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of coarsely chopped fresh basil. Heat through for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil.
Finally, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings. Add more salt, pepper, or basil if needed. Serve hot, ladled into bowls, and finish each with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
To make this soup shine, balance the acidity of tomatoes with sugar. A teaspoon of sugar helps cut through the tartness. Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper little by little until you find the right mix for your palate.
Ensuring Creaminess
Slowly stirring in cream is key. It adds richness and smoothness to the soup. Make sure to heat it gently. For tortellini, choose fresh or frozen cheese-filled options. They both add great flavor and texture to the dish.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish your soup with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This adds color and a burst of flavor. Pair the soup with crusty bread for dipping. The warm bread complements the creamy soup perfectly.
Pro Tips
- Fresh Basil is Best: For the most vibrant flavor, use fresh basil leaves instead of dried. Add them at the end of cooking to preserve their bright taste and color.
- Balance Acidity: The granulated sugar in this recipe helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. If you find the soup still too acidic, consider adding a pinch more sugar.
- Customize Tortellini: Feel free to experiment with different fillings for the tortellini. Cheese, spinach, or mushroom varieties can all add a unique twist to the soup.
- Make It Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore creaminess.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the tortellini to match your taste. Use spinach or mushroom tortellini for a twist. Store-bought options often taste great. You can also make your own tortellini if you feel adventurous.
For the broth, any vegetable broth will work. Low-sodium options keep the soup light. You can even use chicken broth for more flavor. Just remember, each broth changes the taste slightly.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream. Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead. Both options add a nice creaminess without the dairy.
For gluten-free needs, choose gluten-free tortellini. Many brands offer this option now. Also, check the broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding more vegetables boosts the soup’s nutrition. Spinach adds color and taste. Carrots give a sweet crunch. Just throw them in with the broth.
You can also explore herbs beyond basil. Fresh parsley or thyme adds depth. Try a hint of oregano for a robust flavor. Don't be shy; add what you love!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy tomato basil tortellini soup fresh, store it in an airtight container. The soup lasts up to three days in the fridge. Make sure it cools down before sealing it. This keeps bacteria away and preserves flavor.
Reheating Instructions
When it's time to enjoy leftovers, reheat the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir often to prevent it from sticking. To maintain creaminess, avoid boiling it. You can add a splash of water or more cream if it thickens too much.
Freezing the Soup
You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When ready to cook it from frozen, heat it slowly on the stove. Stir well to combine the ingredients again.
FAQs
Common Questions
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried tortellini. Just remember, it takes longer to cook. Check the package for the right time.
What can I substitute for heavy cream? You can use coconut milk or cashew cream. Both options keep the soup rich and smooth.
How can I make this recipe vegan? Replace cheese tortellini with a vegan option. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
Can I use canned tomatoes or do I need fresh? Canned tomatoes work great! They save time and taste just as good in soup.
How do I thicken the soup if it’s too thin? You can add more tortellini or let the soup simmer longer. Both methods help thicken it nicely.
This blog post covered a tasty tortellini soup recipe from start to finish. We explored the key ingredients, like olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil. You learned clear steps to prepare and cook the soup, plus tips to boost flavor. Variations let you customize to your taste and dietary needs. Lastly, we discussed storage and reheating to keep your soup fresh. Enjoy making this easy dish, and feel free to tweak it your way. Happy cooking!
