If you are searching for a cozy, flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you have found it with this Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe. This soup masterfully combines tender cheese tortellini with a rich and savory chicken broth, enlivened by fresh spinach and vibrant tomatoes. Ready in under 30 minutes, it balances simplicity and heartiness perfectly, making it a go-to comfort dish any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each component is essential, bringing in unique flavors, textures, and colors that come together in a harmonious bowl of goodness.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base for sautéing and enhances overall richness.
- 1 onion, diced: Imparts sweetness and depth to the broth as it gently cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that awakens the flavor of the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The heart of the soup, providing savory warmth and body.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh): Contributes a subtle acidity and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 package cheese tortellini (about 9 oz): Tender, cheesy pillows that make every bite satisfying.
- 2 cups fresh spinach: Brings a fresh, leafy green texture and vibrant nutrient boost.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevate the soup with aromatic complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently until fragrant and translucent. This step builds a rich flavor base that makes the broth truly irresistible.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes along with the Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to your preference. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together into a savory and inviting liquid.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add the cheese tortellini directly into the simmering broth. Follow the package instructions, usually around 5 to 7 minutes, until the pasta is perfectly tender. This step transforms the soup from a broth into a hearty meal.
Step 4: Add Fresh Spinach
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves just before serving. The residual heat will wilt the greens beautifully, creating a lovely burst of color and freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and broth.
How to Serve Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe
Garnishes
Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of savory flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh basil can bring a delightful twist and visual appeal to your soup.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup alongside crunchy garlic bread or a fresh green salad. The crunchiness of the bread contrasts wonderfully with the soft tortellini, while a salad adds a crisp, refreshing element to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun, family-friendly touch, ladle the soup into colorful bowls and encourage guests to add their own garnishes. You can also serve it in rustic bread bowls to soak up every drop for an extra cozy experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
This Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe freezes well. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that pasta can sometimes soften after freezing, so you might prefer to undercook the tortellini slightly if planning to freeze.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much.
FAQs
Can I substitute vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth will keep this soup vegetarian-friendly while still delivering delicious flavor. Just choose a rich, well-seasoned broth for best results.
Is it possible to add protein to this soup?
Yes, adding cooked shredded chicken or Italian sausage can make this soup more filling. Simply stir in the cooked protein during the last few minutes of cooking.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
While fresh spinach is recommended for its texture and color, frozen spinach can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding to avoid excess liquid.
What type of tortellini works best?
Cheese tortellini is classic here, but feel free to experiment with meat or vegetable-filled tortellini depending on your preference. Cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I make this soup vegan-friendly?
To make it vegan, swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and use vegan cheese tortellini or other plant-based pasta options. Skip the Parmesan garnish or replace it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re warming up after a long day or looking for a quick meal that feels indulgent, this soup hits all the right notes. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own!
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Easy Tortellini Soup with Chicken Broth Recipe
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Quick and hearty tortellini soup made with tender pasta, flavorful chicken broth, spinach, and simple vegetables — comforting and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 package cheese tortellini (about 9 oz)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Broth and Seasoning: Pour in the chicken broth, add the diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cook Tortellini: Add the cheese tortellini to the simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions, usually 5 to 7 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and optionally sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your quick and comforting tortellini soup.
Notes
- Add cooked shredded chicken for added protein and to make it more hearty.
- Use mini ravioli as a substitute for tortellini if preferred.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Soup, One-Pot Meal
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
