Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup

This creamy tomato tortellini soup has comfort written all over it and is perfect for those crisp autumn nights when you need something quick and deeply satisfying My family adores the combination of tender cheese tortellini bathed in a velvety tomato broth studded with sweet sun dried tomatoes This is one of those back pocket recipes you will find yourself reaching for again and again

I remember making this for the first time on a rainy October evening and we polished off every last drop It has become a regular Sunday supper in our house

Ingredients

• Cheese tortellini: Frozen is perfect because it cooks quickly and stays tender Look for plump filled tortellini in the freezer section
• Tomato soup: Canned tomato soup brings instant creaminess and body to the broth Use your favorite brand for best flavor
• Chicken broth: Adds savory depth If you have homemade on hand this is the soup to use it
• Milk: Skim milk cuts the richness but keeps the soup silky fresh milk is best
• Half and half: Balances lightness and creaminess A higher fat content half and half makes the soup luxuriously smooth
• Sun dried tomatoes: These provide concentrated tomato flavor and chewy bursts of sweetness Try to choose oil packed for added richness
• Onion powder: For a gentle allium flavor with no chopping required Choose pure onion powder for best results
• Garlic powder: Gives the soup classic aroma and a mellow kick
• Dried basil: Brings herbal notes that play beautifully with the tomatoes Use fresh dried basil for the fullest fragrance
• Salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors Taste before adding more as the broth and cheese will bring salt too
• Shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the soup for a savory finish Block cheese grated at home will have the best melt and flavor

Step by Step Instructions

Cook the Tortellini:

Prepare the cheese tortellini following the instructions on the package Boil in salted water until just tender but not overcooked Drain tortellini well in a colander and set aside

Build the Soup Base:

In a large stock pot whisk together the tomato soup chicken broth milk half and half sun dried tomatoes onion powder garlic powder dried basil and salt Place over medium heat and stir frequently until the mixture is hot and smooth Do not boil as this can scorch the dairy

Combine Everything:

Once the soup base is steaming gently stir in the cooked tortellini Let the pasta soak up the flavors for about two to three minutes Keep the heat on low to prevent sticking

Finish with Parmesan:

Add the shredded Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts completely The soup should take on a rich creamy consistency Taste and add more salt if needed

Serve:

Ladle hot soup into bowls and top each with extra Parmesan cheese Serve right away with a thick slice of hearty bread for dipping

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Sun dried tomatoes are my secret to an extra punch of flavor They always remind me of my grandmother who added them to everything My kids now look forward to finding those sweet tangy bites in every bowl

Storage Tips

Transfer leftover soup into airtight containers Once cooled refrigerate and consume within three days If freezing portion out the soup base without the tortellini for the best texture Thaw overnight in the fridge and heat gently before adding with freshly cooked tortellini

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap out frozen for refrigerated cheese tortellini if that is what you have Vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian option If you prefer a lighter soup use whole milk in place of half and half and for extra richness a splash of heavy cream is a real treat

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Serving Suggestions

A bowl of this tomato tortellini soup is wonderful on its own but it really shines with grilled cheese sandwiches garlic bread or a crisp mixed green salad For a special touch drizzle with basil oil or top with pepper flakes for a gentle kick

Cultural Context

Tortellini soups have deep roots in Italian home kitchens where tortellini en brodo is a celebrated comfort food This American style version is inspired by those traditions but leans on convenience ingredients found in many pantries It brings the familiar comfort of tomato soup with a little Italian soul

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes, fresh tortellini works well; just reduce the cooking time according to the package directions before adding it to the soup.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth?

Vegetable broth is an excellent substitute for chicken broth, making the soup suitable for vegetarians.

→ Will different cheeses work in this soup?

Absolutely! Try mozzarella or fontina for a different cheesy flavor. Parmesan is classic, but you can mix in other favorites.

→ Can this soup be made ahead?

Yes, prepare the soup base in advance and add tortellini when reheating to prevent overcooking.

→ How can I make the soup thicker?

Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste or let the soup simmer uncovered a few extra minutes for a thicker texture.

→ Are there any tips for extra flavor?

Saute fresh garlic and onion before adding liquids, or simmer with fresh basil for a deeper, richer taste.