It was a chilly autumn evening when I decided to whip up a comforting bowl of Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup. As the wind howled outside, I knew nothing would warm me up quite like this rich and velvety soup. I had stumbled upon the recipe a few weeks earlier, and I couldn’t wait to try it out.
When I got home from work, I quickly gathered the ingredients – juicy tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and plump cheese-filled tortellini. As I chopped the onions and minced the garlic, the kitchen filled with an incredible aroma that had my mouth watering in anticipation. I couldn’t wait to ladle the steaming soup into a bowl and curl up on the couch with a good book.
Well, let me tell you, this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup did not disappoint! The combination of the tender tortellini, the creamy broth, and the fresh spinach was an absolute delight. It was the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication, and I knew it would become a new staple in my recipe repertoire.
Table of Contents
Why This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
What sets this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup recipe apart is the attention to detail and the use of high-quality ingredients. The key is to start with a flavorful broth as the foundation – in this case, either low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. This provides a savory base that allows the other flavors to shine.
The addition of heavy cream takes the soup to the next level, creating a velvety, indulgent texture that’s simply irresistible. And the cheese-filled tortellini? They’re the star of the show, adding a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. But it’s the fresh spinach that really elevates the dish, providing a vibrant pop of color and a nutritious boost.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – This helps to sauté the onions and garlic, building the foundation of flavor.
- 1 onion, diced – The onion adds a sweet, aromatic base to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a must-have for any savory soup, lending its distinctive pungent flavor.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth – The broth provides the liquid base and an opportunity to control the sodium content.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is the secret to the soup’s velvety, indulgent texture.
- 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini – The plump, cheese-filled pasta is the star of the show, adding delicious pockets of flavor.
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped – The spinach adds a burst of freshness and nutrition to the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme lends an earthy, aromatic note that complements the other flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a subtle kick of heat, the red pepper flakes are a great addition.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season the soup to your liking!
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional) – A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a savory, nutty finish.
Step-by-Step Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup comes together in a total of 30 minutes. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven to bring this cozy, comforting soup to life.
1- Start by heating the olive oil in the pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
2- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and continue cooking for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
3- Pour in the 4 cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
4- Once the broth is simmering, stir in the heavy cream, cheese tortellini, chopped spinach, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5- Allow the soup to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and the spinach has wilted.
6- Ladle the creamy, cheesy Tortellini & Spinach Soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Opt for a flavorful broth and fresh, plump tortellini.
- Don’t overcook the tortellini – they should be tender but still have a bit of bite to them.
- Add the spinach towards the end to maintain its vibrant green color and fresh texture.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of heat. Start with a small amount and add more if you want a bolder kick.
- Serve the Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup immediately for the best texture and temperature. The soup can thicken as it sits, so you may need to thin it out with a bit of additional broth when reheating.
Serving and Storing Your Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup is a comforting and satisfying main dish that serves 6 people. To round out the meal, consider serving it with a fresh, crunchy salad or a slice of crusty bread for dipping. For a beverage pairing, a light, crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors nicely.
If you’re looking to make this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup the star of the show, it’s also delicious on its own as a cozy, comforting dinner. Enjoy it curled up on the couch on a chilly evening, or serve it as the main course for a casual gathering with friends and family.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftover Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or milk to thin out the soup, as it can thicken as it sits.
For longer-term storage, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup can also be made in advance, making it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining. Prepare the soup up to 3 days in advance, then simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
Creative Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup Variations
There are endless ways to put your own spin on this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup recipe. For a heartier version, you could add cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken. To make it more vegetable-forward, try swapping the spinach for kale or adding diced bell peppers or zucchini.
In the fall and winter, consider using butternut squash or pumpkin puree to create a seasonal twist on the soup. And for a touch of brightness, stir in a handful of fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
Making Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup Diet-Friendly
For those following a gluten-free diet, simply swap the cheese tortellini for a gluten-free pasta or even chickpea or lentil-based tortellini. To make the soup vegan, use a plant-based milk or cream alternative in place of the heavy cream, and opt for a vegetable broth.
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can reduce the amount of tortellini and increase the spinach or add in some roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly.
No matter how you choose to customize this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup, the key is to have fun and make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
A: Absolutely! While the cheese-filled tortellini is the star of this dish, you can substitute other types of pasta like ravioli, gnocchi, or even small shells or penne.
Q: How long does the soup take to make?
A: This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup has a total time of 30 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup can be made up to 3 days in advance. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup recipe serves 6 people.
Q: What if the soup is too thick?
A: If the soup thickens up too much, simply add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the creamy, comforting goodness of this Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup. Packed with tender tortellini pasta, fresh spinach, and a rich, velvety broth, this 30-minute soup is a delicious and easy-to-make classic.
Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 (20 oz) package cheese tortellini
– 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add the tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
5. Stir in the chopped spinach, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a thicker soup, you can simmer it for a few extra minutes to allow the broth to reduce slightly. This soup also freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch and enjoy it later.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
This Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup is the ultimate comfort food – it’s rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. With its perfect balance of tender tortellini, velvety broth, and vibrant spinach, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite.
What are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get ready to cozy up with a steaming bowl of this delicious Creamy Tortellini & Spinach Soup. I promise, it won’t disappoint! Let me know how it turns out for you in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and loved ones.
