Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that warms both the body and soul. This comforting dish combines rich cream, cheesy tortellini, and fresh spinach in a savory broth, creating a quick yet satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re facing chilly winter nights or simply seeking a nourishing bowl of goodness, this soup will surely become a favorite.

Why make this recipe

There are countless reasons to whip up a pot of Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, with straightforward ingredients and a quick cooking time. It also provides a great way to incorporate greens into your diet, thanks to the fresh baby spinach. Additionally, this soup is versatile; it can be served as a hearty appetizer or a main course, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. The joy of cooking and sharing a meal that is both wholesome and delicious is truly unmatched.

How to make Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
4 cups fresh baby spinach
1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and the can of diced tomatoes with juice. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes for fresh tortellini or 8-10 minutes for frozen tortellini). During the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the fresh spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and is evenly distributed in the soup.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and fully incorporates into the soup, giving it a rich, cheesy flavor. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper as desired.
Ladle the creamy tortellini soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to serve Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup

This soup is best served piping hot in warm bowls. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. Add a simple side salad for a complete meal, or serve it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves on top to elevate the presentation.

How to store

Leftover Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened. Freezing is not recommended due to the cream and tortellini, as they may change texture when thawed.

Tips to make

For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and then return it to the pot.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enhance the nutrition and flavor.
For extra protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage.

Variation

Experimenting with variations can keep this soup fresh and exciting. For instance, you can replace the cheese tortellini with large pasta shapes such as penne or shells. Additionally, try using different greens like kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a twist on flavors and nutrients. For a little heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or substitute the dried herbs with Italian seasoning.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure that the tortellini is made without meat.

Can I cook the tortellini separately?
Yes, you can cook the tortellini separately to avoid them becoming overly soft in the soup. Just add them to the soup before serving.