Parmesan Tomato Tortellini Soup
Parmesan Tomato Tortellini Soup is a cozy, hearty, and quick-to-make comfort dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini in a rich, creamy tomato broth, brightened with freshly grated Parmesan and herbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines savory warmth with fresh zest for a satisfying meal.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian (can be made vegan or dairy-free with substitutions)
Main Ingredients
- Cheese Tortellini – 9 to 12 oz package
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes – 28 oz (one large can)
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth – 4 cups
- Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated – 1 cup
- Onion, finely chopped – 1 medium
- Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half – 1 cup
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh Basil leaves or Italian Seasoning – 1 tablespoon fresh basil or 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt – to taste
- Pepper – to taste
Optional Variations
- Red Pepper Flakes – 1/4 teaspoon (for spicy kick)
- Cooked Italian Sausage or Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – 1 cup (for meaty enhancement)
- Fresh Spinach, Zucchini, or Bell Peppers – 1 cup chopped (for vegetable boost)
- Coconut Milk – 1 cup (dairy-free substitute for heavy cream)
- Dairy-Free Tortellini – as needed (for vegan/dairy-free option)
- Fresh Thyme or Oregano – 1 tablespoon (alternative herbs)
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, then cook until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes, to build a savory flavor base.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the canned crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to allow the flavors to combine.
- Season and Simmer: Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning or fresh basil. Let the soup simmer for 10 minutes so the herbs infuse fully and the tomato flavor deepens.
- Cook Tortellini: Gently add the cheese tortellini to the pot. Cook until they float and are tender yet firm, usually 3-5 minutes, following package instructions as guidance.
- Stir in Cream and Parmesan: Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, creating a velvety broth. Then fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts completely and blends smoothly.
- Final Taste and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a flavorful finish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and offers richer flavor than pre-grated versions.
- Don’t Overcook Tortellini: Cook tortellini just until tender to prevent them from becoming mushy in the soup.
- Simmer Slowly: A gentle simmer deepens tomato flavors and maintains a smooth broth texture.
- Layer Flavors: Sauté aromatics well and season gradually to create balanced, rich taste.
- Add Cream Last: Stir in cream on low heat at the end to avoid curdling and keep broth silky.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Parmesan Tomato Tortellini Soup, quick comfort meal, creamy tomato soup, cheese tortellini soup, easy weeknight dinner, Italian soup, creamy tomato broth