If you are craving a cozy bowl of deliciousness that brings comfort and freshness together, this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe is an absolute winner. With tender cheese-filled tortellini swimming in a rich, savory broth bursting with fresh spinach, tomatoes, and Parmesan, each spoonful offers layers of creamy goodness and a delightful Italian-inspired flair. This soup is not only incredibly satisfying but also versatile and simple to whip up any day of the week, making it a favorite to share with friends or family around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients, each playing a vital role in building that luscious, comforting soup experience. From the aromatic onion and garlic that create the flavor base to the fresh spinach and creamy cheese tortellini that elevate the texture and heartiness, every item matters.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a fragrant and healthy fat base to sauté aromatics.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a punch of flavor that complements the creamy base perfectly.
- 4 cups vegetable broth: Forms the savory, umami-rich soup foundation.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices: Brings acidity and a burst of fresh tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend that infuses classic Mediterranean herbs for warmth.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle kick of heat if you like a bit of spice.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all ingredients.
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini: The star component that makes this soup delightfully filling and cheesy.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped: Adds vibrant color, nutrition, and freshness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Gives the soup its signature creamy texture and rich mouthfeel.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, savory umami that rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens the dish and makes every bowl picture-perfect.
How to Make Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and stir gently, letting it soften and become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, cooking just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—making sure not to let it brown. These layers of flavor build the savory foundation your soup will rest on.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Next, pour in the vegetable broth along with the diced tomatoes and their juices. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This vibrant broth sets the tone for your creamy delight.
Step 3: Cook the Tortellini
Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini right into the boiling broth. Carefully stir and cook according to the package directions, usually between 5 and 7 minutes until tender and cooked through. This method allows the tortellini to soak up all those incredible flavors, making every bite pure comfort.
Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream
Once your tortellini is ready, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it wilt gently, which only takes a couple of minutes. Then pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Give everything a good stir and let the soup simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the cream has fully blended in, making the soup luxuriously creamy and rich.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjustments
Before serving, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a little extra salt, pepper, or even an additional handful of Parmesan cheese can make a big difference. Your Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe is now ready to warm your soul.
How to Serve Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh herbaceous note that brightens the bowl beautifully. Don’t be shy with extra grated Parmesan cheese on top for a garlicky, salty finish that pairs perfectly with every spoonful.
Side Dishes
This soup is wonderfully rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad balances out the meal and offers delightful texture contrasts. A crisp baguette dipped into the creamy broth takes this soup experience to another level.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve your soup in rustic bowls and garnish with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked black pepper. You could also place a few tortellini on top as a centerpiece and scatter chopped basil leaves for an Instagram-worthy dish that’s as beautiful as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tortellini may absorb some of the broth’s liquid, so give the soup a gentle stir when reheating to reincorporate all the creamy goodness.
Freezing
Though this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Use a freezer-safe container, but keep in mind that the texture of the cream and tortellini may slightly change after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on low heat in a saucepan, stirring often to prevent sticking. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup appears too thick. Reheating slowly helps maintain the creaminess and prevents the dairy from separating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain any excess water before adding. Keep in mind frozen spinach won’t provide quite the same vibrant green color or fresh texture, but the flavor will remain delicious.
Is there a way to make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply use dairy-free cream alternatives, vegan cheese tortellini, and skip the Parmesan or substitute with a vegan cheese. Vegetable broth should already be suitable, and the soup will still taste hearty and comforting.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Definitely! Cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even crispy bacon make excellent additions. Add them after the broth comes to a boil and let them warm through with the tortellini for a heartier meal.
What can I do if I don’t have Italian seasoning?
You can easily make your own blend with dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. This homemade mix will keep the authentic Italian essence alive in your soup.
How thick is the soup? Is it more stew-like?
This soup strikes a perfect balance; it’s creamy and smooth but still has a broth-like quality that lets the tortellini and spinach shine. It’s comforting without being overly heavy.
Final Thoughts
Whipping up this Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe will quickly become one of your favorite ways to stay cozy on chilly days or impress friends with minimal effort. It’s hearty, comforting, and brimming with fresh flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will have a permanent spot on your weeknight rotation.
Print
Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick and hearty meal. It combines tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato broth enriched with Parmesan cheese and aromatic herbs, making it a delicious and satisfying option for any day.
Ingredients
Sauté Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Soup
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the base. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add liquids and seasonings. Pour in the vegetable broth and the diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Cook tortellini. Add the cheese tortellini to the boiling soup and cook according to package instructions, usually 5–7 minutes, until tender and cooked through.
- Add spinach. Reduce heat to low and stir in the roughly chopped fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach has wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
- Make it creamy. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to allow the soup to thicken slightly and heat through evenly.
- Adjust and serve. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
- Add cooked chicken or Italian sausage to make the soup more hearty and protein-rich.
