Creamy Spinach Tortellini Soup

Introduction

I recently made this creamy spinach tortellini soup for a family dinner, and it quickly became a new favorite! The combination of rich, creamy broth, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach made for a perfect, cozy meal. It was not only easy to prepare, but it was also a hit with both the kids and adults at the table. The depth of flavor from the garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese brought everything together, making it a truly comforting dish. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to serve to guests, this creamy spinach tortellini soup is sure to impress.

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Ingredients

To make this creamy spinach tortellini soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create a flavorful, comforting dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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)

These ingredients work together to create a soup that’s creamy, flavorful, and loaded with fresh ingredients. The combination of cheese tortellini and Parmesan cheese ensures each bite is rich and satisfying, while the spinach adds a burst of freshness.

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Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make this creamy spinach tortellini soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

• 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. Be sure to stir regularly to prevent the garlic from burning.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

• Pour in 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, 1 cup of heavy cream, and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice.
• Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow the flavors to meld together and the soup base to heat through.

Step 3: Add Tortellini and Spinach

• 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 throughout the soup.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan

• Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and fully incorporate into the soup. This adds a rich, cheesy flavor and a velvety texture to the soup.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

• Ladle the creamy tortellini soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this creamy spinach tortellini soup.

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Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

This creamy spinach tortellini soup is not only delicious but also provides a satisfying, balanced meal. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information per serving (1 bowl):

• Servings: 4-6 servings (depending on portion size)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 10g

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of broth or cream.

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Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes

This soup comes together quickly and is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen.

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How to Serve

This creamy spinach tortellini soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ways to serve it:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the creamy broth.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
• As a Starter: Serve a small bowl of soup as a starter to a larger Italian meal, such as pasta or roasted chicken.
• Topped with More Parmesan: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan for added richness and flavor.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

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Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Tortellini: Fresh cheese tortellini cooks quickly and gives the soup a softer, more delicate texture compared to frozen tortellini. If you can find it, opt for fresh tortellini.
2. Add Extra Veggies: For a more hearty soup, try adding other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini.
3. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic for a little extra heat.
4. Use Homemade Broth: For the best flavor, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth. It makes the soup even more flavorful and comforting.
5. Make It Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure the broth and cream are gluten-free as well.

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Recipe Variations

While this creamy spinach tortellini soup is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you can try to customize it to your tastes:

• Add Meat: For added protein, you can add cooked sausage, chicken, or bacon to the soup. Just add it in when you add the tortellini.
• Vegan Version: To make this soup vegan, swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use dairy-free tortellini and Parmesan cheese alternatives.
• Swap the Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try using kale, chard, or even arugula for a different green.
• Tomato-Based Soup: For a tangier version, you can omit the heavy cream and increase the amount of diced tomatoes for a tomato-based tortellini soup.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Cheese Board: Add some variety with a cheese board that includes cheeses such as mozzarella, goat cheese, or fontina.
• As a Comfort Meal: Serve this soup with a warm blanket and a side of your favorite TV show for the perfect cozy meal.
• For a Crowd: This recipe can easily be doubled to serve a larger group. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

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Freezing and Storage

This creamy spinach tortellini soup stores and freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep or making ahead for busy days.

• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove over low heat.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The soup may thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth or cream when reheating.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?

• Yes, frozen spinach works well in this recipe. Be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup.

1. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

• Yes, half-and-half can be used for a lighter version of the soup, but it will be slightly less rich.

1. What type of tortellini should I use?

• Cheese tortellini is traditional, but you can use any type of tortellini, such as spinach or meat-filled, depending on your preference.

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

• Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just reheat gently before serving.

1. How do I reheat the soup?

• To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little broth or cream if it thickens too much.

1. Can I add other vegetables?

• Absolutely! Carrots, celery, and zucchini can be added to enhance the flavor and texture.

1. How can I make the soup spicier?

• Add red pepper flakes or a small amount of hot sauce to the soup to give it a spicy kick.

1. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

• Yes, vegetable broth is a great substitute and keeps the soup vegetarian.

1. **Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

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• While you can use pre-grated cheese, freshly grated Parmesan will provide a richer flavor and smoother texture.

1. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

• Yes, substitute the cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free tortellini and cheese for a dairy-free version.

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Conclusion

This creamy spinach tortellini soup is a perfect dish for any season but is especially comforting in the colder months. With its rich and creamy broth, flavorful cheese tortellini, and vibrant spinach, it’s the ideal meal for family dinners or a cozy lunch. Quick to prepare, customizable, and absolutely delicious, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Whether you’re serving it as a light meal or pairing it with sides for a more substantial dinner, this soup will never disappoint. Enjoy the warmth and comfort that this creamy spinach tortellini soup brings to the table!

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