Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful soup that combines the bright, fresh taste of tomatoes with aromatic basil and tender cheese-filled tortellini. This soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a satisfying starter for a special meal. It’s rich, creamy, and filling without being heavy, and it captures the essence of Italian flavors in every spoonful.

The combination of fresh basil, diced tomatoes, and tortellini makes this soup both vibrant and indulgent. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to family and friends. With a balance of freshness, warmth, and richness, this soup is ideal for any season, particularly when you crave something cozy and flavorful.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it is quick, easy, and full of flavor. The tortellini adds a satisfying bite, while the tomato-basil base is aromatic and light. It’s a perfect balance between creamy and tangy, and the flavors meld beautifully as it simmers.

The soup is versatile, comforting, and can easily be customized with extra vegetables or proteins.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is a must-try because it’s a simple yet flavorful meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. It brings the taste of Italian cuisine into your home without requiring complicated techniques or ingredients.

The combination of tender pasta, fresh basil, and rich tomato broth makes it both satisfying and heartwarming, ideal for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

Servings: 4-6
Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
Course: Main Course / Soup
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (9 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional for creamier soup)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil, plus extra for garnish
• Optional vegetables: spinach, zucchini, or carrots

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and sauté for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable or chicken broth, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a boil.

Step 3: Simmer
Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook Tortellini
Add tortellini to the simmering soup and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-5 minutes for fresh tortellini and 7-9 minutes for frozen.

Step 5: Add Cream and Basil
Stir in heavy cream (if using), Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh basil. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until warmed through and slightly thickened.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with extra fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
5. Add tortellini and cook according to package instructions.
6. Stir in cream (optional), Parmesan, and fresh basil. Simmer 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil and Parmesan.

How to Serve

Serve Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup hot in bowls. Pair it with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh basil for the best flavor.
• For extra richness, add a splash of cream or half-and-half.
• Avoid overcooking tortellini to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or carrots for extra nutrition.
• Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and pepper.

Variations

• Use meat-filled tortellini or vegan tortellini for dietary preferences.
• Add cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp for a protein boost.
• Substitute crushed tomatoes for diced tomatoes for a smoother texture.
• Use coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free version.
• Spice it up with chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Tortellini can become soft when frozen, so it’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta and add fresh tortellini when reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to adjust consistency if needed.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or ladle for stirring and serving

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen tortellini?
A: Yes, add it directly to the soup and cook according to package instructions.

Q: Can I make this soup vegan?
A: Yes, use vegetable broth, vegan tortellini, and omit cream or use a plant-based alternative.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: Simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.

Q: Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, prepare the base without tortellini and refrigerate. Add tortellini when reheating.

Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
A: Fresh basil provides the best flavor, but 1-2 teaspoons of dried basil can be used if needed.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make soup that combines the freshness of tomatoes and basil with tender tortellini. Quick enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests, it is a versatile and satisfying dish. Creamy, aromatic, and delicious, this soup is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty Italian-inspired homemade meal.