Name: Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing and flavor); 1 medium onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups vegetable broth (choose low-sodium if preferred); 14 oz diced tomatoes (canned, with juices); 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; to taste salt and black pepper; 9 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated); 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped); grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

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Cozy up to a bowl of Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes), a vibrant and comforting dish that brings together the fresh flavors of tomato and basil with the tender, cheesy goodness of tortellini. This soup is a perfect weeknight meal when you want something quick, nourishing, and bursting with taste. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a warm, satisfying bowl ready in half an hour. Whether you’re new to making soups or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is straightforward, flexible, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes) is Worth Your Time

There’s something magical about the combination of tomato and basil in any dish, and this soup takes it to the next level. The cheese tortellini adds a delightful, pillowy texture that makes the soup feel indulgent without being heavy. Plus, it’s packed with fresh spinach, giving it a nutritional boost and vibrant color. The use of dried herbs alongside fresh basil gives a layered flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. What’s more, this soup comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights when you crave something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

If you love the comforting flavors of tomato and basil, you might also enjoy dishes like Creamy Tomato Basil Turkey Meatball Pasta or Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine, which bring those classic flavors into hearty pasta meals.

What to Buy

2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and flavor
1 medium onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – gives a punch of aroma and taste
4 cups vegetable broth – the soup base, choose low-sodium if preferred
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – provides the rich tomato flavor
1 teaspoon dried basil – for that classic herbaceous note
1 teaspoon dried oregano – complements the basil nicely
Salt and black pepper to taste – essential seasonings
1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini – fresh or refrigerated works best
2 cups fresh spinach – adds color and nutrients
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped – brightens the soup with fresh herbal flavor
Grated Parmesan cheese – for serving, optional but highly recommended

Hardware & Gadgets

Large pot or Dutch oven – for cooking the soup in one vessel
Chef’s knife – to dice the onion and mince the garlic
Cutting board – for prepping vegetables and herbs
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – for stirring the soup
Measuring spoons – to ensure accurate seasoning
Ladle – perfect for serving the soup into bowls
Grater (optional) – to freshly grate Parmesan cheese

From Start to Finish: Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes)

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, making sure not to let it burn.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in 1 teaspoon each of dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Step 3: Add the Tortellini

Once the soup is simmering, add the cheese tortellini directly into the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, typically about 3 to 5 minutes, until the tortellini are tender and cooked through.

Step 4: Incorporate the Greens

Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil. Let the spinach wilt in the hot soup for 1 to 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while warm and comforting.

Ingredient Flex Options

Protein boost: Add cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
Greens swap: Substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier texture.
Tortellini alternatives: Use gnocchi, ravioli, or any small pasta shape you prefer.
Broth variations: Chicken or beef broth can be used instead of vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
Cheese options: If you want to skip Parmesan, nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative.

Troubles You Can Avoid

Burning the garlic: Add garlic after the onion has softened to prevent bitterness.
Overcooked tortellini: Keep an eye on the cooking time as tortellini cooks quickly and can become mushy if left too long.
Bland soup: Taste as you go and season with salt and pepper gradually to ensure balanced flavor.
Wilted basil: Add fresh basil at the end of cooking to preserve its bright flavor and aroma.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

This Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes) is excellent for meal prep because it reheats beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup as the pasta tends to absorb liquid over time. For longer storage, freeze the soup without the tortellini, as pasta can become mushy after freezing and thawing. Cook fresh tortellini when you’re ready to enjoy the soup again.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried tortellini, but it will take a bit longer to cook. Follow the package instructions for cooking times and add accordingly to the simmering soup. Keep in mind that dried pasta may absorb more of the broth, so adjust the liquid amount if necessary.

What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil?

If fresh basil isn’t available, increase the amount of dried basil slightly or add other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano. However, fresh basil adds a unique brightness, so try to include it if possible.

Is there a way to make this soup creamier without adding cream?

Absolutely! You can blend a portion of the soup after cooking to create a creamy texture without dairy. Alternatively, adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of coconut milk can also enrich the soup while keeping it light.

Why is my soup watery after reheating?

When stored, the tortellini absorbs much of the broth, and upon reheating, the pasta can release some of that absorbed water back into the soup, making it seem watery. To fix this, simmer the soup for a few minutes to reduce excess liquid, or add a small amount of tomato paste to thicken the broth.

Weekend Projects

Creamy Tomato Basil Turkey Meatball Pasta – Try this delicious pasta dish that pairs beautifully with the flavors in the soup.
Roasted Garlic Tomato Basil Linguine – A perfect project for garlic lovers, this linguine highlights the rich roasted garlic and basil blend.
Homemade cheese tortellini – Challenge yourself by making fresh tortellini from scratch for an extra special soup experience.
Grow your own basil – Dedicate some weekend time to potting a basil plant so you always have fresh herbs on hand.

Bring It Home

This Tomato-Basil Tortellini Soup (30 Minutes) is the ultimate weeknight winner: quick, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. It’s a recipe that feels both indulgent and nourishing, perfect for when you want a homemade meal without fuss. The vibrant tomato and basil flavors complement the cheesy tortellini beautifully, while the spinach adds freshness and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this soup will warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Keep this recipe in your culinary arsenal for an easy, comforting meal that you can enjoy year-round.

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