This Spinach Tortellini Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features yummy cheese-filled tortellini, fresh spinach, and a flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days!
I love how quick it is to make! Just cook everything in one pot, and in no time, you have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Grab a piece of bread to dip—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil gives a nice flavor when sautéing. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use canola or vegetable oil instead, but I recommend olive for the taste!
Onion: A small onion adds depth to the soup. You can swap it with shallots for a milder taste or even use leeks if you have them on hand.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon instead.
Carrots: They add sweetness and color. If you don’t have carrots, chopped celery or bell peppers can also add a nice touch.
Broth: Chicken broth gives great flavor, but vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian option. You could also use homemade broth if you have it handy!
Tortellini: Refrigerated cheese tortellini is convenient. You could use any pasta shape if needed, but keep in mind that cook times will vary.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach is my go-to, but you can swap it with kale for a heartier texture. Just chop it a bit more finely!
How Do I Make Sure My Tortellini is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking tortellini is straightforward, but follow these steps to ensure they’re not overcooked:
- Wait until the broth is boiling before adding the tortellini. This helps them cook evenly.
- Check the package instructions for cooking time, as it can vary by brand.
- Once they float to the top, give them an extra minute or so, but avoid letting them sit too long, or they’ll become mushy!
Following these tips will help you enjoy perfectly tender tortellini in your warm soup!
How to Make Spinach Tortellini Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 package (9-12 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Spinach Tortellini Soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15-20 minutes to cook on the stove. In total, you’re looking at roughly 30-35 minutes before you can enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots. Sauté them together until the onion is translucent and the carrots begin to soften, which will take about 5 minutes. This step brings out the flavors!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you’re going for a vegetarian option) and bring everything to a boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
4. Cook the Tortellini:
Once the broth is boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the cheese tortellini and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually around 3-5 minutes. The tortellini are ready when they float to the top and are tender!
5. Add Spinach and Season:
Now, stir in the fresh spinach and Italian seasoning (if using). Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach is wilted. This will add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your soup!
6. Final Seasoning:
Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra treat, serve it with some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Spinach Tortellini Soup!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup. Frozen spinach typically requires less cooking time, so stir it in just a minute or two before serving.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage, but keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly upon reheating.
Can I Substitute Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! If you don’t have tortellini, you can use any small pasta shape like farfalle, penne, or even orzo. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
What Can I Add for Extra Protein?
If you’re looking to boost the protein in this soup, consider adding cooked chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through!
