Learn how to make a mouthwatering and hassle-free easy Tortellini Soup that will satisfy your cravings in no time. This simple soup packs a big flavor punch with only 15 minutes of prep time – so it's perfect for busy weeknight dinners! Serve with a loaf of cheesy garlic bread.
This recipe is such a timesaver! Buying the tortellinis from the supermarket are a quick and easy tip to making tortellini soup. No on has time to make fresh pasta for a busy weeknight dinner, so don't pasta shame me! 🤣
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and effortless preparation
- Delicious and satisfying flavors
- Hearty and filling meal option
- Perfect for busy weeknights
- Comforting and warm on chilly days
- Enjoyed by both kids and adults
Key Ingredients
- Protein - chicken breast or use a shredded rotisserie chicken
- Soup Broth - easy store-bought chicken stock
- Tortellini - packet from the supermarket
- Vegetables - celery carrots, tomatoes, zucchini
- Aromatics - onion, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, basil
- Parmesan Cheese
How to Make Easy Tortellini Soup
- Prepare Chicken - heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breast pieces and fry until golden brown (about 7 minutes). Set aside. If using rotisserie chicken, shred into pieces and set aside.
- Saute - heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent. Add carrots and celery and cook until softened.
- Add Chicken Broth - followed by the chopped tomatoes (including the juice). Stir in the basil, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer - when soup is simmering, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. If using fresh tortellini, it will typically take around 2-3 minutes to cook, while frozen tortellini may require 5-7 minutes.
- Finish - once the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir in chopped zucchini and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Season - taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve it hot and enjoy!
Vegetable Tortellini Soup
Elevate this easy tortellini soup by adding fresh vegetables. Always use what's in season because it's fresh and economical. Mix and match your favorite vegetables. Here are some suggestions;
- fresh spinach leaves - mix through just before serving
- can of white beans - adds fibre, and is super economical
- broccoli - adds texture and fibre
- beet leaves - this underrated vegetable is full of vitamins, mix through before serving
- kale - low calorie and high in iron
- red peppers - adds sweeteness and color
- green beans - saute fresh or mix in canned beans
Tortellini Soup Variations
- Creamy Tortellini Soup - add a creamy element to your soup by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking. This will give your soup a rich and velvety texture.
- Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup - brown some Italian sausage in a separate pan before adding it to the soup. The savory flavors of the sausage will infuse into the broth, adding an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup - increase the tomato flavor by adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste along with the chopped tomatoes. Enhance the herbaceousness by adding fresh basil leaves instead of dried basil flakes.
- Spinach and Mushroom Tortellini Soup - sauté sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic to give your soup an earthy taste. Stir in fresh or frozen spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Pesto Tortellini Soup - stir in a few tablespoons of your pesto sauce into the soup just before serving. The aromatic flavors of basil and garlic in the pesto will elevate the overall taste.
Recipe Tips and FAQs
- Use high-quality tortellini - opt for fresh or frozen tortellini from a reputable brand or a local market. This will ensure a delicious and satisfying texture in your soup.
- Adjust the broth consistency - if you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a little more broth or water. Conversely, if you like a thicker soup, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to let some of the liquid evaporate.
- Cook tortellini separately (for leftovers) - planning to have leftovers, consider cooking the tortellini separately and adding it to individual servings. This will prevent the pasta from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken - enjoy the convenience and depth of flavor from pre-cooked chicken, whether you grab it from Costco or shred leftover roast chicken.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh or frozen?
Yes, you can use dried tortellini, but keep in mind that the cooking time may be longer. Follow the instructions on the package and adjust accordingly.
Q: Can I substitute the vegetable or chicken broth? A: Yes, you can use any broth of your choice, such as beef or mushroom broth, to suit your taste preferences. You can also use a combination of broth and water for a milder flavor.
Can I make tortellini soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. However, it's best to cook the tortellini separately and add it to individual servings when reheating to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze tortellini soup?
Yes, you can freeze tortellini soup. However, it's recommended to freeze it without the pasta and add cooked tortellini when you're ready to serve. Store the soup in an airtight container or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Defrost in fridge before re-heating in a pot.
Soup Recipes You'll Love
- Beet Borscht
- Easy Thai Chicken Coconut Soup
- Turkey Wonton Soup
- Italian Minestrone Soup
- Chinese Chicken and Corn Soup
- Bread Bowl Clam Chowder
- Traditional Hungarian Goulash
- Russian Cabbage Soup
- Pumpkin and Leek Soup
Easy tortellini soup is a fantastic go-to meal that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort in one bowl. Whether you're a busy and need a quick and satisfying dinner option or a food lover looking to explore different variations, this versatile soup has got you covered with plenty of leftovers. This soup will warm your heart and nourish your soul. Bon Appetit! Приятного аппетита!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (500g) chicken breast, chopped or rotisserie chicken
- 2 onions diced
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 carrots sliced
- 3 celery stalks sliced
- 3 cartons of 32oz chicken stock (3 litres)
- 3 tomatoes chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- bunch fresh basil
- 19 oz (600g) fresh tortellini
- 2 small zucchinis cut in half then sliced
- grated parmesan cheese
- salt and pepper to taste
- oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped chicken breast pieces and fry until golden brown (about 7 minutes). Set aside. If using rotisserie chicken, shred into pieces and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Add carrots and celery and cook until softened.
- Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the chopped tomatoes (including the juice). Stir in the basil, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once the soup is simmering, add the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions. If using fresh tortellini, it will typically take around 2-3 minutes to cook, while frozen tortellini may require 5-7 minutes.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken. Stir in chopped zucchini and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Serve it hot and enjoy!
©PetersFoodAdventures.com *originally posted October 2016, updated May 2023
