Description
Cheesy Tortellini Tomato Soup
Add a spicy kick to your tortellini soup for a bold and flavorful experience!
Ingredients:
2 cups cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups tomato puree
2 cups chicken stock
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Shredded mozzarella for topping
Steps:
Heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic.
Add tomato puree, chicken stock, and chili flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
Cook tortellini until tender.
Serve with a sprinkle of mozzarella and extra chili flakes for heat!
#SpicyTortelliniSoup
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfectly creamy and spicy soup.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
- Pour in the tomato puree and chicken stock. Add the red chili flakes. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook, uncovered, for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Reduce the heat to low. Slowly stir in the heavy cream. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow the soup to heat through gently; do not boil after adding the cream.
- While the soup simmers, cook the cheese tortellini separately according to package directions in salted water. Drain.
- To serve, ladle the creamy tomato soup into bowls. Add a portion of cooked tortellini to each bowl. Top with shredded mozzarella and an extra pinch of chili flakes if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with crusty garlic bread or a simple side salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken along with the tortellini. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How-to Summary
Sauté onion and garlic. Simmer with tomato puree, stock, and chili flakes. Stir in cream and season. Cook tortellini separately. Combine in bowls and top with mozzarella.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried tortellini instead of fresh? Yes, you can use dried tortellini. Cook it separately according to package directions and add it to the soup just before serving to prevent it from becoming too soft.
How can I make this soup vegetarian? Easily! Substitute the chicken stock for a high-quality vegetable broth. Ensure your tortellini is also vegetarian-friendly, as some contain meat in the filling.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? You can prepare the creamy tomato soup base ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the tortellini fresh when ready to serve and add it to the reheated soup.
How do I adjust the spice level? Control the heat by starting with 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes. You can always add more at the end. For a milder flavor, use smoked paprika instead.
My soup seems too thick. How can I thin it? Simply add a splash more chicken stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Remember the tortellini will also absorb some liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling after adding cream: This can cause the soup to curdle. Always stir in the cream on low heat and avoid bringing it back to a boil.
- Overcooking the tortellini in the soup: Cooking the pasta directly in the soup can make it mushy and thicken the soup too much. Cook it separately.
- Underseasoning: Tomato-based soups need ample seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end, after the cream has been added.
- Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly. Add it after the onions are soft and cook for only about 60 seconds to unlock its flavor without bitterness.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Tortellini Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food with a welcome spicy kick. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a restaurant-quality dish that is both elegant and easy. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. The combination of creamy tomato broth, tender pasta, and melted cheese is guaranteed to become a family favorite.
