Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Quick and comforting, Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This one-pot meal combines tender cheese tortellini with savory Italian meatballs in a rich tomato broth, making it a delightful choice for all occasions. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this soup stands out with its creamy texture and mouthwatering flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, you can whip up this delicious soup in just 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, tomatoes, and Italian seasonings creates a deeply satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use frozen mini meatballs and fresh tortellini for convenience. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for leftovers, ideal for lunch or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Crowd-Pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone will enjoy the cheesy goodness of this comforting soup.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware and ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 (28 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups beef broth

For the Meatballs and Tortellini

• 1 (20 ounce) package frozen Italian mini meatballs, thawed
• 20 ounces fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini pasta

For Garnishing

• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

How to Make Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, approximately 2-3 minutes. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and continue cooking, stirring constantly, for 1 additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the following:
1. 28-ounce can of undrained petite diced tomatoes
2. 15-ounce can of tomato sauce
3. 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
4. 4 cups of beef broth
5. Thawed 20-ounce package of frozen Italian mini meatballs

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.

Step 3: Add Tortellini

Add the 20 ounces of fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini pasta to the simmering soup. Cook until the tortellini are tender (approximately 5-7 minutes). Stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Taste the soup and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle hot soup into individual bowls. Garnish with additional shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley before serving immediately.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Serving Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with a few simple additions. This soup is hearty and comforting, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last bit of the flavorful broth.

Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup, providing freshness and crunch to your meal.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

• A classic grilled cheese sandwich offers a nostalgic touch that complements the cheesy flavors of the soup, making it an ideal pairing for a cozy dinner.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor that brightens the dish.

With Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, adding extra shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving creates a gooey, indulgent experience.

How to Perfect Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality broth enhance flavor and nutrition in your soup.
• Mind the seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper gradually to avoid over-seasoning.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Add them towards the end of cooking to keep them tender and avoid mushiness.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick or bay leaf for depth.
• Make it ahead: The flavors deepen if you prepare the soup a day in advance; just reheat before serving.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Pairing side dishes with Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   A buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich tomato broth.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing create a refreshing counterpoint to the warm soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasoned and roasted seasonal vegetables add texture and nutrients while complementing the soup’s flavors.
4. Caprese Skewers
   Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil on skewers provide a fresh bite that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
5. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a filling side that adds variety alongside the soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory soups.
7. Bruschetta
   Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a vibrant flavor contrast to each spoonful of soup.
8. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide comforting crunchiness that everyone will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold broth or meatballs can lower the soup’s temperature. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.
• Overcooking Tortellini: Cooking tortellini for too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for tenderness around the 5-minute mark.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping on salt and pepper can result in bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to enhance flavor.
• Not Using Enough Broth: A soupy dish needs enough liquid to be enjoyable. Don’t skimp on broth; use the full amount specified in the recipe.
• Skipping Garnishes: Garnishes like fresh herbs or extra cheese add flavor and visual appeal. Don’t skip these finishing touches for a complete dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in airtight containers.
• The soup will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup.

Can I use other types of meatballs?

You can absolutely substitute with turkey or chicken meatballs depending on your preference.

How can I customize my Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.

What should I serve with Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, choose gluten-free tortellini and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it offers great versatility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or changing the type of meatballs used. Try this delightful recipe today!

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Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the comforting goodness of Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup, a delightful one-pot meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. This soup features tender cheese tortellini and savory Italian meatballs simmering in a rich tomato broth, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The creamy texture and robust flavors make it an instant favorite among family and friends. Customize this dish by adding fresh vegetables or herbs for an extra touch. Enjoy a warm bowl of this satisfying soup that is sure to please everyone at the table!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 (28 ounce) can petite diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 (20 ounce) package frozen Italian mini meatballs, thawed
• 20 ounces fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini pasta
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Stir in petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, beef broth, and thawed mini meatballs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 minutes.
3. Add fresh cheese tortellini to the pot and cook until tender (about 5-7 minutes). Mix in shredded Parmesan cheese.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese and chopped herbs.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 40mg