Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

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by Amelia

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Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Quick and easy, Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is the perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. This one-pot meal combines flavorful Italian mini meatballs with tender cheese tortellini in a rich tomato broth. It’s not only satisfying but also versatile enough to suit any occasion—from family dinners to casual get-togethers.

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time enjoying your meal. Everything cooks together in one pot for easy cleanup.
  • Flavorful Comfort: The combination of beef broth, tomatoes, and Italian seasonings creates a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul.
  • Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or herbs to make it uniquely yours.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Perfect for friends and family, this soup is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Measuring spoons
  • Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

  • Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for making soups as they hold heat well and allow even cooking.
  • Cutting board and chef’s knife: Essential for quickly dicing vegetables and preparing ingredients efficiently.
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Ingredients

To make this delightful Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 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

How to Make Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

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 an additional minute.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the following:
* The entire contents of the 28-ounce can of undrained petite diced tomatoes.
* The full can of tomato sauce.
* 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.
* The beef broth (4 cups).
* The thawed package of frozen Italian mini meatballs.

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

Step 3: Add Tortellini

After simmering, add the fresh cheese tortellini pasta (20 ounces) to the soup. Cook just until tender—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir in half a cup of shredded Parmesan cheese at this point.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

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

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup!

How to Serve Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

  • Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of crusty baguette alongside the soup for dipping.
  • Garlic Bread – A warm piece of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the cheesy flavors in the soup.
  • Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls are great for soaking up the delicious broth.

As a Complete Meal

  • Salad on the Side – A light mixed greens salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Pairing the soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich creates a nostalgic comfort food combination.

Garnished to Perfection

  • Fresh Herbs – Top each bowl with chopped basil or parsley for an aromatic finish.
  • Extra Cheese – Offer additional shredded Parmesan cheese for those who want to amp up the cheesiness.

How to Perfect Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

To ensure your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup turns out amazing every time, follow these handy tips.

  • Use Quality Ingredients – Choose fresh tortellini and high-quality beef broth for richer flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook Tortellini – Add tortellini only when the soup is simmering to avoid mushy pasta.
  • Adjust Seasonings – Taste your soup before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
  • Experiment with Greens – Try adding spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Pair your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup with these delicious side dishes that complement its flavors beautifully.

  1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings crisp romaine and tangy dressing to balance the warmth of the soup.
  2. Caprese Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil skewers add a refreshing bite that pairs well with rich soups.
  3. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables provide a hearty side option.
  4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add delightful textures and flavors alongside your soup.
  5. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad can be a light counterpoint to the warmth of the soup.
  6. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – These fluffy biscuits bring extra cheesiness and make for excellent dipping companions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:

  • Skipping the sauté step: Failing to sauté the onions and garlic can lead to a bland flavor. Always take the time to soften these aromatics for better depth.
  • Not using enough seasoning: Under-seasoning can dull the taste of your soup. Taste as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to enhance flavors.
  • Overcooking tortellini: If you let the tortellini cook too long, they may become mushy. Follow package instructions closely and check for doneness regularly.
  • Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the overall taste. Opt for a rich beef broth or homemade stock for maximum flavor.
  • Not garnishing: Skipping garnishes like fresh herbs or extra cheese can make your soup less visually appealing and flavorful. Always finish with a garnish for presentation and taste.
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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Let the soup cool completely before sealing it in containers.

Freezing Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

  • Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
  • Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

  • Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and transfer soup to an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
  • Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup:

Can I customize my Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup?

Crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with this comforting soup.

How do I store leftover Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I use different types of meatballs in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute turkey or chicken meatballs based on your preference.

Is this Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prepping since it reheats well and maintains its flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup


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

Description

Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This flavorful one-pot meal combines tender cheese tortellini with savory Italian mini meatballs in a rich tomato broth, making it a satisfying dish that warm both hearts and bellies. With just 30 minutes from preparation to table, this soup is not only quick but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this hearty soup promises to please even the pickiest eaters.


Ingredients

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  • 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

Instructions

  1. 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 an additional minute.
  2. Stir in the following: the entire contents of the 28-ounce can of undrained petite diced tomatoes, the full can of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, the beef broth (4 cups), and the thawed package of frozen Italian mini meatballs. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
  3. After simmering, add the fresh cheese tortellini pasta (20 ounces) to the soup. Cook just until tender—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Stir in half a cup of shredded Parmesan cheese at this point.
  4. Taste your soup and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls. Garnish with additional shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley if you like before serving immediately.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 ½ cups)
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 870mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

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