If you’re craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, look no further than this delightful Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe. It brings together tender, savory meatballs and soft, cheesy tortellini in a rich tomato broth loaded with fresh spinach and Italian herbs. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this soup is an absolute show-stopper that’s quick to prepare yet packed with comforting flavor that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making a standout soup. Each component plays a crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this soup irresistible and balanced.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky richness and serves as the perfect base for sautéing aromatics.
- Small onion, chopped: Provides a sweet, mild foundation that deepens the soup’s flavor.
- Garlic, minced: Offers a fragrant punch that brightens every spoonful.
- Beef broth: Creates a robust, savory liquid base full of depth.
- Water: Balances the broth concentration for the perfect consistency.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained: Bring freshness, acidity, and vibrancy to the soup.
- Tomato sauce: Thickens and enriches the broth while enhancing tomato flavor.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties the whole dish together.
- Salt: Enhances all the other flavors naturally.
- Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and earthiness.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick to warm things up.
- Refrigerated cheese tortellini: Soft, cheesy pockets that make this soup uniquely satisfying.
- Small cooked meatballs: Juicy and flavorful, these protein-packed bites are the heart of the soup.
- Fresh spinach, chopped: Adds bright color and a healthy green boost.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: A finishing touch that melts into the broth, adding a salty, nutty note.
- Fresh basil or parsley: Garnishes that bring freshness and aroma to every bowl.
How to Make Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and tender, about 3 to 4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for just 30 seconds until fragrant. This foundation unlocks the amazing base flavor you’ll taste throughout the soup.
Step 2: Build the broth
Next, pour in the beef broth and water, followed by the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato sauce. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Give everything a good stir and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This step harmonizes all your flavors and prepares the cozy home for the rest of the ingredients.
Step 3: Add meatballs and tortellini
Once your broth is bubbling, carefully add the cooked meatballs along with the refrigerated cheese tortellini. Simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the tortellini are tender but still hold their shape. This is the moment where the magic happens—each bite packed with meaty richness and cheesy comfort intertwined perfectly in the broth.
Step 4: Finish with spinach and cheese
Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it wilt gently, just a minute or two. Then remove the pot from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, letting it melt slightly into the soup. This finishing touch adds vibrant color, freshness, and a layer of savory creaminess that makes each bowl unforgettable.
How to Serve Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe even more, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley right before serving. These herbs add a pop of green and a lovely fragrant finish that brightens the entire dish. Don’t forget an extra pinch of Parmesan cheese on top if you’re a cheese lover like me!
Side Dishes
This soup is comforting enough to stand alone but pairs wonderfully with warm, crusty bread or garlic knots that are perfect for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette also balances the richness of the soup, adding a fresh, crisp contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a gathering, serve the Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe in charming soup crocks or mini bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan shavings. You can also ladle it into small bread bowls for a rustic, fun presentation that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier next-day meal. Just be sure to keep the soup refrigerated promptly to maintain its freshness.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, keep in mind that the texture of the tortellini may change slightly when thawed. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the consistency as the tortellini can absorb liquid while resting.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs in this soup?
Absolutely! Frozen meatballs are a convenient time-saver and work perfectly well. Just be sure they are fully cooked before adding to the soup, or allow a few extra minutes for them to heat through thoroughly.
What can I substitute for cheese tortellini?
If you can’t find cheese tortellini, cheese ravioli or other filled pasta will work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions to avoid overcooking.
Is this soup spicy?
The recipe includes optional red pepper flakes, so you can control the heat. Leave them out for a milder taste, or add more if you love a fiery kick!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and replace meatballs with plant-based alternatives or hearty mushrooms. The soup remains delicious and full of comfort without the meat.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe is a quick meal, with about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want comfort food without the wait.
Final Thoughts
Making this Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe is like inviting a warm friend to your kitchen—always satisfying, always comforting. Whether you’re new to homemade soup or a seasoned cook, this recipe brings ease and incredible flavor to your table. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to favorites for cozy, delicious meals.
Print
Meatball and Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A hearty and comforting Meatball and Tortellini Soup featuring flavorful meatballs, tender cheese tortellini, fresh spinach, and a savory tomato broth. This easy-to-make soup combines Italian seasonings with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 20 small cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Garnish
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in beef broth, water, diced tomatoes with their juice, and tomato sauce. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer with meatballs and tortellini: Add the cooked meatballs to the pot. Carefully drop the cheese tortellini into the simmering soup. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, or until tortellini are tender and cooked through.
- Finish with spinach and garnish: Stir in chopped fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted. Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- You can use homemade or frozen cooked meatballs depending on convenience.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to suit your preferred level of spiciness or omit for a milder soup.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute vegetable broth and omit meatballs, or use plant-based meat alternatives.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Ensure tortellini is cooked just until tender to prevent it from becoming mushy.
