Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Quick and easy, Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This one-pot wonder combines the delightful flavors of cheese tortellini, savory meatballs, and a rich tomato broth. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or need a quick weeknight meal, this soup will satisfy everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with all ingredients cooked in just one pot.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese brings depth to every spoonful.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite bread for dipping.
• Family-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness and hearty meatballs, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup effortless. Gather these essential items before you start cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups, allowing ample space for all ingredients while ensuring even heat distribution.
• Measuring spoons: Help you accurately measure ingredients for consistent flavor every time.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring no ingredients stick to the bottom.
• Ladle: Makes serving the soup clean and easy, allowing you to portion out perfect bowls.

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 Onions 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
* 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce
* 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning
* 4 cups of beef broth
* The thawed 20-ounce package of frozen Italian mini meatballs

Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, 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 just until the tortellini are tender; this usually takes about 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 the hot soup into individual bowls. Garnish with additional shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving immediately.

How to Serve Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

Serving Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup can elevate your dining experience. This comforting dish is perfect for casual family dinners or entertaining friends. Here are some great serving suggestions to complement your soup.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. It absorbs the delicious broth and adds a satisfying crunch.

Offer Grated Cheese on the Side

• Provide extra shredded Parmesan cheese at the table so guests can customize their soup according to their taste.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.

Include a Side of Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrition to your meal, making it well-rounded and hearty.

How to Perfect Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

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

• Use high-quality ingredients: Fresh herbs, quality cheese, and good broth will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
• Don’t overcook the tortellini: Follow package instructions carefully; overcooking can lead to mushy pasta that detracts from the dish’s texture.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste your soup as it cooks and add salt or pepper in small amounts to prevent overpowering flavors.
• Simmer gently: A gentle simmer helps meld all the flavors without losing the integrity of the meatballs and tortellini.
• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

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

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttered bread infused with garlic complements the savory flavors of the soup perfectly.
2. Caprese Salad: A refreshing mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze adds brightness to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and croutons offers a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.
4. Grilled Veggie Skewers: Colorful skewers of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms provide a healthy addition full of flavor.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar paired with crackers can be an excellent start to your meal.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa offer a hearty side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
7. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a filling and delightful companion dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup can be quick and easy, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the quality of your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Tortellini: If you let the tortellini cook too long, they can become mushy. Add them to the soup towards the end of cooking for the best texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Failing to taste and season your soup can result in bland flavors. Always adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Not Using Thawed Meatballs: Cooking frozen meatballs directly in the soup can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to thaw them beforehand for a consistent texture.
• Ignoring Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness to your soup. Don’t skip them; add them just before serving for maximum flavor.
• Using Cold Broth: Starting with cold broth can delay cooking time. Warm it up first to help bring your soup to a boil faster.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it lasts up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, reheating until hot.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high in intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup that may help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use different types of meatballs?

You can certainly use chicken or turkey meatballs as alternatives for a lighter option. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the soup.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of cheesy meatball tortellini soup, swap meatballs with plant-based ones and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to include them early enough so they cook through properly.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or any cozy meal occasion. Give this delicious recipe a try!

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Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup

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

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Description

Enjoy a warm bowl of Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup that’s quick and easy! Try this comforting recipe today for a satisfying meal.

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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

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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 1 additional minute.
2. Stir in 1 (28-ounce) can of undrained petite diced tomatoes, 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 4 cups of beef broth, and the thawed 20-ounce package of frozen Italian mini meatballs. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
3. Add the 20 ounces of fresh refrigerated cheese tortellini pasta to the simmering soup. Cook just until the tortellini are tender; this usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Stir in ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese.
4. Taste the soup and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls. Garnish with additional shredded Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley if desired before serving immediately.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (240g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 40mg