Description
This hearty and flavorful tortellini soup with meat is the ultimate comfort food. With tender meat-filled tortellini, a rich broth, and a medley of vegetables, it’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this soup is a family favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, thyme, and oregano)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated or frozen meat or cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, sausage, or shredded chicken. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (if using). Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and the bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the vegetables to become tender.
- Cook the Tortellini: Add the tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes) until they are tender.
- Add Greens (Optional): Stir in fresh spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.