Description
This hearty soup combines tender, flavorful Italian meatballs and cheese-filled tortellini in a rich tomato broth, simmered with herbs and vegetables. It’s comforting, nourishing, and perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- Ground beef and/or pork
- Breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Egg
- Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Garlic, minced
- Onion, finely diced
- Carrots and celery, diced
- Olive oil
- Chicken or beef broth
- Crushed tomatoes
- Cheese tortellini
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Make the meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs (~1‑in).
- Brown the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium. Brown meatballs until sealed (they’ll finish cooking in the soup). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened (4–5 minutes).
- Build the broth: Add broth and crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
- Simmer meatballs: Return meatballs to pot, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add tortellini: Stir in tortellini and cook per package instructions until tender.
- Finish with greens: If using, stir in spinach or kale until wilted.
- Season and serve: Adjust salt and pepper, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute ground chicken, turkey, or sausage for the meatballs.
- Use spinach-filled tortellini or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
- Add diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Make it spicy with red pepper flakes or Italian sausage.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta or drizzle of pesto for extra richness.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
- Freeze: Seal in a freezer-safe container (leave out tortellini if preferred); freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg