I absolutely love how this Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe comes together in a flash yet feels so comforting and rich. It’s one of those meals that’s perfect on a chilly evening when you want something cozy without a ton of fuss. Plus, the combination of tangy sun-dried tomatoes and creamy broth makes it truly unique and memorable.
When I first tried this soup, I was surprised at how quickly it became a family favorite. You’ll find that the tender cheese-filled tortellini and hearty spinach give the soup great texture and nutrition. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful dinner that’s guaranteed to warm you up and impress, this Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe is definitely worth a try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: Sun-dried tomatoes add a bright and tangy punch to the rich creamy broth.
- Family Friendly: Even picky eaters love the cheesy tortellini soaking up all the goodness.
- Versatile Comfort: Great as a light lunch or hearty dinner with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe blend beautifully to create layers of flavor without overwhelming you. I recommend grabbing high-quality sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil for the best taste and easy sautéeing.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes with Italian Seasoning: These bring a zesty tang and herby depth, plus their oil is perfect for sautéing.
- Frozen Sliced Carrots: Add a subtle sweetness and texture to balance the savory broth.
- Minced Garlic: A must for that classic aromatic kick.
- Italian Seasoning: Provides an herby warmth that ties all the ingredients together.
- Vegetable Broth: The soup’s base; make sure it’s flavorful for the best results.
- Tomato Sauce: Gives the soup a rich tomato body and color.
- Spinach and Cheese Tortellini: The star of the soup, tender pockets of cheesy goodness.
- Frozen Chopped Spinach: Adds extra greenery and healthy nutrients easily.
- Heavy Cream: For that dreamy creamy texture and luscious finish.
- Fresh Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional): A finishing garnish that amps up the umami.
- Fresh Chopped Basil (optional): For a fresh herbal note that brightens each bowl.
Variations
I love tweaking this Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe depending on the season or what I have on hand. Feel free to personalize it — it’s very forgiving and welcoming of substitutions.
- Protein Boost: I sometimes add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra heartiness.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew cream for a similar silky effect without dairy.
- Greens Swap: Kale or Swiss chard work well in place of spinach, just adjust cooking time slightly.
- Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of spicy warmth if you like.
How to Make Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe
Step 1: Start with the Flavors in the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of that flavorful oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes over medium heat in a large stockpot. This oil is packed with Italian seasoning and tomato flavor, so it’s a great base. Then, add your frozen sliced carrots, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Sauté everything for about 3-5 minutes until you see the carrots start to soften and the garlic smells amazing — just be careful not to burn it!
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
Next, pour in the vegetable broth and the can of tomato sauce — this is going to make the soup rich and vibrant. Then, add in the sun-dried tomatoes from the jar, but make sure to discard the remaining oil for a healthier finish. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a low boil.
Step 3: Add Tortellini and Spinach
Once the soup is gently boiling, add the spinach and cheese tortellini along with the frozen chopped spinach. Cover the pot and let it cook for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and watch for the tortellini to become tender but still hold their shape. The broth will reduce slightly, resulting in a thick and hearty soup.
Step 4: Finish with Cream
Remove the soup from heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. This is the magic touch that makes the Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe so creamy and indulgent. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then it’s ready to serve hot.
Pro Tips for Making Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe
- Use the Sun-Dried Tomato Oil: Don’t toss out that oil — it adds amazing flavor when you sauté your aromatics!
- Cook Tortellini just right: Keep an eye on your tortellini so it’s tender but not mushy — the timing can vary by brand.
- Creamy Finish: Stir in the heavy cream off the heat to avoid curdling and keep it silky smooth.
- Avoid Watery Soup: Don’t skip reducing the soup for the full 10-15 minutes — it really develops the flavor and body.
How to Serve Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe
Garnishes
I always finish this soup with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese — it melts into the cream for an extra cheesy boost. Fresh basil leaves chopped on top add just a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. It’s simple but elevates the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
Because the soup is so filling, I like pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread for dipping. A warm baguette or even cheesy focaccia makes the meal even more comforting without extra effort.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I’ve served the Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls — everyone loves the rustic charm and the edible vessel! You could also layer it in individual ramekins topped with cheese and broiled briefly for a golden crust.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers, I transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. The flavors usually deepen overnight, making it even better the next day. Just be aware the tortellini will absorb some broth and thicken the soup as it sits.
Freezing
I generally don’t freeze this soup because the cream and tortellini don’t freeze well together—they can separate or become grainy. If you want to freeze it, try freezing without the cream and add it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, I warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or curdling the cream. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. It tastes just as wonderful the second day when handled with care.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen in this soup?
Absolutely! If using fresh spinach, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking and cook until wilted. This prevents overcooking and helps maintain a vibrant green color and texture.
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What type of tortellini works best for this soup?
I recommend spinach and cheese tortellini for the classic flavor combo, but any cheese-filled tortellini will work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the package instructions.
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Can I make this soup vegan?
You can! Use a plant-based tortellini or dumplings, vegetable broth, omit the cream or substitute with coconut or cashew cream, and skip cheese garnishes or use vegan Parmesan alternatives.
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How long can I store the soup in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last about 3 days in the refrigerator. For best taste, consume within this timeframe.
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Is there a good way to thicken the soup if it’s too watery?
If your soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors. Alternatively, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water carefully and cook until thickened.
Final Thoughts
This Tortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl every time I make it. It’s simple enough to whip up on any night, but the flavors feel special — perfect for when you want comforting food that doesn’t take all day. I’m so glad I discovered this recipe and I hope it becomes one of your go-to soups too. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and make it your own; cooking should be joyful and easy!
PrintTortellini Spinach Soup with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This creamy Tortellini Soup with Spinach is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Combining cheese-filled tortellini, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a rich blend of tomato sauce and heavy cream, this soup offers a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and creamy notes. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and fresh basil, it delivers a hearty yet elegant dinner option that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Sun-Dried Tomato Base
- 8.5 ounces jar of sun-dried tomatoes with Italian seasoning, divided
- 2 Tablespoons oil from the sun-dried tomato jar
Vegetables & Seasoning
- 1 cup frozen, sliced carrots
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup frozen, chopped spinach
Liquid & Pasta
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 15 ounces can of tomato sauce
- 12 ounces package of spinach and cheese tortellini
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
Garnishes (Optional)
- Fresh grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped basil
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Prepare Base: Heat 2 tablespoons of the oil from the sun-dried tomato jar over medium heat in a large saucepan or stockpot. Set the remaining sun-dried tomatoes aside for later use.
- Sauté Vegetables and Seasoning: Add the frozen sliced carrots, minced garlic, and ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning to the hot oil. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the carrot edges soften, releasing aromatic flavors.
- Add Broth, Tomato Sauce, and Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth, tomato sauce, and all the sun-dried tomatoes from the jar (reserve and discard the leftover oil). Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients well.
- Bring to a Simmer and Add Pasta & Spinach: Bring the mixture to a low boil. Then add the package of spinach and cheese tortellini along with the frozen chopped spinach.
- Cook Tortellini and Reduce Soup: Cover the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes, letting the tortellini cook through and the liquid thicken into a rich, hearty soup consistency.
- Finish with Cream: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream gently to create a velvety texture and rich flavor.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh grated parmesan cheese and chopped basil if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and comfort.
Notes
- Use the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes to add depth and flavor to the soup base, but discard the remaining oil after adding the tomatoes to avoid excess oiliness.
- For a vegetarian meal, ensure the vegetable broth is vegetarian-friendly.
- Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen if preferred; add it towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Adjust the seasoning by adding salt or pepper if needed before serving.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximate)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg