Simple Tortellini Soup Recipe

Name: Simple Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 8
Ingredients: 2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth; 1 (16 ounce) package cheese tortellini; 1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes; 1 (15.5 ounce) can white kidney beans (cannellini), rinsed and drained; 0.5 zucchini, sliced; 1 tablespoon red wine vinaigrette; 1 teaspoon basil; ground black pepper to taste; 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Cook Time: 15 minutes

This delightful soup combines cheese-filled tortellini with a mix of fresh vegetables and savory chicken broth. Perfect for a comforting meal, its easy to prepare and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
1 (16 ounce) package cheese tortellini
1 (14.5 ounce) can Italian-style diced tomatoes
1 (15.5 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 zucchini, sliced
1 tablespoon red wine vinaigrette
1 teaspoon basil
Ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, or to taste

Directions

Step 1: Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Add the tortellini to the boiling broth and cook according to package instructions, typically about 6 minutes, until tender.

Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, sliced zucchini, red wine vinaigrette, basil, and black pepper. Continue to cook for another 6 minutes or until the zucchini is tender.

Step 5: Once the soup is ready, remove from heat and serve. Top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese to enhance the flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving (8 servings total):

Calories: 249
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 905mg
Cholesterol: 29mg
Fiber: 4g
Vitamin C: 5mg
Calcium: 67mg
Iron: 2mg
Potassium: 94mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your individual calorie needs.

Simple Tortellini Soup Recipe

Author: Sara

History and Origins

Tortellini soup has its roots in Italy, particularly in the Emilia-Romagna region, where tortellini is a staple. This rich, stuffed pasta is typically filled with a combination of meat, cheese, or a mixture of both. The soup version of tortellini began as a way to create a comforting, warming meal using the pasta, often in a simple broth, and it has become a popular choice for Italian families during the colder months. Over time, various regions in Italy and beyond have adapted the dish with local ingredients, giving it unique twists while maintaining its core flavors.

Regional Features

The most well-known version of tortellini soup hails from Emilia-Romagna, the birthplace of tortellini itself. In this region, tortellini are traditionally made by hand and often filled with a mix of pork, prosciutto, and Parmesan cheese. In some regions of Italy, tortellini soup might also include vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or beans, reflecting the local agricultural produce. Each variation of tortellini soup can be a reflection of the ingredients most accessible to the cook, from the rich broths of Northern Italy to the light, vegetable-focused versions from the South.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What distinguishes tortellini soup from other similar pasta-based soups, such as minestrone or lasagna soup, is the use of tortellinismall, stuffed pasta pockets filled with either meat or cheese. Unlike minestrone, which often features a medley of vegetables and beans, tortellini soup focuses on the delicate flavors of the tortellini combined with a simple, savory broth. While lasagna soup also incorporates layers of pasta and a hearty tomato-based broth, tortellini soup is lighter and quicker to prepare. The addition of beans and vegetables, such as zucchini, creates a balance of flavors and textures that set tortellini soup apart from other pasta soups.

Where It Is Typically Served

Tortellini soup is commonly served as a comforting first course during family meals in Italy. It is particularly popular during colder months and is often enjoyed at family gatherings or festive occasions like Christmas. Outside of Italy, this soup has become a favorite in many homes across the world, thanks to its simple ingredients and ease of preparation. In the United States, it can often be found on restaurant menus that specialize in Italian or Mediterranean cuisine, and it is frequently served as a hearty lunch or dinner option. Some variations of tortellini soup are also commonly served in Italian trattorias or casual eateries, especially when paired with fresh, crusty bread.

Interesting Facts

Did you know that tortellini is sometimes referred to as "the belly button of Bologna"? This nickname comes from the shape of the pasta, which resembles a small ring or button, and is often said to be inspired by the shape of Venus' navel. In Italy, tortellini are traditionally filled with a mixture of meat (such as pork or chicken) and cheese, making them a satisfying and flavorful filling for soups. Another fun fact is that the birthplace of tortellini, Modena, hosts an annual festival dedicated to this iconic pasta. During the festival, locals celebrate all things tortellini, including different variations of tortellini soup!

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FAQ about Simple Tortellini Soup Recipe

Yes, you can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or beef broth for a heartier flavor.

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Yes, fresh tortellini can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen.

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen it if it thickens.

Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, carrots, or bell peppers. Simply sauté or cook them along with the zucchini for the same amount of time.

No, the soup is not gluten-free because it contains cheese tortellini, which is typically made with wheat flour. You can substitute gluten-free tortellini to make the soup gluten-free.

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Yes, you can add cooked ground meat, such as chicken, sausage, or beef, for added protein. Simply stir it in after the soup is finished cooking.

If you don't have red wine vinaigrette, you can substitute it with balsamic vinegar or a mix of olive oil and vinegar. You can also add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.

To adjust the flavor, you can add more herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary. For extra flavor, try adding garlic, onions, or a splash of lemon juice.

Comments

spice of life

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This had a lot of flavor. I added some garlic granules. I put everything in the crockpot at once and cooked on low for 4 hours. Will make this again--it is so easy and so flavorful.

Mary Armstrong

08/20/2024 11:19:06 PM

I also added spinach and had no red wine vinaigrette, so I replaced with Balsamic vinegar. I added the whole zucchini and microwaved it for 2 minutes before adding to soup. Delish!

libbylou

11/03/2017 11:01:01 PM

This was delicious and I will definitely make it again. I sautéed the zucchini with fresh garlic and added sliced mushrooms before adding it to the soup. I also chopped up whole peeled plum tomatoes instead of Italian diced and just added Italian herbs to the sautéed veggies. When it was almost done, I threw in some green onions. It was full of flavor and the whole family loved it.

joshua mckay

08/14/2024 01:03:56 AM

One of the best recipies on this site. Another commenter said to add Italian sausage so we tried that and it was jus the best thing to eat ever! Other really good recommendations include adding a handful of fresh spinach which was so super good and easy nutrients, then add some carrot shreds for more nutrients and tastyness! Well done.

Amybooter

01/09/2019 11:15:15 PM

This was awesome! We added hamburger as well as garlic and onions. It was so tasty and perfect for a cold night. I did add more broth and had black beans just because that is what I had on hand. We will definitely have it again. It was extremely easy

amyk3

11/10/2013 03:05:01 PM

I am rating this with only 4 stars because I altered the original recipe a bit. I doubled the broth and also added 1 thinly sliced carrot and 1 cup frozen peas. It was tremendous. Hearty and healthy. I also used mushroom tortellini and great Northern beans because that was what I had on hand. I absolutely loved this soup and it will be fun to try different ingredients with this soup. I will definitely be making this a lot during the winter!

Erin Young

03/15/2021 11:54:10 PM

I made this soup tonight. I love the simplicity! I added shredded carrots, chopped yellow bell pepper and scallions (didn’t have zucchini). Filling and tasty! I served with bruschetta I made from this app.

txcokergal

01/11/2021 06:45:30 PM

My husband loved this recipe! He also said it was better a couple of days later! I also added some spinach.

Mazarino

02/18/2015 05:11:59 PM

Hey, this was great! Very easy too. I added some frozen kale, onion powder, oregano, and garlic powder and substituted the beans for green peas. The red wine vinaigrette just made this. Thanks for a wonderful recipe that was a snap to make on short notice after a walk on a 12-degree F night! Warmed us up right.

Colleen Raemisch

03/18/2013 09:15:20 AM

This is excellent healthy comfort food! As we are not zucchini people I tore spinach leaves in the soup. We also added another can of italian diced tomatoes so the tortellini was a little less dominate. Will be a keeper in our home:)

Denise Mankell Morrow

12/23/2024 09:36:17 PM

I used two cans rotel and carrots annd onions instead of zuccini. And added garlic flakes.

Denise Mankell Morrow

12/23/2024 09:36:17 PM

I used two cans rotel and carrots annd onions instead of zuccini. And added garlic flakes.

James Carter

11/01/2024 05:58:14 AM

Tastes like it took hours, but it didn’t.

Nan Gaughf

12/09/2023 04:21:14 PM

Sounds delicious, will try it soon. I don’t think you can call it vegetarian since it has a chicken broth base.

jhennikayz3

01/29/2016 05:24:09 AM

This soup is absolutely delicious! I added corn and a little brown sugar. My entire family loved it. Even, I, who don't like spinach. This recipe is a keeper.

Suzan Ringlen

09/08/2015 02:50:50 AM

My husband made it and it came out great the only thing is the broth needs to be doubled and he added garlic and onion powder...very easy and good!

GOODGHOST9

06/30/2013 09:57:22 AM

I like this recipe a lot. I doubled the amount of chicken broth because I like more broth in my soup. I also omitted the red wine vinaigrette because I had none on hand. But it tasted good and was quick and easy to make. Will definitely make again!

audio version

Cook Time: 110 minutes

Simple Tortellini Soup Recipe

Ingredients

Directions

Nutrition Facts

History and Origins

Regional Features

Differences from Similar Dishes

Where It Is Typically Served

Interesting Facts

FAQ about Simple Tortellini Soup Recipe