Description
A hearty and comforting Meatball and Tortellini Soup featuring tender cheese tortellini, flavorful meatballs, fresh spinach, and a rich tomato-beef broth seasoned with Italian herbs. This easy stovetop recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 20 small cooked meatballs (homemade or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Build the Broth: Pour in beef broth, water, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Add Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add the Pasta & Meatballs: Stir in the refrigerated cheese tortellini and the cooked meatballs. Continue cooking for 7-9 minutes or until the tortellini are tender and cooked through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish & Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and allow it to wilt for 1-2 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use vegetarian meatballs or omit meatballs.
- If using frozen meatballs, thaw them slightly before adding to the soup to ensure even heating.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if you prefer a milder soup.
