This Italian Meatball and Cheese Tortellini Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that will warm your soul on a cold day. Made with flavorful meatballs, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato broth, this soup is easy to make and incredibly delicious. It's the perfect meal to serve to your family and friends, and it's sure to become a favorite in your household. In just a short amount of time, you can create a bowlful of goodness that will satisfy your hunger and leave you feeling satisfied. So grab your apron and get ready to cook up a pot of this tasty soup!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (for garnish)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, milk, salt, garlic powder, dried oregano, black pepper, and egg. Mix well until combined.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, water, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the cheese tortellini to the pot and cook according to package instructions.
- Once the tortellini is cooked, return the meatballs to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach and simmer for an additional 5 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Interesting Facts
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
You can customize this soup by adding your favorite vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini.
To make the meatballs extra flavorful, you can add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce to the meat mixture.
If you prefer a spicier soup, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.