Embark on a culinary journey with our Cheese Tortellini and Meatball Soup, a hearty and satisfying dish that combines tender cheese-filled tortellini, flavorful homemade meatballs, and a rich, aromatic broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings, this soup is sure to warm your body and soul. Let’s dive into creating this comforting and indulgent meal that will become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup:
- 9 oz cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small balls, approximately 1.5 inches in diameter.
Brown the Meatballs:
- Heat a bit of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides until they are cooked through. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes, allowing them to develop flavor.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Pour in the chicken broth, water, and diced tomatoes.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Tortellini and Meatballs:
- Add the cheese tortellini and browned meatballs to the pot.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer until the tortellini is cooked through and the meatballs are heated through, about 10 minutes.
Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting goodness of this delicious soup.
Additional Tips
- Flavor Depth: For added flavor, sauté the vegetables in the pot before browning the meatballs. This will allow the vegetables to pick up the flavor from the caramelized bits left behind.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, or adjust the seasonings to your taste.
- Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for future enjoyment. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
(Per Serving – 1 cup)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 25g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 18g
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup and reheat it when needed.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
While tortellini is traditional in this recipe, you can substitute it with any small pasta, such as ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even orzo. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta you use.
3. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?
To ensure the meatballs stay intact, make sure to mix the ingredients well and roll the meatballs tightly. When browning the meatballs, handle them gently to avoid breaking them.
4. Can I make this soup with ground turkey or chicken?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the soup. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or green beans. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time for any additional ingredients.
Conclusion
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Cheese Tortellini and Meatball Soup, where tender tortellini, savory homemade meatballs, and aromatic vegetables come together in a rich, satisfying broth. Whether served as a main course or a delightful appetizer, this soup is sure to become a go-to dish in your culinary repertoire. Gather your ingredients, simmer a pot of soup with love, and enjoy every delicious spoonful. Bon appétit!