When the weather turns cool or you’re craving something cozy and satisfying, this Easy Meatball Tortellini Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a one-pot meal that’s loaded with flavor — tender meatballs, cheese-filled tortellini, and a rich tomato broth that warms you from the inside out. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet simple enough to make any night of the week. I made this recipe once using chicken meatballs instead of beef, and it turned out just as delicious — lighter, but still packed with flavor. This soup feels like a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is everything a comfort meal should be — quick, filling, and full of flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes. The tortellini adds a cheesy surprise in every bite, while the meatballs make it hearty and satisfying. It’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
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Easy Meatball Tortellini Soup (Hearty, Comforting, and Ready in Minutes)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
This Easy Meatball Tortellini Soup is a hearty, comforting meal made with tender meatballs, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato broth. It’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes — cozy, flavorful, and family-friendly!
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 package (12–16 oz) frozen or refrigerated meatballs
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
- For Garnish:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Add meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes if pre-cooked (or follow package directions if raw).
- Add tortellini and cook according to package directions, usually 5–7 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in spinach and let wilt for 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
Notes
- Use homemade or store-bought meatballs — both work great.
- For a creamier version, add ½ cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- This soup reheats beautifully and can be frozen without the tortellini (add fresh when reheating).
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Frozen or homemade meatballs – The star of the soup, adding savory, meaty flavor and protein. You can use beef, turkey, or chicken meatballs.
Cheese tortellini – Brings creamy, cheesy richness to every bite. Fresh or frozen varieties work well.
Olive oil – Used for sautéing vegetables and adding a smooth depth to the broth.
Onion – Provides a savory base that enhances the flavor of the soup.
Garlic – Adds warmth and aromatic flavor to the broth.
Carrots and celery – Classic soup vegetables that bring sweetness and texture.
Crushed tomatoes – The base of the broth, giving it a rich and tangy tomato flavor.
Chicken or beef broth – Adds body and depth to the soup; choose low-sodium for better control of seasoning.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that ties all the flavors together.
Salt and pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the soup’s flavor.
Baby spinach (optional) – Adds color, nutrition, and freshness to the final dish.
Parmesan cheese – For sprinkling on top before serving, adding a salty, nutty finish.
Directions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the frozen (or pre-cooked) meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes to heat them through and let the flavors meld.
Add the tortellini to the soup and cook according to the package directions — usually about 5–7 minutes — until tender and cooked through. If using spinach, stir it in during the last minute of cooking until just wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley if desired.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people and takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time — ready in just 30 minutes total.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. If the soup thickens after storage, add a splash of broth before reheating. To freeze, store the soup without the tortellini (as they may get mushy) for up to 2 months; add cooked tortellini when reheating.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Tortellini Soup
Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a rich, velvety broth.
Spicy Kick
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Vegetable Boost
Include zucchini, bell peppers, or kale for extra nutrition and flavor.
Chicken Tortellini Soup
Use chicken meatballs and chicken broth for a lighter version.
Pesto Finish
Stir in a spoonful of pesto right before serving for a burst of herby flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Use gluten-free meatballs and substitute the tortellini with gluten-free pasta.
Slow Cooker Version
Combine all ingredients (except tortellini and spinach) and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Add tortellini in the last 30 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works perfectly — just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Do I have to cook the meatballs first?
If using frozen pre-cooked meatballs, just add them straight in. If raw, cook them before adding to the soup.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully. Just cook the tortellini separately and add it when serving to keep it from getting too soft.
What’s the best broth to use?
Chicken broth gives a lighter flavor, while beef broth adds richness — both work well.
Can I freeze Meatball Tortellini Soup?
Yes, but freeze it without the tortellini for best texture.
Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely, small pasta shapes like ditalini or orecchiette also work great.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Use veggie broth and vegetarian “meatballs” for a plant-based version.
Can I make it creamy?
Yes, stir in some cream or a spoonful of cream cheese at the end for a creamy finish.
Can I add beans?
Cannellini or kidney beans make a hearty, protein-rich addition.
What’s the best garnish?
Freshly grated Parmesan, parsley, or even a drizzle of olive oil elevates the dish.
Conclusion
This Easy Meatball Tortellini Soup is the perfect combination of simplicity, heartiness, and flavor. With tender meatballs, cheesy tortellini, and a rich tomato broth, it’s comfort food made easy. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy nights when you want something warm, wholesome, and delicious. Once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to soups for every season — quick, filling, and guaranteed to satisfy.
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