Hearty Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup in 25 Minutes 🍲🇮🇹✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, satisfying, and easy Italian soup recipe that comes together quickly, then this hearty meatball soup with tortellini pasta is your perfect solution. Combining flavorful homemade meatballs, tender tortellini, and a savory broth, this tortellini pasta soup offers a comforting taste of Italy in just 25 minutes. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe proves that you don’t need hours to enjoy a delicious Italian-inspired soup.

2. Ingredients Needed for the Hearty Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (9 oz) package refrigerated tortellini
• 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
• Additional grated Parmesan for serving

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Hearty Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup

Preparing the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended, then form into small 1-inch meatballs. Set aside.

Cooking the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Simmering the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Gently add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes to cook the meatballs through.

Adding Tortellini and Greens

Stir in the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, about 5 minutes. Then, add chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Final Touches and Serving

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your easy Italian soup with crusty bread for a complete meal!

4. Tips for Making the Best Hearty Meatball Soup in Under 30 Minutes

• Use pre-made meatballs or freeze homemade ones for even quicker prep.
• Opt for fresh or frozen tortellini – frozen tends to cook faster and is more convenient.
• For added flavor, stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving.
• This soup can be customized with other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

5. Storage and Reheating Tips for the Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the broth. Do not freeze the tortellini as it may become mushy upon thawing.

6. Serving Suggestions for a Complete Italian Meal

This easy Italian soup pairs beautifully with a side of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread. Add a fresh green salad topped with balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced, hearty dinner. For an extra rich experience, top with freshly chopped herbs and more grated Parmesan cheese.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Hearty Italian Meatball and Tortellini Soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives or skip them altogether. Use vegetable broth and add beans or extra vegetables for more protein and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this soup?

Preparation time is around 10 minutes, and cooking takes approximately 15 minutes, making this a quick and easy Italian soup recipe ready in about 25 minutes.

Can I freeze this soup?

It’s best to avoid freezing the tortellini as it can become mushy. You can store the meatball and broth portions separately in the freezer for up to 3 months and add fresh tortellini when reheating.

What variations can I try?

Try adding different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or spice it up with red pepper flakes. You can also swap out tortellini for other pasta shapes, depending on your preference.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

To make your cooking experience even smoother, consider the following tools:

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for efficiently cooking meatballs evenly and quickly, ensuring crispiness without added oil.
• T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set – Provides versatile pots and pans ideal for sautéing vegetables or simmering the soup.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Great for baking or lightly crispening meatballs before adding to the soup.
• KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer – Makes mixing meatball ingredients easier and more uniform.

9. Conclusion

This easy Italian soup recipe for hearty meatball and tortellini soup proves that you can enjoy a nourishing and flavorful meal in just 25 minutes. Whether you’re busy during the week or simply craving comforting tortellini pasta soup, this dish is versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to impress. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and indulge in a bowl of Italy right at home!

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