It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was craving something warm, comforting, and oh-so-delicious. That’s when I remembered the Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup recipe I had tucked away in my recipe box. I couldn’t wait to whip it up and indulge in its rich, creamy goodness.
You see, I had first discovered this recipe a few years back when a dear friend of mine served it at a dinner party. From the moment I took that first spoonful, I was hooked. The blend of cheese tortellini, velvety cream, and aromatic herbs had me completely smitten. I remember turning to my friend and jokingly saying, “Marry me!” (Hence the name “Marry Me Tortellini Soup!”) Ever since then, this recipe has become a staple in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you.
Why This Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
What makes this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup so special? It’s all about the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The cheese-filled tortellini provides a delightful chewiness, while the heavy cream creates a silky, indulgent broth. And the blend of garlic, onion, basil, and oregano gives it an irresistible savory aroma that will have your taste buds dancing.
But the real secret is in the technique. By sautéing the garlic and onion in olive oil first, you unlock a depth of flavor that infuses the entire soup. And the simple act of letting the broth simmer until it’s thickened and creamy takes this dish to the next level. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup, you’ll understand why it’s so swoon-worthy.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
- 1 pound cheese tortellini: The star of the show! These little pasta pockets add a wonderful texture and heartiness to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful foundation that brings everything together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This rich and creamy ingredient gives the soup its indulgent, velvety texture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is essential for adding depth and aroma to the soup.
- 1 small onion, diced: Onions provide a subtle sweetness and a layer of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and onion, this oil helps to build the base of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil adds a fresh, herbal note to the soup.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano complements the basil and lends an Italian flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to balance and enhance the flavors.
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional): A sprinkle of Parmesan on top takes this soup to the next level.
Step-by-Step Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup comes together in a flash. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a few basic kitchen tools.
1- Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté these aromatics for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and the onions start to soften.
2- Next, pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the dried basil and oregano, and let the flavors meld together for about 5 minutes.
3- Now it’s time to add the star of the show – the cheese tortellini. Gently drop the 1 pound of tortellini into the simmering broth and let them cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender and cooked through.
4- Once the tortellini are ready, it’s time to make the soup extra creamy. Slowly pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to incorporate it seamlessly into the broth. You’ll notice the soup start to thicken and take on a rich, velvety texture.
5- Finally, season the Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup with salt and pepper to taste. Give the pot a gentle stir to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
6- Ladle the warm, creamy soup into bowls and, if desired, top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it up and get ready to be swept off your feet by the incredible flavor!
Pro Tips for Success
- For an even creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale to the soup for extra nutrients and color.
- Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use cheese-filled ravioli instead of tortellini for a delightful variation.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful presentation.
Serving and Storing Your Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
This Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is the perfect cozy meal for a chilly evening. It serves 6 generous portions, making it great for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. To complement the richness of the soup, I recommend serving it with a fresh, crisp salad and a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. A glass of white wine or a light beer would also pair beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is just as delicious the next day. To store any leftover soup, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to thin it out if needed.
For make-ahead convenience, you can even freeze this soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve it, simply thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop until heated through.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
Creative Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup Variations
While the classic Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is already a delightful dish, there are plenty of ways to put a unique spin on it. For a heartier version, try adding cooked Italian sausage or diced chicken. You could also swap out the cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom-filled pasta. And for a seasonal twist, try tossing in some fresh cherry tomatoes or diced zucchini in the summer, or roasted butternut squash in the fall.
Making Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few simple swaps you can try. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free tortellini or ravioli. To make it vegan, substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a plant-based cheese alternative. And for a low-carb take, replace the tortellini with riced cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?
A: Absolutely! While the cheese tortellini is the star of this dish, you can certainly substitute it with other types of pasta, such as ravioli, gnocchi, or even small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo.
Q: How long does it take to make this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup?
A: The total time to make this soup is 40 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cook time.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it later?
A: Yes, this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is perfect for making ahead. Once cooled, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup recipe yields 6 generous servings, making it a great option for a family dinner or a small gathering.
Q: What if the soup seems too thick or too thin?
A: If your Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is too thick, simply add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to allow the broth to reduce and thicken.
Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup. Filled with cheese-filled tortellini pasta and a velvety broth, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
– 1 pound cheese tortellini
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cheese tortellini and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
5. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Season with dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a thicker, creamier soup, you can blend a portion of the soup in a blender or use an immersion blender. You can also add diced cooked chicken or spinach for extra protein and veggies.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Conclusion
This Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup is truly a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. With its irresistible blend of cheese tortellini, rich cream, and aromatic herbs, it’s a cozy, comforting dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a chilly night in or serving it to impress your guests, this soup is guaranteed to win over everyone’s hearts (and taste buds!). So what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get ready to fall in love with every spoonful of this Creamy Marry Me Tortellini Soup!
