The Ultimate Winter Soup Recipe: Creamy Tortellini & Ground Beef Soup

Winter calls for warm, hearty meals that comfort and satisfy, and there’s nothing more perfect for a cozy evening than a bowl of creamy tortellini soup. This soup is packed with flavor, creamy texture, and just the right amount of spice. Made with ground beef, a blend of aromatic herbs, creamy heavy cream, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again during the colder months. Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting a gathering, or just need a comforting meal, this creamy tortellini and ground beef soup will surely hit the spot.

Why Soup Once a Week is a Must in the Winter

There’s a certain magic about soups, especially during winter. The chill in the air demands something warm, comforting, and filling. But it’s not just about getting cozy; there are several benefits to making soup a weekly tradition during the winter months.

1. A Complete Meal in One Pot

Soup is incredibly versatile and can easily be a one-pot wonder. It provides a balance of proteins, vegetables, and carbohydrates all in one dish, saving you time and effort in the kitchen. Plus, when you make a large batch, you’ll have leftovers for days.

2. Nutritional Powerhouse

Many soups are packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, hearty proteins, and other wholesome ingredients. This creamy tortellini soup, for example, includes nutrient-dense spinach, tomatoes, and herbs that boost flavor and provide essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Perfect for Cold Weather

There’s no denying that soups are the ultimate comfort food during cold weather. A steaming bowl of soup warms you from the inside out, helping you relax and unwind after a long day in the cold. And when you add rich cream, pasta, and meat like in this recipe, it’s even more satisfying.

4. Easy to Prepare and Customize

With so many variations of soup recipes out there, it’s easy to get creative and make your soup your own. Whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or full of fresh veggies, you can modify the ingredients to match your preferences. The creamy tortellini soup we’re about to explore is a perfect base for all kinds of add-ins.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Creamy Tortellini Soup

This recipe combines the richness of heavy cream, the savory depth of ground beef, and the freshness of spinach and basil. It’s truly an easy, comforting dish to whip up on a cold winter day.

The Ingredients List:

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or oil of your choice)
• 1 lb ground beef (or your preferred meat)
• Spices: Red pepper flakes, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cups heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon garlic
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups chicken broth or stock
• 2 tablespoons cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• 10 oz tortellini
• 1 cup spinach

Why These Ingredients Work Together

The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a rich, velvety base that coats the tortellini and ground beef perfectly. The sun-dried tomatoes add an extra layer of tang and depth of flavor. And let’s not forget about the spinach, which not only adds a pop of color but also a boost of nutrition.

Choosing Your Meat

While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you’re looking for a leaner or vegetarian option. Ground beef is traditionally rich in flavor, which balances the creaminess of the soup, but other meats will work wonderfully as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Creamy Tortellini Soup

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the simple steps that’ll help you make this comforting soup from scratch. Trust us, you’ll want to follow these instructions to get the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Step 1: Cooking the Meat

In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil (or avocado oil) over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or your meat of choice), and season with red pepper flakes, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the meat for about 7-10 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally to break up the meat into crumbles.

Once fully cooked, set the meat aside. You’ll be adding it back in later, so keep it close.

Step 2: Adding the Butter and Vegetables

In the same pot, lower the heat to medium-low, and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt, then toss in 1 tablespoon of garlic, 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, and 3 tablespoons of tomato paste. Stir the mixture for a couple of minutes until the garlic turns golden and fragrant.

The tomatoes will begin to soften and release their juices, blending wonderfully with the tomato paste. This forms a fantastic base for the soup’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Mixing in the Cream and Stock

Add 3 cups of heavy cream to the pot, stirring gently to incorporate. Follow up with 4 cups of chicken broth or stock. At this stage, you can adjust the consistency of the soup to your liking by adding more or less stock.

Next, stir in 2 tablespoons of room temperature cream cheese and 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes. These ingredients will add richness and a delightful tangy twist to the soup. Mix everything together until smooth, and bring it back to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Adding the Tortellini and Meat

Once your soup is at a gentle boil, it’s time to add the 10 oz of tortellini and the cooked ground beef. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the soup, and cook the tortellini according to the package instructions, typically for about 3-5 minutes, depending on the brand.

Step 5: Adding the Spinach and Fresh Herbs

Once the tortellini is cooked, add 1 cup of fresh spinach and chopped parsley and basil. These herbs will add brightness and freshness to the soup, balancing the rich and creamy base.

Season the soup to taste with more salt and pepper if needed. You can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and creaminess.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with more Parmesan cheese, a sprinkle of crushed pepper, and additional parsley for a fresh finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect winter meal!

Tips for Perfecting This Recipe

• Make It Ahead of Time: This soup is even better the next day. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for a spicier kick or extra Italian seasoning for more herbal depth.
• Use Frozen Tortellini: If fresh tortellini isn’t available, frozen tortellini works just as well. Just make sure to follow the cooking time on the package.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes! You can substitute tortellini with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even shells. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day! You can make it in advance, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

Absolutely! You can skip the meat entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms. For the creaminess, stick with the cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan, or substitute with plant-based options if you prefer.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this soup?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this soup for later. To do so, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

This creamy tortellini soup recipe is a perfect addition to your winter meal rotation. It’s easy, comforting, and bursting with flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup will always hit the spot.