Hearty Tortellini Cheese Meatball Soup
Introduction
Good day to everyone! My mom lives just a house away, and no rain or snowstorm can stop a grandmother from making Tortellini Cheese Meatball Soup for her grandchildren. This heartwarming soup is full of tender meatballs, cheesy tortellini, and a savory broth that comforts both body and soul. Recipes like this show the power of love in cooking and why homemade meals are always the best.
If you love family-style, comforting recipes like this, keep following for more. These dishes aren’t just meals—they’re memories in the making, perfect for sharing with loved ones!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey (for meatballs)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced carrots (optional)
- 1 cup diced celery (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or basil
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Add broth to the pot, along with carrots, celery, and Italian herbs. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Carefully add the meatballs back to the pot and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions, usually 3–5 minutes, until tender.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
Serving and Storage
Serve this soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a comforting, filling dinner.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave. Tortellini may absorb some liquid, so add extra broth when reheating if needed.
Tips
- Use fresh tortellini for a soft, tender texture, or frozen tortellini for convenience.
- Browning the meatballs adds extra flavor, but you can skip this step for a quicker version.
- Add spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition and color.
- For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or milk just before serving.
Conclusion
Tortellini Cheese Meatball Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a way to show love through cooking. Whether made by a grandmother for her grandchildren or by you for your family, it’s guaranteed to warm hearts and fill bellies. Keep following for more recipes that bring comfort, flavor, and family together around the table.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, pre-cooked meatballs work perfectly to save time.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze without the cheese. Reheat and stir in fresh cheese before serving.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use plant-based meatballs or skip meat entirely and add extra vegetables.
Can I use other pasta?
Cheese tortellini is best, but small pasta shapes like mini shells or rotini can also work.