Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Tomato Basil Tortellini Soup?
It is a rich and comforting soup that combines the classic flavors of tomato and basil with cheese-filled tortellini, often inspired by popular social media recipes.
How long does it take to make this soup?
The recipe is designed to be quick and convenient, typically taking under an hour from start to finish.
What are the primary ingredients needed?
The main ingredients include condensed tomato soup, cheese-filled tortellini, half-and-half, chicken stock, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Can I substitute the sun-dried tomatoes?
Yes, you can use 2 tablespoons of sun-dried tomato pesto as an alternative to 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
What type of tortellini is best for this recipe?
A 9-ounce package of cheese-filled tortellini is recommended for the best flavor and texture.
How should the garlic be prepared?
You should use 2 large garlic cloves, minced, and sauté them in olive oil until fragrant and golden brown.
What is the base liquid for the soup?
The soup base is created by combining condensed tomato soup, half-and-half, and chicken stock.
What seasonings are used in this tomato basil soup?
The soup is seasoned with onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
How do I cook the tortellini in the soup?
Once the soup mixture is simmering, drop the tortellini directly into the pot and cook for 5-7 minutes or according to package directions.
Is there a recommended garnish for serving?
Yes, it is highly recommended to serve the soup with a generous sprinkle of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese.
Is this soup considered a comfort food?
Absolutely, its rich texture and cheesy pasta make it a popular comfort food choice for families.
Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock?
Yes, vegetable stock can be used as a 1:1 substitute if you prefer a vegetarian-friendly version.
What heat setting should I use to sauté the garlic?
The garlic should be sautéed over medium heat to prevent burning while releasing its fragrance.
How much olive oil is required?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of olive oil to start the sauté process.
Can I add more herbs to the recipe?
While the recipe uses Italian seasoning, you can add fresh basil leaves for even more depth of flavor.
What is the role of half-and-half in this recipe?
The half-and-half provides the creamy, velvety texture that balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
How much condensed tomato soup is needed?
You will need two 10.25-ounce cans of condensed tomato soup.
Should the tortellini be cooked before adding to the soup?
No, the tortellini should be added raw to the simmering soup liquid so they can absorb the flavors while they cook.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
It can be meal prepped, though the tortellini may continue to absorb liquid over time, making the soup thicker when reheated.
What kind of pot should I use?
A large stockpot is recommended to accommodate all the liquid ingredients and the tortellini.
How much Italian seasoning is included?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning.
Can I make this soup spicier?
Yes, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the simmering stage for a bit of heat.
How do I know when the tortellini is done?
The tortellini are done when they are tender and have typically floated to the surface of the soup.
What is the purpose of the sun-dried tomatoes?
Sun-dried tomatoes add a concentrated, slightly sweet and tangy depth to the tomato base.
Can I use heavy cream instead of half-and-half?
Yes, heavy cream will make the soup even richer and thicker.
Is the onion powder necessary?
It is recommended for a well-rounded savory flavor without the texture of chopped onions.
Can I use meat-filled tortellini?
Yes, sausage or beef-filled tortellini can be used if you prefer a heartier, meatier soup.
How should I store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Does this recipe contain salt and pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, though you should adjust to taste.
What makes this soup 'Pinterest inspired'?
It follows the trend of 'slow cooker' or 'easy assembly' creamy soups that became viral for their simplicity and high flavor profile.