Creamy Tortellini Soup

It's about zero degrees outside.  Not one single degree came to Kentucky this morning.  We sure invited them but they were a total no show.  So in the complete absence of an outdoor temperature, I am forced to make something warm and delicious while holding up inside the house.  I am grateful for the warmth of my home and hubby, now we just need something warm in our tummies! 

This took me a grand total of 30 minutes from the first mince to serving it.  TOTALLY worth it and an easy after work comfort meal.  Cooks in one pot too!

You'll Need:

1 stick of  butter

1 small yellow onion, minced

2  garlic cloves, minced

1 10 ounce package shredded carrots

1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

3/4 cup all-purpose flour

6 cups vegetable broth (chicken broth would be fine too)

1 package (12-ounces) frozen tortellini

1 bag (5-ounces) fresh baby spinach

1 1/2 cup cream OR milk OR half and half
Parmesan Cheese for Garnish

Optional - 1 pound protein of your choice - I picked Sausage.  Shrimp, Chicken or Italian Sausage would be excellent too!

Melt your butter in a large soup pot add 1/3 cup vegetable broth.  Add your minced onion, garlic, carrots, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.  Cook over medium-low heat for 6 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

 

Whisk in flour; whisk until crumbly. It won't look pretty but it will come together soon. Slowly add broth and continue to vigorously whisk until everything is well combined and there are no clumps.

Bring soup to a boil.

 

Add frozen tortellini and spinach and your protein (if you choose to add one).  Continue to cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 6 minutes, or until tortellini is tender and heated through.  Stir in cream or milk; bring back to a steady boil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until smooth and thickened.

 

Remove from heat and let stand 5 minutes.  Sprinkle with grated Parmesan Cheese and serve with a slice of crusty garlic baguette!  Yummmmmm!

 

 This will easily serve a family of 4 hearty eaters.  Very economical and easy clean up too!  What more could a busy lady want!  Ya'll Enjoy!