As the leaves begin to turn and the crispness of autumn sets in, there’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of soup to soothe the soul and warm the body. Hello, I’m Peggy Bridges, and today I’m delighted to share with you a recipe that has become a cherished staple in my kitchen, especially during these cooler months. Here at Foodies of New England, we’re all about celebrating the region’s seasonal bounty, and this Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini is a perfect embodiment of that philosophy.
This dish is a harmonious blend of comfort and nourishment, a culinary hug that I find myself craving as the hustle and bustle of life seems to quicken with the approach of the holiday season. It’s a recipe born out of the desire to create something both grounding and uplifting, a meal that could serve as a centerpiece for family dinners or a restorative reprieve after a long day.
Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini
Equipment
- 1 large kettle
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cans fire roasted diced garlic tomatoes undrained
- 1 zucchini squash cubed
- 8 oz frozen corn
- 1 bag dried cheese tortellini
- 1 tablespoon Better than Bullion Beef Base
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 Small onion chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large kettle with chopped onion and garlic. Drain if fat remains.
- Boil the tortellini according to package instructions and steam the squash 6-7 minutes.
- Add the beef broth and water to the ground beef mixture, then add the beef base, bay leaves, and salt.
- When the zucchini and tortellini are done, add them to the pot.
- Simmer 20-25 minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
Alternative Methods
When it comes to a hearty and comforting bowl of ground beef and vegetable soup with cheese tortellini, there are delightful variations that can cater to different tastes and dietary needs while maintaining the essence of this beloved dish. The beauty of soup lies in its versatility; each ingredient can be tweaked to suit your preferences, creating a meal that feels both personal and nourishing.
For those seeking a lighter version, consider swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives offer a leaner option while still providing the satisfying depth of flavor that complements the vegetables and tortellini. The subtle change in meat can bring a new dimension to the soup without straying too far from the original recipe’s comforting embrace.
Vegetarians, too, can find solace in this dish by using plant-based crumbles as a substitute for ground beef. These meatless alternatives have come a long way in texture and taste, allowing even the most discerning palates to enjoy a version of this soup that aligns with their dietary choices. The inclusion of these crumbles ensures that Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini remains a robust and fulfilling centerpiece of any meal.
Cooking Tips
Creating a pot of ground beef and vegetable soup with cheese tortellini is like weaving together the threads of comfort, nourishment, and heartwarming flavors. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, offering a hug in the form of a hearty, steaming bowl. As someone who finds immense joy in the kitchen, I find this recipe to be a beautiful symphony of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
The first tip I’d like to share is the importance of browning the ground beef well. This step is about more than just cooking the meat; it’s about building a deep, rich flavor foundation for your Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini. Allow the beef to caramelize slightly, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This maillard reaction imparts a savory depth that will carry through the entire dish.
Vegetables are the next key players in this culinary concerto. Choose a colorful medley—carrots for sweetness, celery for a slight bite, and onions for their aromatic base. Sautéing them until they’re just softened allows each one to retain its individual texture and flavor, contributing to the overall harmony of the Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini.
When selecting your broth, consider the robustness of a good-quality beef or vegetable stock. The broth not only acts as a liquid medium for cooking but also infuses the soup with an additional layer of taste. A well-chosen stock can elevate the entire dish from good to great, enhancing the natural flavors of the other ingredients.
Incorporating the cheese tortellini brings a delightful twist to the traditional soup. The pasta’s tender pockets filled with creamy cheese offer a satisfying chew and a luxurious richness that balances the lean ground beef and the fresh vegetables. Be mindful of the tortellini’s cooking time; add them towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their perfect al dente texture.
Seasoning is an art in itself. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant note, while a pinch of red pepper flakes provides a gentle warmth without overpowering Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini. Salt and pepper should be used judiciously, always tasting and adjusting to ensure a harmonious blend of flavors.
Serving Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini
Serving a steaming bowl of Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini is like wrapping your loved ones in a warm embrace. It’s a dish that speaks to the soul, offering comfort on chilly evenings or solace after a long day. The rich, savory broth, brimming with tender vegetables and hearty ground beef, becomes a canvas for the delicate cheese tortellini, each little pasta pocket a delightful surprise that melds beautifully with the soup’s robust flavors.
To elevate this already heartwarming meal, consider garnishing each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The nutty, salty notes of the Parmesan marry well with the Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini, adding a layer of complexity and enhancing the overall taste experience. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving can also introduce a fruity contrast to the richness of the beef and cheese.
For those who enjoy a bit of freshness and color, a scattering of finely chopped parsley not only adds a pop of green but also brings a subtle herby brightness that cuts through the soup’s depth. It’s these small touches that show the care put into the meal, transforming a simple soup into a special occasion.
Pairing the soup with a slice of crusty bread, perhaps even one of the gluten-free crusty artisan rolls we’ve discussed, allows for the joy of dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth. The bread’s crisp exterior and soft interior are perfect for capturing every last drop.
If you’re looking to add a touch of green to your table, a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the soup without overshadowing it. The salad’s crispness contrasts the tenderness of the Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini components, providing a refreshing counterpoint to each spoonful.
FAQs
FAQs about Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini Recipe
- What type of ground beef works best for this soup? For a rich and flavorful soup, using lean ground beef is typically recommended. It provides enough fat to add depth of flavor without making the soup greasy. However, if you prefer a lighter version, extra-lean ground beef can also be used.
- Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh in this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen vegetables can be a great time-saver and are often just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts. Just be sure to add them to the soup according to their cooking times – some may require less time than others.
- How do I prevent the cheese tortellini from becoming mushy? To keep the tortellini al dente, cook them separately in boiling water until they are just shy of being done before adding them to the soup. This way, they’ll finish cooking in the hot broth without overcooking.
- Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian? Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a vegetarian diet by omitting the ground beef and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You might want to add more vegetables or beans to compensate for the protein and texture the beef provides.
- How long does Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini last in the refrigerator? When stored in an airtight container, the soup should last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep in mind that the tortellini will continue to absorb liquid, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
As we come to the close of our culinary exploration with this hearty Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini, it’s time to reflect on the journey we’ve taken together. This dish, brimming with robust flavors and tender, cheese-filled pasta, is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl, a nourishing repast that promises to warm you from the inside out.
At Foodies of New England, we understand that food is an experience, a way to connect with others and share in the joys of life. This Ground Beef and Vegetable Soup with Cheese Tortellini is the perfect centerpiece for those moments. It’s a dish designed to be shared, whether gathered around a family table or enjoyed with friends on a chilly evening.