This hearty, creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup paired with crunchy cheddar toast bites is the perfect comfort food duo. Using a slow cooker makes it incredibly easy, allowing you to enjoy a rich, flavorful soup with minimal effort. The cheesy toast bites add the perfect finishing touch to this cozy meal.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)
For the Cheddar Toast Bites:
- 1 baguette or French bread loaf, sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Soup Base
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened (about 3–5 minutes).
- Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker.
2. Add the Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken or vegetable broth, dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine, cover, and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
3. Blend the Soup (Optional)
- For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender directly in the slow cooker to blend the tomatoes and onions. If you prefer a chunkier texture, skip this step.
4. Add the Cream and Tortellini
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Add the cheese tortellini, cover, and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, or until the tortellini are tender.
5. Prepare the Cheddar Toast Bites
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the baguette slices on a baking sheet.
- Brush each slice with melted butter and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and parsley.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
- Serve with cheddar toast bites on the side or dunk them directly into the soup for cheesy goodness.
Tips for the Best Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Customize the Tortellini: Use spinach, mushroom, or meat-filled tortellini instead of cheese for a unique twist.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in chopped spinach, kale, or zucchini for added nutrition.
- Make It Creamier: Use full-fat coconut milk instead of cream for a dairy-free option.
- Enhance Flavor: Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage and Reheating
- Soup: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Toast Bites: Store in a sealed container for 1–2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to crisp them up.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup with Cheddar Toast Bites is a soul-warming dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its creamy texture, savory tortellini, and cheesy bread pairing, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Assemble your ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home!
