Ravioli soup is a warm and hearty dish filled with tasty pasta pockets. Each bite offers soft ravioli swimming in rich broth, perfect for chilly days.
I love how comforting this soup is—who doesn’t enjoy a bowl of warm goodness? It’s like a cozy hug on a rainy afternoon! Pair it with some bread for a delicious meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re not a fan of olive oil, try using butter or canola oil instead for a different taste.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. You can substitute it with shallots or leeks if you want a milder flavor. They both add a nice twist!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal for that aromatic punch. If you have garlic powder on hand, you can use about 1 teaspoon instead—just remember it’s not as potent.
Broth: Chicken broth gives warmth, but vegetable broth works great too for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth will add even more flavor if you have it!
Fresh Spinach: I love using fresh spinach for its vibrant color and nutrition. You can swap in kale or even frozen spinach if that’s what you have. Just thaw and drain the frozen variety well!
Ravioli: Pre-packaged cheese ravioli is super convenient. Feel free to use any kind of fresh or frozen ravioli or tortellini—beef, chicken, or even mushroom varieties work wonderfully!
Parmesan Cheese: I like to freshly grate my Parmesan for the best flavor. If you’re out, pecorino romano is a great substitute, or try nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor in My Soup?
To create a deeply flavored soup, start with sautéing the onions in olive oil until they’re soft and translucent. This step releases their sweetness and builds the base for your dish.
- Make sure to cook the garlic just until fragrant—too long, and it can become bitter.
- Let the diced tomatoes simmer with the broth and spices for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Cooking the ravioli until they float is key. This means they’re perfectly cooked and ready to enjoy.
Adjust the seasoning at the end to ensure your soup tastes just right—tasting is essential!
How to Make Ravioli Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 package (about 9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini or ravioli
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful ravioli soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling about 30 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Base:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it releases a lovely aroma.
2. Adding Liquids and Spices:
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s the heart of your soup, so let it bubble away for a few minutes!
3. Infusing Flavor:
Now, stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 10 minutes, which gives the flavors time to mingle together and get delicious.
4. Cooking the Ravioli:
Time for the star of the show! Add the chopped fresh spinach and the ravioli to your pot. Cook until the ravioli float to the top and are heated through, around 3-5 minutes (make sure to check the package instructions for exact timing).
5. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust any seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the delicious soup into bowls, and don’t forget to top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your comforting ravioli soup is ready to warm you up! Serve it hot, and if you like, pair it with some crusty bread for a cozy and satisfying meal. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli for This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen ravioli works just fine. Just add them directly to the simmering soup for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and floating.
How Can I Store Leftover Ravioli Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help maintain the soup’s consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and make sure your ravioli are cheese-filled or vegetable-based to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them along with the onions for a few additional minutes before adding the broth!
