This comforting ravioli soup is full of flavor and warmth. With little pockets of pasta swimming in a tasty broth, it’s simple and satisfying in every sip!
I love how this soup looks like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s perfect on chilly days when you just want to feel cozy. Don’t forget the crusty bread for dipping! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor. If you don’t have it, canola or vegetable oil is a good replacement, although they won’t add the same rich taste.
Broth: Chicken broth gives great flavor, but vegetable broth works well for a lighter option. For a heartier soup, homemade broth is always appreciated if you have it on hand.
Vegetables: Besides onion, carrot, and celery, feel free to toss in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. They all add depth to the flavor and nutrition!
Ravioli: Cheese ravioli is a classic choice, but you can also use meat or even veggie-filled varieties. Fresh or frozen work too—just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds the best texture and taste. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano also works, though it has a stronger flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor Balance in My Soup?
Getting the right flavor balance involves layering ingredients and seasoning. Start with softening the veggies to release their natural sugars and sweetness. This builds a great base.
- Cook veggies until they are soft and aromatic—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic shortly after, giving it just a minute to bloom. Too long can make it bitter.
- Always season as you go! Adding salt and pepper gradually helps you avoid over or under-seasoning.
- Let the soup simmer after adding broth and tomatoes to let the flavors meld. About 10 minutes does the trick!
Following these steps can help you create a well-balanced and flavorful ravioli soup every time. Enjoy each bowl full of deliciousness!
Ravioli Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (9-12 oz) package refrigerated cheese ravioli
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and celery. Cook everything for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Next, throw in the minced garlic. Let this cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes:
Now, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, and sprinkle some salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Play it safe! Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes so all the flavors can come together nicely.
5. Cook the Ravioli:
Add the ravioli to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 4-5 minutes, until the ravioli float to the top and are tender.
6. Add Fresh Basil:
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper if necessary.
7. Serve It Up:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Don’t be shy with the toppings! Sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and add some extra basil for garnish.
8. Enjoy!
Serve the ravioli soup hot alongside some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of deliciousness!
Your cozy meal is ready—enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Ravioli Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure the frozen ravioli is heated through and cooked properly. There’s no need to thaw them first.
What Vegetables Can I Add to This Soup?
Feel free to amp up the nutrition! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or diced zucchini for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure to add them with the onion to soften them first.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your ravioli is cheese-based or vegetarian. The rest of the recipe remains the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
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. Just be mindful that the ravioli may soften a bit more after storage.