Savory Creamy Ham and Bean Tortellini Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp butter
• Chopped small onion
• 2 carrots, sliced after peeling
• Celery stalks, sliced
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cans of drained cannellini beans (15 oz each)
• Cubed fully cooked ham (2 cups)
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• Frozen four-cheese tortellini (8 oz)
• ¼ cup half-and-half
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, to your liking
• Chopped fresh parsley (1 tbsp), or as preferred

Step 1

Begin by gently melting a generous amount of butter in a large soup pot on medium heat, allowing its rich aroma to fill the air. As the butter sizzles, toss in finely chopped onions and sauté them for a brief 2 minutes until they turn translucent and fragrant.

Step 2

Next, add in vibrant carrots and crisp celery to the pot, allowing their colors to brighten the dish. Stir them around for an additional 2 minutes, letting the flavors mingle and intensify. Sprinkle a delicate dusting of flour over the mixture, stirring gently as it cooks for another 2 minutes, creating a light roux that will thicken the soup.

Step 3

Now, it's time to introduce a symphony of flavors to the pot. Pour in the comforting warmth of chicken broth, tender cannellini beans, savory ham, a touch of tangy Dijon mustard, fragrant Italian seasoning, and a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Allow the ingredients to dance together as the mixture comes to a gentle boil.

Step 4

Lower the heat and let the soup simmer for a leisurely 15 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld and the flavors to deepen. Then, gently nestle delicate tortellini into the simmering broth, letting them cook for 5 minutes until they are tender and inviting.

Step 5

To add a touch of creaminess, swirl in velvety half-and-half, enveloping the soup in a luscious texture. Turn off the stove and let the soup rest for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to harmonize and develop further.

Step 6

When ready to serve, lovingly ladle the aromatic soup into bowls, each one a canvas waiting to be adorned. Sprinkle a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top, adding a final flourish of freshness and flavor. Enjoy this comforting bowl of soup, a masterpiece of flavors and textures that will warm both body and soul.