This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with tender cheese tortellini, hearty vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is as easy to make as it is delicious. Simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy the irresistible aroma filling your home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Prep: Just set it and forget it!
Creamy and Hearty: A filling meal-in-a-bowl packed with flavor.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, meats, or spices.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, chopped)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Add the diced onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Cream
Stir in the fresh spinach, cheese tortellini, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Cover and cook on high for an additional 20–30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and heated through.
Step 5: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Tips for Success
Brown the Sausage: This step enhances the flavor of the soup.
Use Fresh Tortellini: Refrigerated tortellini cooks quickly and holds its texture well.
Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Add it toward the end to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Customize Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add more veggies or plant-based protein.
Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Seafood Twist: Swap the sausage for shrimp or crab meat for a unique flavor.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that the tortellini may soften upon reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of slow-cooked flavors and creamy broth makes this tortellini soup irresistibly rich and satisfying. The tortellini adds a chewy, cheesy bite, while the sausage and spinach provide hearty texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is comfort food at its finest. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Try it today, and let your slow cooker do all the work while you savor every creamy, cheesy bite!