Introduction: Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, flavorful meal with minimal effort. The rich and creamy broth is loaded with tender tortellini, vegetables, and a medley of seasonings. All you need to do is set everything in your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. This soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering the creamy texture you crave with the ease of slow-cooked goodness.
Ingredients:
1 lb (about 450g) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
2 cups baby spinach (or kale, optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little spice)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Combine ingredients in the slow cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
Cook the soup: Cover and cook the soup on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The soup is ready when the flavors have melded together.
Add the tortellini and spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini to the slow cooker. If you’re using spinach (or kale), add it at the same time. Stir well and cover again.
Add the cream: Once the tortellini is cooked (it will take about 30 minutes), stir in the heavy cream. Let it heat through for an additional 10-15 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping!
Description:
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect mix of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors. The tortellini, whether stuffed with cheese, meat, or a mix, soaks up the delicious broth, making each bite a comforting experience. The slow cooker helps bring all the ingredients together, creating a rich and flavorful soup with minimal effort. With the addition of spinach and tomatoes, this soup offers both comfort and nutrition, making it an ideal meal for colder days or when you’re craving something hearty.
Tips:
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add a little more tortellini.
For extra flavor, sauté the garlic and onion with a pinch of red pepper flakes or add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
If you want to make the soup a little heartier, add diced carrots or celery with the onions and garlic.
Stir in some fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, right before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Variations:
Chicken Tortellini Soup: Add cooked, shredded chicken to the slow cooker for extra protein.
Vegetarian: Skip the chicken broth and use vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, for added flavor and texture.
Lighter version: Swap out the heavy cream for milk or use a combination of milk and a little cream cheese for a creamy yet lighter alternative.
Spicy Tortellini Soup: Add more crushed red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
Correction:
If the soup is too thick after adding the cream, you can adjust the consistency by adding a bit more broth or water, stirring until it reaches your desired thickness.
Enjoy:
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and comforting soup with a side of warm crusty bread or a simple salad. It’s the perfect meal for a cold evening or when you need a quick, filling dinner that practically cooks itself!