Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup – A Cozy Dinner Favorite!
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, creamy bowl of tortellini soup on a chilly evening! This creamy crockpot tortellini soup recipe is packed with delicious, hearty ingredients, and the best part? It’s super easy to prepare! Just toss everything in your crockpot, let it simmer, and enjoy a cozy dinner that feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This soup combines the richness of cheese-filled tortellini, savory Italian sausage, and fresh veggies, all enveloped in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a low-effort, high-reward meal. Here’s why this soup is a winner:
- Easy Prep: Minimal chopping and cooking required!
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with pasta, protein, and veggies.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this deliciously creamy tortellini soup, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, undrained)
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that extra creamy touch)
- 1 package cheese tortellini (usually 9–10 oz, fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
To get started, brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. This step adds a rich, deep flavor to your soup. Drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage to the crockpot.
Pro Tip: Sauté the onions and garlic in the same skillet after the sausage for an extra layer of flavor!
2. Add the Ingredients to the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the browned sausage, chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes (with the juice). Stir everything together, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if desired.
3. Slow Cook
Set your crockpot on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a delicious base.
Pro Tip: If you’re using frozen tortellini, you can add them directly without thawing – just extend the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re heated through.
4. Add Tortellini and Spinach
About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini and fresh spinach to the crockpot. Stir well and let the soup cook until the tortellini is tender and spinach has wilted.
5. Pour in the Cream
Finally, add the heavy cream to make your soup creamy and luscious. Stir well and let it warm up for about 10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For a thicker soup, you can add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan along with the cream. This will give the broth a rich, cheesy flavor!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your creamy crockpot tortellini soup with:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor
- A dash of cracked black pepper or fresh herbs like parsley or basil
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While the broth freezes well, tortellini may become mushy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, hold off on adding the tortellini and spinach until reheating.
- Reheating: Warm up in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or broth if it thickens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage or even ground beef work well in this recipe. If you’re vegetarian, skip the sausage and add extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the consistency may be a bit thinner.
Is It Okay to Use Frozen Tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works just as well! Just add it in the last 30 minutes and ensure it’s heated through before serving.
Enjoy Your Cozy Bowl of Comfort!
This creamy crockpot tortellini soup is a true delight for soup lovers. Its ease of preparation and comforting flavors make it a perfect meal for any chilly evening.