Slow Cooker Tortellini Soup

Slow cooker tortellini soup is a comforting and hearty dish packed with tender cheese tortellini, savory Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for chilly days or when you want a hands-off meal that’s ready when you are. Simply set it, forget it, and enjoy a warm and delicious bowl of soup!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Convenient: The slow cooker does all the work for you.
• Rich and Creamy: A comforting and satisfying soup with a velvety broth.
• Customizable: Use your favorite tortellini and add any vegetables you like.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 (10 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.

Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:

1. Combine Ingredients: Add chopped onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, basil, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.
2. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the flavors meld and the vegetables are tender.

Add Tortellini and Spinach:

1. Add Pasta and Greens: Stir in the tortellini and spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cook until the tortellini is tender.

Finish with Cream:

1. Make It Creamy: Stir in the heavy cream and let it heat through (about 5-10 minutes). Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

1. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu for a different twist.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or substitute with unsweetened almond milk.
• Different Greens: Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a bit more texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The soup (without tortellini) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Add fresh tortellini when reheating to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat until hot. If the soup is too thick, add a bit of broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use frozen tortellini in this soup?

Yes, you can add frozen tortellini directly to the slow cooker. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

How do I prevent the tortellini from getting mushy?

Add the tortellini during the last 30 minutes of cooking and serve immediately once it’s tender.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the soup without adding the tortellini and cream. When ready to serve, reheat the soup, add the tortellini, and finish with cream.

What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes! Follow the same steps using a large pot. Simmer on medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, then add tortellini and cook until tender.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small pasta shapes like mini shells, rotini, or gnocchi work well, but adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I make this soup spicier?

Use spicy Italian sausage or add more crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How can I thicken the soup?

For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the soup before adding the cream.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Yes! Mushrooms, carrots, celery, and zucchini are all great additions to this soup.

Conclusion

Slow cooker tortellini soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender pasta, hearty sausage, and a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s an easy, set-it-and-forget-it recipe that fills your home with the aroma of a delicious, homemade meal. Perfect for family dinners, this soup is warm, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort!

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