Name: Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian Sausage; 9 oz Tortellini (fresh or frozen); 4 cups Chicken Broth; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 2 cups Fresh Spinach; 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 Onion (chopped)

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Warm up with our Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup—effortless comfort food that’s perfect for chilly nights! This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of sausage with tender tortellini, all enveloped in a creamy broth. It’s cozy, it’s filling, and it’s made without any fuss, making it the ideal recipe for those evenings when you want something warm and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Prep: This recipe requires minimal chopping and measuring, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Comforting Flavor: The combination of sausage and creamy broth creates a rich, hearty flavor that warms your soul.
One-Pot Wonder: Using a slow cooker means less cleanup and more time to relax with your loved ones.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite veggies or adjust the spices to fit your taste.
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup is made with simple yet essential ingredients that enhance the overall taste and texture of the dish. Each component plays a role in creating that cozy, comforting bowl of soup you’ll love.

Italian Sausage: Ground Italian sausage provides a savory flavor and a little bit of spice.
Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini adds a delightful texture and heartiness to the soup.
Chicken Broth: A base of chicken broth adds depth and richness to the soup.
Heavy Cream: Heavy cream makes the soup luxuriously creamy and smooth.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a nutritional boost.
Garlic: Minced garlic introduces a fragrant aroma and enhances the flavor profile.
Onion: Chopped onion contributes sweetness and depth to the broth.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan sprinkled on top adds a salty kick and texture.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs. Feel free to get creative!

Add Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
Use Different Proteins: Substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you love a little heat.
Swap the Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to change up the flavor.

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup for Cozy Nights

How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. This step enhances the flavor of the meat and adds depth to the soup.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker. Add the chicken broth, garlic, onion, and any other vegetables you are using. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add Tortellini

After the soup has simmered for a few hours, add the tortellini to the slow cooker. This allows the pasta to cook perfectly without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Once the tortellini is tender, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. This step creates that creamy texture and vibrant color.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese and any additional garnishes you like. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup

Don’t Overcook the Tortellini: Add the tortellini towards the end of the cooking time to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables will elevate the flavor of the soup significantly.
Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or cream until the desired consistency is reached.
Season After Cooking: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Let it Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking; it will thicken slightly as it cools.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup

Garnishes

Consider garnishing your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or basil, or add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for a touch of heat. A drizzle of olive oil can also enhance the dish’s richness.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks also make for an excellent side, perfect for dipping!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls or even bread bowls for a fun twist. Adding a sprig of fresh herbs on top can also create an attractive presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools down before sealing.

Freezing

If you want to make this soup ahead of time, it freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers and use within 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether and add more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. This way, you can still enjoy this yummy soup!

Is it possible to make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes! You can cook it on the stovetop over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer until the tortellini is cooked through and the soup is heated entirely.

How can I adjust the creaminess?

If you prefer a thicker soup, add more heavy cream. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with milk or half-and-half.

Final Thoughts

With its rich, hearty flavors and creamy texture, the Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini and Sausage Soup is a must-try dish that will quickly become a family favorite. So grab your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and prepare to enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any chilly night!