Name: Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491902H17M25S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 ounces Italian sausage; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery sticks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 28 ounces crushed tomatoes; 14 ounces diced tomatoes with juice; 4 cups chicken broth; 2 (9 ounce) packages of cheese tortellini; 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream; 2 cups baby spinach; 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper

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This Crockpot Tortellini Soup is the epitome of cozy comfort food, perfect for any weeknight or lazy Sunday. Just imagine a pot simmering all day, filling your home with the delightful aroma of savory Italian sausage, rich tomatoes, and creamy goodness. Not only is this soup a feast for the senses, but it also brings families together, making meal time that much more special. Best of all, the crockpot does most of the work for you, letting you enjoy quality time with loved ones while it cooks. Dive into a bowl of this hearty soup, and you’ll find yourself wrapped in warmth—inside and out.

Why This Recipe Works

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup is a symphony of flavors, combining hearty ingredients that meld beautifully over time. The slow cooking process allows the Italian sausage to infuse the broth with savory goodness, while the tortellini absorbs all the rich, creamy tomato flavors, creating a comforting bowl of joy.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Tortellini Soup

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this Crockpot Tortellini Soup is the perfect solution. It’s rich, creamy, and easy to prepare, requiring minimal hands-on time. Plus, kids love it! Who can resist cheese tortellini in a deliciously creamy broth?

Ingredients

16 ounces Italian sausage
1/2 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery sticks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
14 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
4 cups chicken broth
2 (9 ounce) packages of cheese tortellini
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
2 cups baby spinach
1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper

Preparing the Crockpot Tortellini Soup

Browning the Sausage and Onions

Start by adding the Italian sausage and chopped onion to a medium-sized pan. Cook them together until the sausage is well-browned. Towards the end of cooking, add minced garlic to prevent burning.

Transferring to the Slow Cooker

Once the sausage and onion mixture is fully cooked, carefully transfer it to an 8-quart slow cooker.

Adding Vegetables and Tomatoes

Next, stir in the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the chicken broth.

Cooking the Soup

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 7-8 hours. If cooking on low, switch to high heat when it’s time to add the tortellini.

Incorporating the Tortellini and Cream

Approximately 30 minutes before the soup is done, add the cheese tortellini, heavy whipping cream, baby spinach, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Serving the Soup

Once cooked, serve the soup hot. Feel free to garnish with additional pepper or a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra touch of flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Crockpot Tortellini Soup with crusty bread or garlic bread on the side. A simple green salad can complement the meal beautifully as well, providing a refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.

Tips for Success

For added flavor, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
Adjust the seasoning to your preference; a pinch of red pepper flakes can introduce a delightful heat.
For a vegan option, swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream.

Variations

Try adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for more nutrition.
For a spicier kick, use spicy Italian sausage.
Experiment with different types of cheese tortellini, like spinach or mushroom-flavored varieties.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this soup with a crisp white wine, like Pinot Grigio, or a light red such as Chianti. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon complements the soup nicely.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, you can add frozen tortellini directly to the soup; the cooking time may need to be extended slightly.

2. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute the Italian sausage with a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

4. What can I add for extra protein?
Consider adding cooked shredded chicken or beans for an extra protein boost.

5. Is this soup kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy (and cheesy) tortellini makes it a hit among children and picky eaters.

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup offers a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and stomach. Its simplicity and rich taste make it an ideal dish for family dinners or lazy weekends, allowing you to enjoy the process as much as the delicious results. With flexible ingredients and storage options, this soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a comforting experience waiting to happen.