Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
If you are searching for a cozy, hearty, and absolutely satisfying meal, look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect combination of rich Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, vibrant spinach, and a luscious creamy broth made effortlessly in your slow cooker. This soup is a comforting hug in a bowl that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and warms your soul on even the chilliest days. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or wanting leftovers for the week, this recipe delivers on taste, texture, and ease all in one pot.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creating a satisfying texture. From the savory Italian sausage to the fresh spinach, each component brings something special to the table while keeping the preparation straightforward and enjoyable.
- Italian sausage (1 lb): Provides a robust, meaty base with mouthwatering spices that kick off the flavor profile.
- Onion (1, sliced): Adds subtle sweetness and depth while softening beautifully during slow cooking.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Imparts a fragrant warmth that uplifts every bite.
- Chopped tomatoes (28 oz can): Bring acidity and vibrant color to balance the creamy elements.
- Cheese tortellini (9 oz, chilled): The tender, pasta-filled pockets that soak up the broth and add comforting substance.
- Vegetable broth (4 cups): Acts as the flavorful liquid foundation for the entire soup.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Offers a sweet, herbaceous note that complements the Italian sausage perfectly.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Infuses a classic Mediterranean aroma with a hint of earthiness.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Delivers the rich, velvety texture making this soup irresistibly creamy.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups, coarsely chopped): Adds a fresh, nutritious boost and a pop of color right at the end.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish): Brings a salty, tangy finish that adds depth with every spoonful.
How to Make Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and browning the Italian sausage until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. This step locks in the flavor and creates a delicious base for your soup. Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy broth, then transfer the sausage straight to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Tomatoes
Next, toss in the sliced onion, minced garlic, and the whole can of chopped tomatoes along with their juices. These ingredients will meld together over hours of slow cooking, building a savory and beautifully rich flavor foundation that fills your kitchen with warmth.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Seasonings
Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients, followed by a pinch of salt, pepper, and the dried basil and oregano. Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the seasonings. This slow cooker magic will allow the spices to permeate the soup, creating a balanced and aromatic base.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and let everything simmer on low for 6 to 7 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours. This gentle cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and the ingredients to meld into a harmonious and hearty soup.
Step 5: Add Spinach and Tortellini
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, add the coarsely chopped fresh spinach and chilled cheese tortellini to the slow cooker. These last-minute additions ensure the spinach stays vibrant and the tortellini cooks just right, tender but not mushy.
Step 6: Stir in Heavy Cream
Once the tortellini and spinach are nestled in, pour in the heavy cream and stir gently until fully combined. This step transforms the broth into a luxuriously creamy soup base that coats every morsel beautifully.
Step 7: Finish Cooking
Cover and continue cooking on high for another 25 to 30 minutes until the tortellini is tender and the soup has thickened slightly. This final simmer brings everything together into one cohesive, comforting bowl of goodness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle the soup generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a wonderful salty contrast and an extra layer of rich flavor that makes each bite unforgettable.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
While the Parmesan cheese is a classic choice, don’t stop there! Fresh chopped basil or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add brightness. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes will give a gentle kick for those who like a little heat.
Side Dishes
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread to soak up every creamy drop. Garlic bread or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complement this hearty soup wonderfully, balancing richness with freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or wide soup plates topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. A little extra Parmesan on the side invites guests to personalize their bowl. Pairing it with a glass of your favorite red wine transforms this meal into a memorable dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe stores excellently in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more after resting, making it just as delicious when reheated.
Freezing
Because of the cream and pasta, freezing is a bit tricky but possible. Freeze the soup without the tortellini or cream in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and add fresh tortellini and cream when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring often to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help restore the perfect silky texture. For best results, add fresh tortellini if frozen without pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap Italian sausage for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based alternative to make the soup your own without losing that savory, spiced flavor.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
Yes! Simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and delicious.
What type of cheese tortellini works best?
Fresh or chilled cheese tortellini works wonderfully because it holds up well during cooking, but frozen tortellini can be used if added right at the end to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this soup without the slow cooker?
Definitely. You can simmer all the ingredients on the stovetop over low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour, then add the spinach, tortellini, and cream in the last 30 minutes.
How spicy is this soup?
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe is mild and comforting, but you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy sausage if you prefer a little heat.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe is a true kitchen champion that combines ease, hearty flavors, and creamy comfort in one pot. It’s absolutely perfect for busy days, family dinners, or anytime you crave a soul-soothing meal. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite that keeps people coming back bowl after bowl. Trust me, your slow cooker is about to become your best friend!
Print
Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup combines savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach simmered in a flavorful tomato and herb broth enriched with heavy cream. Perfect for a comforting and hearty meal, this soup is easy to prepare and cooked low and slow to develop rich flavors, making weeknight dinners effortless and delicious.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage, browned and drained
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can chopped tomatoes
Broth and Seasonings
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 9 oz chilled cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown Sausage: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables: Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and chopped tomatoes with their juice to the slow cooker with the sausage.
- Combine Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, then season with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook Base: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Add Tortellini and Spinach: About 30 minutes before serving, add the chopped spinach and chilled cheese tortellini to the slow cooker.
- Incorporate Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently until the soup is creamy and well combined.
- Finish Cooking: Continue to cook covered on high for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender and fully cooked.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- For a lower-fat version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add crushed red pepper flakes when seasoning.
- Fresh herbs can replace dried basil and oregano if available; use about 1 tablespoon each.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
