There's nothing quite like the comfort of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage bubbling away as it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. With tender tortellini, hearty sausage, and a creamy tomato broth, this dish brings all the cozy vibes you crave on a chilly day.
I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter evening when I wanted something warm, filling, and easy to prepare. It quickly became a family favorite, gracing our dinner table with its creamy richness and satisfying flavors. Perfect for busy days or leisurely weekends, this soup is a must-try for any home cook.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage
Get ready to add a new staple to your dinner rotation! This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage checks all the boxes for a quick, delicious, and family-friendly meal.
First off, this soup is ridiculously easy to make. Toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! By the time dinner rolls around, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready to serve with minimal effort.
Not only is it easy, but it’s also loaded with flavor. The combination of savory Italian sausage, pillowy cheese tortellini, and a creamy tomato broth creates a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite.
It’s a crowd-pleaser, too! Whether you’re feeding picky kids or hosting friends, this soup is universally loved. Plus, it’s easy to adapt—make it spicier, veggie-packed, or dairy-free depending on your preferences.
Finally, this recipe is great for meal prep. The leftovers taste just as amazing the next day, making it an ideal choice for lunches or reheatable dinners.
Ready to dive into the details? Let’s start with the ingredients that make this soup shine.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:
- Italian Sausage: Whether you prefer mild or spicy, sausage adds a deep, savory flavor to the soup. You can also use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- Tortellini: The star of the show! Fresh cheese tortellini works best, but frozen tortellini will also do the trick—just adjust the cooking time.
- Crushed Tomatoes: This forms the base of the rich, tangy tomato broth. Go for a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful broth is key to a delicious soup. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist (just skip the sausage).
- Heavy Cream: The secret to the soup’s creamy texture. If you want to cut calories, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition. Kale works as an excellent substitute if you prefer a heartier green.
- Seasonings: Garlic, onion, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes create a robust flavor profile that ties everything together.
Special Equipment
You’ll need a Crockpot or slow cooker for this recipe. A 6-quart size is perfect for this soup. You’ll also want a ladle for serving.
How to Make This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Making this soup couldn’t be simpler! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting, hearty meal ready in no time.
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by browning your Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it enhances the flavor by caramelizing the sausage. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to your Crockpot.
Step 2: Add Base Ingredients
In the Crockpot, combine the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to mix the flavors.
Step 3: Slow Cook
Set your Crockpot to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Cream
About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini and heavy cream to the Crockpot. Stir gently and let the tortellini cook until tender.
Step 5: Stir in Spinach
Once the tortellini is cooked, add the spinach to the soup. Stir until wilted, which should only take a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or a side salad. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage Options
This soup stores wonderfully, making it perfect for leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezer: You can freeze this soup without the tortellini for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, reheat, and then add fresh tortellini to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the soup base ahead of time and freeze it. Add the tortellini, cream, and spinach on the day of serving for the freshest results.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for added heartiness.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace tortellini with zucchini noodles or cauliflower florets for a lighter option.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage and add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Cheese Lover’s Dream: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan right before serving for an ultra-cheesy broth.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use gluten-free tortellini, available at most specialty grocery stores.
Don’t be afraid to experiment! This soup is forgiving and adapts beautifully to your preferences.
Cozy, comforting, and oh-so-delicious, Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a special family dinner, this soup delivers every time. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintCrockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe
Indulge in a rich and creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, packed with tender tortellini, savory sausage, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a quick, comforting, and satisfying family dinner!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 (20 oz) package of refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet until cooked through; drain excess grease.
- Add sausage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and Italian seasoning to a crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- In the last 30 minutes, stir in heavy cream, spinach, and tortellini. Cook until tortellini is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Substitute spinach with kale or other greens if preferred.
- For extra spice, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days but note the tortellini may soften over time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 450kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1150 mg
Leave a Reply