Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This recipe combines savory Italian sausage with tender tortellini, fresh greens, and a creamy broth, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Simply throw the ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic while you go about your day. The result is a rich, flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy your family and friends.
Why We Love This Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup Recipe
The beauty of this Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for those who lead busy lives. You can prepare everything in just a few minutes, and the slow cooker takes care of the rest. Plus, this dish is incredibly flexible; you can easily adapt it to suit your family’s taste preferences. Whether you enjoy a bit of heat, extra veggies, or a different type of leafy green, this recipe allows you to get creative. Best of all, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash after dinner!
Ingredients about Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
To make this delightful soup, gather the following ingredients:
List of ingredients with measurements
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated tortellini
- 2 cups spinach or kale
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup Directions
Creating your Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup is straightforward and requires just a few steps. Follow this simple guide to whip up your delicious meal!
- Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. The goal is to get the sausage thoroughly cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Once the sausage is nicely browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This step helps in keeping the soup from becoming too greasy.
- Now, it’s time to transfer the sausage into your crockpot. Combine the cooked sausage with the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. As these ingredients meld together, they will create a rich and savory base for the soup.
- Season the mixture well with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that you can always adjust the seasoning later, but it’s best to start off with a moderate amount.
- Next, set your crockpot to the low setting if you prefer a longer, slower cooking time. Let the soup cook for 6 to 8 hours, or set it to high for a quicker option of 3 to 4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the tortellini and your choice of spinach or kale. This step adds a fresh element to the dish and ensures the tortellini cooks to perfection without becoming mushy.
- Just before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream. This will create a lovely, rich consistency for the broth.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch adds a delightful cheesy flavor that complements the soup beautifully.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Serving your Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup is a breeze. Place the hot soup into individual bowls and don’t forget to sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. This cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the soup’s heartiness.
For a complete meal, consider serving the soup alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. These sides are perfect for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth. If you want to elevate your presentation, you can garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
This soup is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. It is filling enough to be the main attraction, but also pairs well with a light salad or some roasted vegetables if you want to add more sides to the table.
Expert Tips: Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Use Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage is vital to this soup. Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best taste. You can even experiment with different varieties like spicy or sweet sausage.
- Customize the Greens: While spinach and kale are great choices, feel free to mix it up with other greens like Swiss chard or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Avoid Overcooking the Tortellini: When adding the tortellini, be mindful of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, so keep an eye on it during the last 15 minutes.
- Leftovers are Your Friend: This soup makes excellent leftovers! It often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop.
- Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream or substituting half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for added protein without sacrificing creaminess.
How to Store Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Storing your leftover Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in individual portions. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. This way, you can easily reheat a serving whenever you’re in the mood for some comforting soup.
When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use the microwave, but be cautious to heat it slowly to avoid overheating the tortellini, which can lead to a chewy texture.
Variation of Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
This recipe is versatile, allowing you to personalize it according to your likes and dietary needs. Here are some variations you might enjoy:
- Add More Veggies: Boost your soup’s nutrition by adding more vegetables! Consider bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just chop them and toss them in with the other ingredients at the start.
- Use Different Pasta: Instead of tortellini, you can use other types of pasta like bowtie or penne. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to suit the pasta you choose.
- Change the Protein: While Italian sausage is a classic choice, you’re not limited to it. Ground turkey or chicken can work well for a lighter option, and you can also use plant-based sausage for a meat-free dish.
- Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Creamy or Tomato-Based: If you prefer a tomato-based soup, skip the heavy cream and add an extra can of diced tomatoes. This creates a delicious, tangy flavor without losing that comforting essence.
FAQ
What should I serve with Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
You can serve this soup alongside crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to create a well-rounded meal.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I know when the tortellini is done?
The tortellini is typically ready when it floats to the top of the soup and is tender to the bite. This usually takes around 15 minutes in the slow cooker.
Is it possible to freeze Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup?
Absolutely! Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep well for several months.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use frozen tortellini, but keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks through.
Crockpot Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage Opt for high-quality sausage for the best flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 package (9 ounces) refrigerated tortellini Can substitute with other types of pasta.
- 2 cups spinach or kale Customize with your preferred greens.
- 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese to taste for serving Sprinkle on top before serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the Italian sausage, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Transfer the cooked sausage into a crockpot and combine with chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking
- Set the crockpot to low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and choice of spinach or kale.
- Just before serving, gently stir in the heavy cream.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
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