There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the perfect solution. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this comforting soup requires minimal effort and can be made easily in your slow cooker. Imagine coming home to the mouthwatering aroma of Italian herbs and delicious sausage, ready to be enjoyed with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley. It’s a dish that warms the soul and makes your mealtime feel special.
Why We Love This Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe
There are countless reasons why you’ll fall in love with this Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage. First, it’s a one-pot wonder that allows for easy cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of textures – the creamy broth, tender sausage, and perfectly cooked tortellini – creates a delightful experience with every spoonful. Moreover, its flavor is adaptable; you can adjust the spices to suit your mood, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies for a wholesome meal. The simplicity of throwing everything into the slow cooker and letting it do the work is both time-saving and rewarding.
Ingredients for Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
To whip up this delicious creamy soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy)
- 1 lb cheese-stuffed tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced thin
- 2 cups fresh or frozen spinach
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage Directions
Creating your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a step-by-step process that ensures you capture all the flavors.
- Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to break the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. After the sausage is nicely browned, drain any excess grease from the skillet and transfer the cooked sausage to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and fragrant, creating a delicious base for your soup. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
- Now, add the sliced carrots, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients well. This step is crucial as it ensures the flavors meld perfectly throughout the cooking process. Once combined, cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the tortellini and spinach. The tortellini will cook in the simmering soup, soaking in all the fantastic flavors. Allow it to cook until the tortellini is tender and the spinach has wilted nicely, enhancing both the color and nutrient content of your dish.
- Finally, stir in the heavy cream and season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes before serving. This step of adding cream at the end ensures that the soup remains rich and creamy. When serving, don’t forget to garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor!
How to Serve Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Serving your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is all about presentation and comfort. Ladle the soup into shallow bowls, allowing the beautiful colors of the veggies and tortellini to shine. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only enhances flavor but also adds an aesthetically pleasing touch. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a warm roll on the side, perfect for dipping into your creamy broth. For an extra pop of flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil on top. A fresh garden salad can complement this hearty soup perfectly, bringing a refreshing contrast to your meal.
Expert Tips for Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
When making this soup, a few expert tips can elevate your cooking experience:
- Quality of Ingredients: Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. If you’re unsure, try a local grocer that specializes in fresh meats. Fresh tortellini will provide a lovely texture, but if you’re in a pinch, frozen will suffice.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the Italian seasoning to match your personal taste. If you love a little kick, you might add some red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor. Just be mindful of their cooking times, as they may require adjustments.
- Keep It Creamy: Adding the cream at the end of the cooking process preserves its texture and richness. Avoid boiling the soup after adding the cream, as it can cause the cream to curdle.
- Customize to Your Preference: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley right before serving for an aromatic finish.
How to Store Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage beyond its first serving. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, simply warm it up on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, feel free to add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. However, note that the tortellini may become a bit softer upon reheating. Store in freeze-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, then warm as described above.
Variation of Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
While this recipe is delicious as it stands, there are several variations to explore:
- Meat-Free Version: For a vegetarian take, replace the Italian sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or omit it altogether. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor.
- Cheesy Delight: If you’re a cheese lover, consider mixing in some mozzarella or provolone cheese just before serving. It melts beautifully and enhances the creamy texture.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, opt for spicy Italian sausage or incorporate diced jalapeños. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can also balance the spice.
- Different Pasta: While tortellini is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with another type of pasta like penne or shells. Adjust cooking times based on the pasta’s instructions.
- Herb-Infused Broth: Try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a lighter flavor. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or dill during the last hour of cooking can also elevate the taste of your soup.
FAQ
What makes this Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage a must-try?
This soup is a must-try because it combines comforting textures and flavors with minimal effort, making it the perfect dish for busy weeknights or gatherings. The creamy base pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and tender tortellini, creating a balancing act of heartiness and richness that everyone will love.
Can I use frozen tortellini for this soup?
Yes, you can definitely use frozen tortellini in this recipe. Just add it to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and it will turn out just as delicious!
How long can I keep leftovers of Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option, but the texture of the tortellini may change a bit upon reheating.
Can I add more vegetables to this Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile, making it perfect for adding your favorite vegetables. Feel free to experiment with bell peppers, zucchini, or any veggies you have on hand.
What can I serve alongside Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a simple garden salad or a slice of crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the creamy broth. You might also enjoy it with a light pasta dish for a fuller meal.
Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Ingredients
Meat and Proteins
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild, sweet, or spicy) Use high-quality sausage for better flavor.
Pasta
- 1 lb cheese-stuffed tortellini (fresh or frozen) Frozen tortellini can be used; add during last 30 minutes of cooking.
Liquids and Broth
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Add at the end for creaminess.
Vegetables
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced Adds depth to the broth.
- 2 medium carrots, sliced thin Can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- 2 cups fresh or frozen spinach Enhances nutrient content.
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes Provides acidity and flavor.
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning Adjust to personal taste.
- to taste Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil Helps sauté veggies and sausage.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the Italian sausage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it into smaller pieces as it browns. Drain grease and transfer sausage to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then add minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Transfer garlic and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
Cooking
- Add sliced carrots, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and spinach. Cook until tortellini is tender.
- Finally, stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes before serving.
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