Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe

There's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage on a chilly evening. This hearty dish combines rich Italian sausage, tender cheese-filled tortellini, and a creamy tomato broth for a meal that's as cozy as your favorite sweater.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when I was searching for an easy dinner that I could set and forget during busy weekdays. Over time, it has become a household favorite, loved for its bold flavors and the way it brings everyone to the table. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage

Get ready to fall head over heels for this comforting and satisfying soup. It's everything you want in a weeknight dinner – quick to prepare, family-friendly, and packed with incredible flavor.

First off, this recipe is ridiculously easy to make. All you need to do is brown the sausage, toss everything into the crockpot, and let it simmer away. By the time dinner rolls around, you’ve got a dish that tastes like you’ve been working on it all day.

The flavors are unmatched. Italian sausage adds a touch of spice and richness, while the cheese tortellini gives each bite a delightful, creamy center. Paired with the luscious tomato broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food.

This soup is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining friends, it’s a dish that everyone will rave about. Plus, it pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping!

Finally, it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different types of tortellini, add extra vegetables, or even swap out the sausage for chicken or turkey to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let’s break them down to see how they work together to create magic in your crockpot.

Italian sausage is the star of the show. Choose a mild or spicy variety depending on your heat tolerance. The sausage brings a robust, savory flavor that permeates the entire dish.

Cheese tortellini adds richness and texture. Whether you choose fresh or frozen tortellini, this pasta elevates the soup from good to extraordinary. The cheese filling complements the tomato base beautifully.

Crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce form the heart of the broth. They give the soup its deep, comforting flavor and rich color. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes.

Spinach or kale provides a pop of color and a touch of earthiness. Adding leafy greens toward the end of the cooking process ensures they stay tender and fresh.

To create the creamy element, use heavy cream or half-and-half. This step transforms the soup into a velvety, satisfying meal without making it overly heavy.

Finally, you’ll need basic seasonings like garlic, onion, and chicken broth to round out the flavors. If you love a hint of spice, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

No special equipment is required – just your trusty crockpot and a skillet for browning the sausage.

How To Make This Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage

Creating this hearty soup is as simple as it gets. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy.

Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring it gets a nice, golden crust. This step locks in the flavor and prevents the sausage from becoming too greasy in the soup.

While the sausage cooks, chop your onion and mince the garlic. Once the sausage is browned, transfer it to the crockpot along with the onion and garlic. These aromatics will add depth and warmth to the broth.

Next, add your crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth to the crockpot. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and spinach. The tortellini will cook perfectly in the hot broth, absorbing all the flavors without turning mushy.

To finish, add the heavy cream or half-and-half and give it one last stir. Let it cook for another 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors. The soup is now ready to serve!

The total time is mostly hands-off, making this a perfect recipe for busy days. The result is a hearty, flavorful soup that tastes like pure comfort.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage store beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or enjoying the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Refrigerate any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature before sealing it.

If you’d like to freeze the soup, wait to add the tortellini until reheating. The pasta tends to lose its texture after freezing. Store the broth and sausage mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

To reheat, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight, then warm it on the stove or in the microwave. Add fresh tortellini and spinach during reheating for the best results.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative for a lighter or meat-free option.

Experiment with different types of tortellini. Spinach and cheese or mushroom-filled tortellini add a unique twist to the dish.

Add extra vegetables like diced zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers for more texture and nutrition. They’ll blend seamlessly into the soup.

For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes.

If you prefer a less creamy soup, omit the heavy cream and stick with the tomato-based broth. It’s just as delicious and slightly lighter.

The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative. This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a dish that’s meant to be tailored to your taste and pantry staples. Enjoy!

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