Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup

Welcome to our cozy kitchen corner, where today we’re diving into a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a cold day: Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup. This recipe is perfect for busy individuals and families looking for a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort. Ideal for weeknight dinners or a lazy weekend lunch, this soup will become a staple in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a culinary gem for several reasons:

Ease of Preparation: Just a few minutes of prep work, and your slow cooker does the rest.
Flavorful and Filling: The combination of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and creamy broth creates a rich, satisfying dish.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavors and textures in every spoonful.
Versatile: This recipe is easily adaptable to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
Ingredients

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 package (9 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Break it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Once fully cooked, transfer the sausage to your slow cooker.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Transfer these to the slow cooker as well.
Combine Ingredients: Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried basil, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Add Tortellini and Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, add the cheese tortellini and heavy cream to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, then cover and continue cooking on low until the tortellini is tender.
Finish with Spinach: In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Slow cooker
Skillet
Knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon
Ladle
Tips and Variations

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Recipe Tips
Browning the Sausage: This step adds depth of flavor to the soup. Don’t skip it!
Heavy Cream Substitutes: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk.
Tortellini Options: Feel free to use meat-filled or spinach tortellini instead of cheese tortellini for a different flavor profile.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Extra Veggies: Add chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers for additional nutrients and texture.
Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin it out as it tends to thicken when refrigerated.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy soup pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the soup. For drinks, consider a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing iced tea.

FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini?

Yes, you can use frozen tortellini. Add it to the slow cooker directly from frozen, but you may need to extend the cooking time slightly until the tortellini is tender.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Absolutely! Follow the same steps, but instead of using a slow cooker, simmer the soup in a large pot on the stove over low heat for about 45 minutes. Add the tortellini and cream during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free tortellini and ensure that your sausage and chicken broth are also gluten-free.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove over medium heat.

Call to Action

I hope you enjoy making and savoring this Slow Cooker Creamy Sausage & Tortellini Soup as much as I do. It’s a delightful meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and culinary tips. Happy cooking!