Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage

“A rich and hearty soup with Italian sausage, creamy broth, tender tortellini, and fresh spinach—perfect for a cozy meal!”

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Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
  • 1 (8 oz) package cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 3–5 minutes, until the onion softens.
  3. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Base Ingredients

  1. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the slow cooker.
  2. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

  1. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Step 4: Add Tortellini and Cream

  1. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and heavy cream.
  2. Cover and cook on HIGH until the tortellini is tender, about 20–30 minutes.

Step 5: Add Spinach

  1. Stir in the fresh spinach just before serving. The residual heat will wilt the spinach.
  2. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  2. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and cheese tortellini creates a luxurious texture.
  • Hearty and Filling: Packed with sausage, pasta, and vegetables, this soup is a meal in itself.
  • Simple and Convenient: Let the slow cooker do the work for you!

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Substitute Tortellini: Swap cheese tortellini for meat or spinach-filled tortellini for variety.
  2. Add More Veggies: Include diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
  3. Adjust Thickness: For a thicker soup, add a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
  • Freeze: This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months, but it’s best to add the tortellini fresh when reheating to avoid overcooking.

This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a comforting and delicious dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or easy family dinners. Enjoy the hearty flavors and creamy goodness in every bite! 🍲✨❤️