Imagine sinking your spoon into a warm, hearty bowl of Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup, where each bite is a comforting embrace. The rich aroma of Italian herbs dances in the air, mingling with the savory scent of sausage to create an irresistible invitation to gather around the table. This isn’t just soup; it’s a celebration of cozy nights spent with loved ones, laughter echoing against the backdrop of simmering flavors. For more inspiration, check out this slow cooker pot roast recipe.
Every time I make this soup, I’m transported back to those chilly evenings when my friends and family would huddle together, sharing stories and warmth. The vibrant colors of the tortellini and fresh spinach are not only pleasing to the eye but also promise a flavor explosion that’ll leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend feast, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting
- With its robust flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to please everyone at your dinner table
- The vibrant red tomatoes and green spinach create a visually stunning dish that will brighten any meal
- It’s incredibly versatile; feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences
I remember serving this delicious soup at a gathering with friends; their faces lit up with delight as they savored every spoonful.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Italian Sausage: Opt for spicy or mild based on your preference; both add incredible flavor.
- Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini works well; just ensure they are cheese-filled for maximum creaminess.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: Choose high-quality tomatoes for richer flavor; don’t forget to include some juice.
- Fresh Spinach: Adds vibrant color and nutrients; throw it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking for optimal freshness.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while enhancing the overall taste.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatic essentials bring depth and warmth; sauté them beforehand for extra flavor.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like basil and oregano adds that classic Italian flair we crave.
- Cream (optional): Stir in some cream towards the end if you want an ultra-creamy finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering everything you need; chop the onion and garlic finely so they can infuse their flavors seamlessly.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and aromatic—this step is crucial for building flavor.
Brown the Sausage: Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned—this takes about 5-7 minutes. The sizzling sound is music to your ears!
Combine Everything in the Crockpot: Transfer the sausage mixture into your crockpot along with diced tomatoes (juice included), chicken broth, tortellini, and Italian seasoning. Mix well!
Set It & Forget It: Cover your crockpot and set it on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours. The smell wafting through your home will make you feel like a culinary wizard!
Finish with Spinach & Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in fresh spinach (and cream if desired). Watch how beautifully it wilts into the soup—it’s like magic!
Now grab a bowl and enjoy every delightful spoonful of this hearty meal—you deserve it!
You Must Know
- This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food
- Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite
- Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty without much effort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results, cook your sausage until browned first, then toss in your veggies before layering in the tortellini and broth. This sequence maximizes flavor and ensures everything is perfectly cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of sausage, like spicy Italian or chicken sausage, for a unique twist on this classic dish. For more inspiration, check out this one-pan chicken sausage recipe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a deeper flavor, sauté onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; you may want more salt or pepper
- Use fresh herbs like basil to elevate the soup’s aroma and taste
Cooking this soup always brings back fond memories of cozy family dinners. My kids love slurping up the tortellini while I get to enjoy their laughter around the table.
FAQ
Can I use frozen tortellini?
Yes, frozen tortellini works great! Just add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for an extra kick!
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute sausage with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender tortellini, and vibrant spinach in a rich, flavorful broth. Simply set it and forget it in your slow cooker while it fills your home with mouthwatering aromas. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences, making it a versatile meal for any occasion. Gather around the table and enjoy this delightful soup with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 3 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart as it browns for about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the sausage mixture to a crockpot. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, tortellini, and Italian seasoning; mix well.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4 hours or high for 2 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in fresh spinach and heavy cream if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
