Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup

Introduction

I recently made Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup for my family, and it quickly became a new favorite in our household. There’s something so comforting about a creamy soup packed with cheesy tortellini, savory sausage, and fresh spinach. The best part? It’s all made in the slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days when you want a warm, hearty meal without much effort. The flavors meld together beautifully as it simmers, and the creamy base with the addition of Parmesan cheese creates a rich, indulgent texture that makes every spoonful feel like a treat.

My family loved how easy it was to prepare, and it’s the kind of dish that everyone can enjoy, from kids to adults. The combination of tender tortellini, flavorful sausage, and fresh spinach made for a satisfying and filling soup that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a great recipe to double up on and have leftovers for the next day, as the flavors only improve with time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage, browned and drained
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz can diced tomatoes
• 9 oz chilled cheese tortellini (1 packet)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach, coarsely chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage:
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
2. Prepare the Soup Base:
   Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and diced tomatoes (with juice) to the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the sausage.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
   Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Slow Cook:
   Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Tortellini and Spinach:
   About 30 minutes before you plan to eat, add the cheese tortellini and chopped spinach to the slow cooker. Stir gently to mix everything.
6. Add Heavy Cream:
   Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let the soup cook on high for another 25-30 minutes, until the tortellini is tender and the soup is hot.
7. Serve:
   Once the tortellini is cooked, remove the slow cooker from the heat. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 7 hours (including slow cooking time)
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high

How to Serve

• As a Main Dish: This soup is hearty and filling, making it perfect on its own as a main dish. Pair it with a side of garlic bread for extra indulgence.
• With a Side Salad: Serve the soup alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the creamy base.
• Topped with Extra Parmesan: Add extra grated Parmesan on top for an even cheesier finish.
• As a Comfort Food: Perfect for chilly days when you need a warm, comforting bowl of soup.

Additional Tips

1. Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version of the soup, swap the Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage.
2. Add More Vegetables: Try adding carrots, celery, or zucchini for added nutrients and flavor.
3. Substitute with Other Greens: If you don’t have spinach, kale or Swiss chard works well as a substitute for a similar texture and flavor.
4. Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when cooking the sausage.
5. Use Fresh Tortellini: While chilled tortellini is convenient, using fresh tortellini will give the soup an even richer texture.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for a heartier base.
• Creamier Version: For a richer soup, add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese to the soup just before serving.
• Spicy Italian Sausage: Use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat, or add diced green chilies for a zesty twist.
• Pasta-Free Version: If you prefer a pasta-free version, omit the tortellini and use more spinach or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• For a Cozy Dinner: This creamy tortellini soup is perfect for a family dinner on a cold evening. Serve with crusty bread and a side salad for a complete meal.
• For a Potluck: This recipe makes a great dish to bring to a potluck or party. It’s easy to transport and can be kept warm in a slow cooker.
• For Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this soup and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s an excellent make-ahead meal for busy nights.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen tortellini?
   Yes, frozen tortellini can be used in this recipe. Just add it to the slow cooker at the same time as the chilled tortellini and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
2. Can I use a different type of sausage?
   Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage if you prefer.
3. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
   Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to make the soup heartier and more nutritious.
4. Can I make this soup on the stove?
   Yes, you can make it on the stove. Cook the sausage and vegetables in a large pot, then add the broth and bring to a boil. Simmer for 20-30 minutes before adding the tortellini and spinach.
5. Can I use heavy whipping cream instead of heavy cream?
   Yes, you can substitute heavy whipping cream for the heavy cream in the recipe, though it will make the soup even richer.
6. Can I add other types of cheese?
   Yes, you can add more cheeses like mozzarella or a dash of Parmesan to give the soup a richer flavor.
7. How can I make this soup spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or spicy sausage for an extra kick.
8. Can I use canned spinach instead of fresh?
   Fresh spinach works best in this soup for flavor and texture, but you can substitute it with canned spinach if necessary. Just be sure to drain it well before adding it to the soup.
9. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time. Simply store leftovers in the fridge or freezer and reheat when ready to serve.
10. What other seasonings can I add to the soup?
    Feel free to experiment with other seasonings like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the soup.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. With its rich, creamy texture and hearty flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this soup is easy to make and sure to satisfy. Plus, with its flexibility for variations, you can adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. So, grab your slow cooker, gather the ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup!

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