Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Soup

• Effortless Comfort: Seriously, this recipe is all about convenience. Brown the sausage, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do its magic1.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of savory sausage, cheesy tortellini, and a rich, herby broth is simply irresistible2.
• Customizable: This soup is a blank canvas! Add your favorite veggies, swap the sausage, or spice it up with red pepper flakes1.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick and easy meal down the road1.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-6 hours on low, or 2-3 hours on high
• Serving Size: 6-8 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
• 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sausage mixture to a slow cooker. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours.
5. Add Tortellini & Spinach: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the cheese tortellini and chopped spinach. Cook until the tortellini is tender and the spinach is wilted.
6. Creamy Finish (Optional): If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half for extra richness.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping2.
• Side Salad: Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• Garlic Bread: Elevate your soup night with some cheesy garlic bread.

Tips for Customization

• Swap the Sausage: Use ground beef, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian sausage crumbles.
• Add Veggies: Stir in chopped carrots, celery, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the onion and garlic1.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Change the Cheese: Use different types of tortellini, like spinach and cheese or mushroom and cheese.
• Make it Lighter: Use chicken broth and skip the heavy cream for a lighter version.

FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Can I use frozen tortellini?

• Yes, you can! Add the frozen tortellini directly to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking time.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

• Absolutely! After browning the sausage and sautéing the aromatics, transfer the mixture to a large pot. Add the remaining ingredients (except the tortellini and spinach) and bring to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, then add the tortellini and spinach and cook until tender.

How do I store leftovers?

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2-3 months.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Enjoy this cozy and delicious Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup! I know it will become a family favorite in your home, just like it is in mine.