Description
Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy days. Packed with savory sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, creamy broth, this slow-cooked soup is sure to become a family favorite. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach (optional, for added greens)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and crumbled, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked sausage to the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables & Liquids: To the crockpot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Cook the Soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
- Add Tortellini: About 30 minutes before serving, add the tortellini to the soup. If using fresh tortellini, it will cook in about 10-15 minutes; frozen tortellini may need 20-25 minutes to fully cook.
- Add Cream & Spinach: Once the tortellini is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach (if using). Continue to cook on high for 10-15 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- Add Vegetables: For extra veggies, add carrots, celery, or zucchini to the crockpot with the other ingredients.
- Spicy Version: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a bit more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute for the heavy cream to make it dairy-free.
- Gluten-Free Version: Substitute regular tortellini with gluten-free tortellini for a gluten-free version.
- Creamier Soup: Add more heavy cream or cream cheese for a richer, creamier texture.
