Name: Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup
Prep time: 4 min
Cook time: PT-492138H15M16S
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground Italian sausage; 1 medium onion (diced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium carrots (peeled and thinly sliced); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 packet (19-ounce) frozen cheese tortellini; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; Parsley for garnish

Jump to Recipe · Leave a Review

The aroma of simmering Italian sausage wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm blanket of comfort. Imagine cozy evenings with friends or family gathered around the table, bowls filled with a luscious, creamy soup that begs to be savored. The vibrant colors of tender carrots and fresh spinach make every bite as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup brings back memories of laughter-filled dinners at Grandma’s house, where each spoonful felt like a hug from the inside.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup

Whether it’s a chilly fall evening or simply a night in, there’s something undeniably inviting about letting a crockpot do all the work for you. This hearty soup is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and fond moments, reminding us that comfort food should be as easy as it is delicious. I can’t wait for you to make this delightful crockpot creation and share the joy it brings at your own table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip this up in a snap; it takes just 4 minutes of prep, and then the crockpot does the rest!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is a symphony of creamy, savory goodness, from the rich sausage to the tender tortellini.
Eye-Catching Appeal: This soup is as beautiful as it is delicious, showcasing vibrant greens and orange carrots against a creamy backdrop.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even impressing guests at a casual gathering.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easy to make gluten-free by using gluten-free tortellini and low-carb with zucchini noodles instead.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound ground Italian sausage: The star of the show, adding rich flavor and heartiness to the soup. Opt for mild or spicy, depending on your taste.
1 medium onion (diced): It provides sweetness and depth to the dish. Yellow onions or sweet onions work beautifully.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings that aromatic kick, elevating the flavor. Fresh is best, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch.
2 medium carrots (peeled and thinly sliced): Carrots add color and a touch of sweetness. You can also use baby carrots if you prefer.
4 cups chicken broth: This forms the soup’s base. Use low-sodium for better control over salt levels, or homemade for extra richness.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that rounds out the flavors perfectly; feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, but adjust to your preference.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth; freshly cracked pepper is ideal for the best flavor.
1 packet (19-ounce) frozen cheese tortellini: A comforting addition that makes the soup hearty and satisfying.
1 ½ cups heavy cream: This is what transforms the broth into a creamy wonderland, offering richness you’ll crave.
2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves: Adds a pop of color and nutrients. You can substitute kale, but it will alter the flavor slightly.
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese: For that final cheesy touch, emphasizing the Italian flair. Consider freshly grated for a stronger flavor.
Parsley for garnish: Fresh parsley brightens the dish and gives a lovely presentation.

How to Make Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup

Brown the Sausage: Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes, and the sausage should be fully cooked and browned. After cooking, drain off any excess grease to prevent a greasy soup later.

Combine Ingredients: Transfer the browned sausage to your trusty slow cooker. Then, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots. Give everything a good stir, allowing those veggies to mingle with the sausage, which will amplify their flavors.

Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This is the moment everything starts to come together, so make sure to stir well to combine all those lovely ingredients. You’ll already start to smell the enticing aroma of Italian herbs!

Set the Heat: Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. You want the carrots to become tender, and for the flavors to marry beautifully. You’ll be rewarded with an inviting aroma filling your home.

Add the Tortellini: About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, gently stir in the frozen cheese tortellini. Cover and let it cook until the pasta is tender and cooked through, typically 20–30 minutes. This is where the magic happens as the tortellini absorbs all the savory broth.

Stir in the Cream and Greens: Once the tortellini is ready, it’s time to elevate your soup. Stir in the heavy cream, fresh spinach, and Parmesan cheese. The cream will make the soup luxuriously velvety, while the spinach wilts down, adding lovely color and nutrients. Let everything cook on LOW for an additional 5–10 minutes.

Adjust Seasoning and Serve: After the soup becomes creamy and the spinach wilts, taste it! Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper as desired. Ladle the fragrant soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan for that perfect finishing touch!

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let your Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you need to store it for longer, consider freezing it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or cream if it seems too thick. Keep in mind that the tortellini may absorb some liquid during storage, but a quick stir will refresh the creamy goodness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid browning the sausage too long; you want it cooked through but not dried out.
Make sure to sauté the garlic just until fragrant to prevent it from burning, which can lead to bitterness.
If you’re short on time, you can always use pre-cooked sausage to speed things up.
Experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition.
If you prefer a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or milk, but keep in mind this will change the creaminess of the soup.
You can make the entire soup ahead of time and reheat it in the crockpot on low when you’re ready to serve.

This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup is not only simple but serves as a delightful reminder of how food has the power to bring people together. Each spoonful is a burst of flavor and comforting texture, making it a dish you’ll want to share with loved ones. Feel free to play with the recipe – add your favorite veggies or even switch up the protein.

Don’t forget to savor each moment. This soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create memories in your kitchen, where every bowlful can spark joy, warmth, and togetherness.

Recipe FAQs

Can I substitute the sausage?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of Italian sausage, feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless alternative for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the flavor profile matches to keep the beloved taste of this soup intact.

Can I use fresh tortellini instead of frozen?

Yes! If you have access to fresh tortellini, you can use it instead. Just add the fresh pasta later in the cooking process—about 10-15 minutes before you plan to serve, ensuring they cook quickly without becoming mushy.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Definitely! To make a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese option. You won’t sacrifice flavor with these swaps!

What can I add for extra flavor?

For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of lemon juice before serving for brightness. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can also add a delightful herbal note that enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.