Crockpot Tortellini Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crockpot Tortellini Soup
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this delightful Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage. This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the heartiness of cheese tortellini, making it a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings!
A Personal Story Behind My Crockpot Tortellini Soup Journey
Growing up, my grandmother often made a version of tortellini soup that brought the family together during chilly evenings. The aroma of simmering sausage and fresh vegetables filled our home, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Now, as I prepare this dish for my own family, it reminds me of those cherished moments and the love that goes into cooking. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!
What Makes This Crockpot Tortellini Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it utilizes the convenience of a crockpot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time. Second, the combination of hearty ingredients like Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy tortellini creates a satisfying texture and depth of flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the creaminess to suit your taste.
The Full Crockpot Tortellini Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced or chopped
- 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage and onions over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the sausage with a spoon until browned. This step adds a rich flavor base to your soup. Make sure to drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This enhances the overall taste. Then, transfer the sausage mixture to a Crockpot.
- To the Crockpot, add the carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with juices, and chicken broth. For quicker cooking (3-4 hours), finely chop the carrots; for longer cooking (7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high), chop them larger to ensure they hold their texture.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini, cream, and spinach. Set the heat to high and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Enjoy the delightful aroma of your soup as it simmers!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crockpot Tortellini Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the meal with some crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a lighter version, skip the cream or use a lighter alternative like milk. You can also add other vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers, or herbs like basil and oregano for even more flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you add denser vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian? Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with a plant-based sausage or simply add more vegetables and beans for protein.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well! Just make sure to leave out the cream until you reheat it, as dairy can separate when frozen.
Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Equipment
- Crockpot For cooking the soup slowly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 0.5 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced or chopped
- 2 sticks celery, finely chopped
- 1 can (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 ounce) diced tomatoes with juices
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 0.75 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 to taste salt & pepper
Instructions
- In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage and onions over medium heat for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the sausage with a spoon until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds, then transfer the mixture to a Crockpot.
- Add the carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with juices, and chicken broth to the Crockpot. Adjust carrot size for cooking time.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini, cream, and spinach. Set the heat to high and stir occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.