If you’ve been searching for a soul-warming meal that combines hearty flavors with effortless preparation, this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is about to become your new kitchen obsession. Imagine tender Italian sausage mingling with vibrant carrots, celery, and spinach in a rich tomato and cream broth, all tied together with cheesy tortellini that melt in your mouth. Perfect for those busy days when you want comfort food without standing over the stove, this soup delivers a symphony of textures and tastes that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. Let me take you through every step of making this fantastic dish that’s bound to impress your family and guests alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each add their own charm to the final bowl. From the fragrant garlic to the creamy Parmesan, every item plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, giving the soup a flavorful base.
- 1 yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 1 lb Italian sausage: The star protein that brings savory richness with a touch of spice.
- 4-5 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the soup with an irresistible aromatic punch.
- 4 carrots (chopped): Adds natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
- 3 celery stalks (chopped): Lends a subtle earthiness and enhances texture.
- 15 oz can crushed tomatoes: Provides a hearty tomato base for the broth.
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes: Adds chunks of tomato for texture and tang.
- 1½ cup marinara sauce: Boosts depth of tomato flavor with Italian herbs.
- 4-5 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup flavorful without overpowering saltiness.
- 2-3 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that elevates every bite.
- ½ tsp each salt and pepper (more to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and enhance flavors.
- ¼-½ tsp crushed pepper: Adds a mild heat and complexity.
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini: The comforting, cheesy pasta that takes this soup to another level.
- 2 large handfuls spinach: Fresh greens that bring brightness and nutrition.
- ½ cup heavy cream: For velvety richness that rounds out the broth beautifully.
- ⅓-½ cup parmesan cheese (grated): Adds a salty, nutty finish that melts perfectly into the soup.
- ¼ cup fresh basil (chopped) (optional): For a fragrant, fresh herbal note as a final touch.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Sausage
Begin by warming the olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onions become translucent and the garlic releases its mouthwatering aroma. Next, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks as it cooks until nicely browned. This step seals in the sausage’s flavor and adds a savory depth that sets the foundation for your soup. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to avoid greasiness in the final dish.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crockpot
Now, it’s time to build the soup’s flavor from the base up. Place the chopped carrots and celery into the bottom of your crockpot—these veggies slowly soften and sweeten as they cook. Add the cooked sausage and sautéed onions on top. Then pour in both the crushed and diced tomatoes, the marinara sauce, and chicken broth. The broth gives the soup its silky base, while the combination of three tomato components offers richness and texture. Don’t forget to sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine those vibrant flavors.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Set your crockpot to low and let it work its magic for about 6 to 7 hours, or choose high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re short on time. The slow cooking allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the vegetables to become tender without losing their character. You’ll come back to a pot full of comforting warmth that feels like a homemade hug.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Creamy Finishing Touches
About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, increase the crockpot to high if it has been on low. Stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and tortellini. The tortellini cooks quickly and absorbs the soup’s flavors, while the cream and cheese create a luscious, indulgent broth. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and keep an eye on the tortellini so it stays delightfully al dente. Once it’s perfectly tender, shift the heat to warm or turn the crockpot off to prevent mushiness.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped basil for a burst of color and aromatic brightness. This final step will elevate your soup visually and taste-wise, creating a dish that’s both inviting and comforting.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese on top makes each bowl feel special. You can also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These garnishes enhance both the presentation and the flavor, inviting everyone to dig in with gusto.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness and adds a fresh crunch for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, serve the soup in mini crockpots or bread bowls to make it feel extra cozy and fun. You could also offer a toppings bar with shredded cheese, chopped herbs, and crushed red pepper so guests can customize their bowls to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover soup should be allowed to cool before transferring into airtight containers and stored in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for easy lunches or weeknight dinners.
Freezing
While the soup freezes well, it’s best to freeze it before adding the tortellini and cream, as pasta can sometimes become mushy after thawing. Store the base soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, and add fresh tortellini and cream when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If reheating frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Add fresh spinach, cream, Parmesan, and tortellini during reheating to keep textures fresh and flavors vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and will still bring great flavor to this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe. Just make sure it’s well seasoned or Italian-flavored for the best results.
Is it okay to use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Yes, you can use dried tortellini, but keep in mind that it will need longer to cook. Add it earlier towards the end of slow cooking and check frequently to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure thing! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or add extra beans and vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
Why do you add cream at the end?
Adding cream towards the end preserves its rich texture and prevents it from curdling during the long cooking time. It also creates a silky, luxurious broth just before serving.
Can I prepare the ingredients the night before?
Yes! Dice your veggies, brown the sausage, and store everything separately then assemble the crockpot in the morning. This makes your slow cooker process even easier and faster.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of fuss but rewards you with creamy, savory, and satisfying flavors every single time. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup brings warmth and joy in every spoonful. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it and watch how this nourishing dish quickly becomes a cherished favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (on high) to 7 hours (on low)
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 7 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and comforting Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup featuring Italian sausage, tender vegetables, flavorful tomatoes, and creamy cheese tortellini, slow-cooked to perfection for a warming meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cups marinara sauce
- 4–5 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2–3 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper (more to taste)
- ¼–½ tsp crushed red pepper
Pasta and Greens
- 20 oz refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 large handfuls spinach
Dairy and Garnish
- ½ cup heavy cream
- â…“–½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics and sausage: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Add Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks as it cooks. Brown the sausage thoroughly and drain any excess grease to keep the soup lean.
- Assemble ingredients in the crockpot: Place chopped carrots and celery at the bottom of the crockpot. Layer the browned sausage and onion mixture on top. Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, and chicken broth (starting with 4 cups, add more later if needed). Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow cook the soup: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to soften perfectly.
- Add tortellini and finishing ingredients: About 20-30 minutes before serving, increase the crockpot to high if it was on low. Stir in spinach, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and cheese tortellini. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tortellini is al dente but not mushy.
- Final touches and serve: Once the tortellini reaches desired tenderness, switch the crockpot to warm or remove from heat to avoid overcooking. Garnish with fresh chopped basil if using. Serve warm with extra parmesan cheese on the side.
Notes
- Adjust chicken broth quantity depending on desired soup thickness; add broth after cooking for thinner consistency.
- Drain sausage grease thoroughly for a less greasy soup.
- Use refrigerated tortellini as frozen tortellini may alter cooking times.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a nice fresh flavor.
- Keep tortellini cooking time monitored to avoid mushy pasta.
- Leftovers reheat well and may thicken; add broth or water when reheating if needed.
