Diving into this deliciously hearty and comforting Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a cozy kitchen hug. This soup marries the rich flavors of Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach in a tomato-rich broth that simmers slowly to bring out every bit of warmth and depth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just want a satisfying meal that requires minimal effort but maximum flavor, this recipe promises an easy-to-follow method that will fill your home with irresistible aromas and your bowl with pure bliss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe, you only need simple, wholesome ingredients that work together beautifully. Each one plays a vital role, whether adding zest, texture, or richness to the dish, making this soup both comforting and vibrant.
- Olive oil: Perfect for sautéing the aromatics and adding subtle fruity notes.
- Yellow onion: Provides a sweet and savory base flavor that softens during cooking.
- Italian sausage: Brings hearty, spiced depth and protein to the soup.
- Garlic cloves: Lend a fragrant, savory punch that enhances every bite.
- Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a splash of color as they soften.
- Celery stalks: Contribute a mild, aromatic crunch that complements the other veggies.
- Crushed and diced tomatoes: Offer a robust, tangy base for the broth.
- Marinara sauce: Boosts the tomato intensity with Italian herbs and richness.
- Low sodium chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid foundation without overwhelming saltiness.
- Italian seasoning: Blends the classic herbs that make this soup unmistakably Italian.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors to your taste.
- Crushed red pepper: Gives a mild, warming kick that awakens the palate.
- Cheese tortellini: Delivers a satisfyingly soft, cheesy center and tender texture.
- Spinach: Adds a fresh, green touch that brightens the soup and its nutrition.
- Heavy cream: Smoothes and enriches the broth with luscious creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty finish that melts perfectly into the soup.
- Fresh basil (optional): Sprinkled on top for an herbaceous, fresh aroma and flavor kick.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage
Start by heating olive oil over medium-high heat in a pan. Add diced yellow onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onions turn translucent and the garlic fills your kitchen with its wonderful fragrance. Then, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon and browning it well. This step layers in deep, savory flavor and ensures the sausage is nicely caramelized. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Layer the Vegetables and Meat in the Crockpot
Place the chopped carrots and celery at the bottom of your crockpot, creating a flavorful veggie bed. Then, add the cooked sausage and onion mixture on top. This layering helps the vegetables soften evenly and infuse the broth with their sweetness and aroma as it cooks.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and marinara sauce. Follow with 4 cups of low sodium chicken broth, leaving some broth aside to adjust thickness later if needed. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Stir everything gently to combine this colorful, flavorful mix that forms the heart of your soup.
Step 4: Set It and Slow Cook
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow, gentle heat allows the flavors to meld beautifully, turning simple ingredients into a rich and soul-satisfying meal.
Step 5: Add Tortellini, Spinach, Cream, and Parmesan
About 20 to 30 minutes before serving, switch your crockpot to high if it was on low. Stir in the fresh spinach, heavy cream, grated parmesan cheese, and cheese tortellini. Keep the lid off, and let the tortellini cook until just al dente, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Once the pasta is perfectly tender but not mushy, shift the crockpot to warm or turn it off to avoid overcooking.
Step 6: Add Fresh Basil and Serve
Finally, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the soup for a burst of freshness and vibrant color. This simple touch brings the flavors together in a delightful, aromatic finish that’s sure to impress anyone at your table.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly grated parmesan or a few fresh basil leaves are perfect for garnishing this soup, adding visual appeal along with irresistible texture and flavor boosts. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also elevate the presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
Serve this soup with a crusty artisan bread or garlic knots for dipping, which soak up every drop of the rich tomato and cream-infused broth. A simple side salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness and brings bright, refreshing contrast to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and add a sprinkle of parmesan at the table for each guest. For something more special, serve in mini soup crocks or bread bowls and garnish with a basil chiffonade for added elegance and wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the soup from absorbing other odors.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but since the tortellini can become mushy after freezing, it’s best to freeze the soup without the tortellini. You can add fresh tortellini when reheating for best texture. Freeze in a sealed container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra broth if it has thickened. If the tortellini was not added before freezing, add fresh tortellini and cook until al dente during reheating for the perfect finish.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that still adds plenty of flavor. Just be sure to season it well since it’s milder than traditional Italian sausage.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream in the soup?
The heavy cream adds richness and smoothness, but if you prefer a lighter soup, you can omit it or substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free creamer.
Can I prepare this soup in an Instant Pot instead of a crockpot?
Yes! Use the sauté function for the sausage and aromatics, then switch to pressure cook for about 10 minutes before adding the tortellini and finishing on the sauté mode until the pasta is done.
What type of cheese tortellini works best?
Refrigerated cheese tortellini with ricotta or a blend of cheeses works best here. Avoid frozen tortellini since cooking times and textures vary.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Feel free to toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to your taste. Just chop them similarly to the carrots and celery for even cooking during the slow cook time.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe is one of those magical dishes that brings comfort and joy to any table with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, flavorful meal waiting at the end, and it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your home. Give it a try and watch your family and friends fall in love with every cozy spoonful!
Print
Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Crockpot Sausage Tortellini Soup combines Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and creamy cheese tortellini in a rich tomato broth, making for a comforting and delicious slow-cooked meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 4 carrots, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
Tomato and Broth
- 15 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1½ cup marinara sauce
- 4–5 cups low sodium chicken broth
Seasonings
- 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
Finishing Touches
- ½ cup heavy cream
- â…“–½ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Sausage: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet or pan. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until onions become translucent and garlic is fragrant. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks as it cooks. Brown the sausage thoroughly and drain any excess grease.
- Prepare Crockpot Base: Place the chopped carrots and celery at the bottom of the crockpot. Layer the browned sausage and onions over the vegetables. Add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, chicken broth (start with 4 cups), and all seasonings (Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper). Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- 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.
- Add Final Ingredients: About 20-30 minutes before serving, if cooking on low, switch the crockpot to high. Add the refrigerated cheese tortellini, spinach, heavy cream, and grated parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir gently to incorporate and heat until the tortellini is al dente, about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve: Once the tortellini is cooked perfectly, shift the crockpot to warm or remove it from heat to prevent overcooking and mushy pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot for a comforting meal.
Notes
- The quantity of chicken broth can be adjusted to achieve preferred soup thickness—add more for a thinner broth.
- When adding tortellini, closely monitor cooking time to avoid mushy pasta.
- Fresh basil is optional but adds a bright herbal note to the finished soup.
- For spicier soup, increase crushed red pepper amount to taste.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 3-4 days and can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
