When the temperature drops, nothing beats a bowl of Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup. This Crockpot Tortellini Soup recipe is the definition of comfort food. Rich, velvety, and packed with Italian sausage and cheese-filled pasta, it is a hearty meal that cooks itself while you go about your day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hands-Off Cooking
The slow cooker does all the work. You simply brown the meat, toss everything in, and let the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for busy workdays or lazy weekends.
Rich & Flavorful
The combination of spicy sausage, tangy tomatoes, and creamy broth creates a complex flavor profile. The addition of cream cheese makes the soup incredibly luxurious without being overly heavy.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 onion Small onion, diced
- 2 cans Diced tomatoes (14oz)
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 1 package Cheese tortellini (10oz)
- 2 cups Fresh spinach
- 8 oz Cream cheese, cubed
Instructions
- Brown sausage and onion; drain fat.
- Add meat, tomatoes, and broth to Crockpot. Cook LOW 4-6 hrs.
- Stir in cream cheese and tortellini; cook HIGH 30 mins.
- Stir in spinach and serve.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Italian sausage (ground), onions, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cream cheese, cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach. The tortellini makes it filling, while the spinach adds color and nutrition.
Smart Substitutions
You can use turkey sausage or ground beef seasoned with Italian herbs. Kale is a great substitute for spinach if you want greens that hold their texture better. For a lighter soup, use evaporated milk instead of cream cheese, though it will be less thick.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Brown the sausage and onions in a skillet; drain the fat. Add the meat, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings to the Crockpot.
Cooking Phase
Cook on LOW for 4-6 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cubed cream cheese and the tortellini. Switch to HIGH and cook until the pasta is tender and the cheese is melted. Stir in the fresh spinach right at the end to wilt it.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
To avoid lumps, soften the cream cheese or whisk it with a ladle of hot broth before adding it to the slow cooker. This ensures a silky smooth base.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t add the tortellini too early. It only needs about 20-30 minutes. If left in for hours, it will bloat and fall apart.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Crusty bread is essential for dipping.
Pairing Suggestions
A light green salad is a good balance. If you love soup season, you should also check out this Best Homemade Chicken Soup for another classic option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I make this on the stove?
Yes. Simmer the base for 20 minutes, then add tortellini and cream cheese and cook for another 10 minutes.
Q2? Can I freeze it?
It’s best to freeze the base before adding the cream and pasta. Freezing pasta in soup can make it mushy.
Q3? Is it spicy?
Only if you use spicy Italian sausage. Use sweet sausage for a mild version.
Conclusion
This Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup is a winter essential. It warms you from the inside out and feeds a crowd with minimal effort.
| Low Heat | 4-6 Hours |
|---|---|
| High Heat | 2-3 Hours |
| Finish | 30 Mins (Pasta) |
