Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe

Hearty Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe For Cozy Nights

My weeknight dinners have been completely revolutionized by this hearty crockpot tortellini soup with sausage that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort.

Savory Italian sausage mingles perfectly with tender cheese-filled pasta swirling in a rich, aromatic broth.

Robust vegetables add depth and nutrition to each spoonful of this one-pot wonder.

Busy home cooks appreciate how simple ingredients combine into something extraordinary without hours of complicated preparation.

Fragrant herbs like basil and oregano infuse the soup with classic Mediterranean flavors that make everyone feel nourished and satisfied.

Winter evenings call for warm, satisfying meals that hug you from the inside out.

Grab a ladle and savor every delicious moment of this soul-warming soup that promises to become your new favorite cold-weather companion.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this soup hearty and flavorful?

The combination of Italian sausage, tortellini, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning creates a rich and satisfying soup that’s packed with robust flavors and textures.

  • Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, turkey sausage, or even chicken sausage based on your preference or dietary needs.

  • Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This crockpot tortellini soup is perfect for preparing ahead of time and can be easily reheated, making it a convenient meal option for busy weekdays.

  • How can I make the soup more nutritious?

Add extra vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots during the cooking process to boost the nutritional value and add more depth to the soup.

Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Explained

  • Simplify Meal Prep: Toss ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic, creating a hearty meal with minimal hands-on cooking.
  • Packed with Comfort: Combine savory sausage, tender tortellini, and rich cream for a satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.
  • Versatile Family Pleaser: Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this soup adapts easily to different tastes and dietary preferences.
  • Nutrition Boost: Sneak in extra greens like spinach for added nutrients without compromising the delicious flavor profile of the dish.

Ingredients For Crockpot Tortellini Soup

Meat Base:
  • Sausage: A flavorful protein that adds richness and depth to the soup.
Aromatics and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Onion, Garlic: These ingredients provide a savory foundation and aromatic base for the soup.
  • Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings traditional Italian flavor to the dish.
Liquid and Additional Ingredients:
  • Chicken Broth: The primary liquid that creates the soup's foundation and adds subtle chicken flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Provide acidity and texture to the soup.
  • Tortellini: Cheese-filled pasta that serves as the hearty carbohydrate component of the soup.
  • Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates a creamy texture.
  • Spinach: An optional fresh green that adds nutrition and color.
  • Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance and balance the overall flavor of the soup.

How To Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup

Step 1: Crumble and Brown Sausage

Heat a skillet over medium temperature and break down the sausage into small, bite-sized pieces. Cook until the meat turns golden brown and releases its rich flavors.

Carefully drain away any excess grease to keep the soup light and delicious.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base

Transfer the browned sausage into your crockpot.

Add the following ingredients:
  • Chopped onion
  • Minced garlic
  • Chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Italian seasoning

Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup

Allow the soup to simmer and develop deep flavors. Set your crockpot to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours, or choose high heat for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.

Step 4: Add Creamy Goodness

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, introduce:
  • Cheese tortellini
  • Heavy cream

Gently stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined and the tortellini is heated through.

Step 5: Final Touches

If desired, toss in fresh spinach leaves just before serving.

The residual heat will beautifully wilt the greens. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Serve the soup piping hot and enjoy the comforting blend of flavors.

Tips For Crockpot Tortellini Soup

  • Drain sausage thoroughly to prevent excess oil from making the soup greasy and heavy.
  • Opt for fresh tortellini instead of frozen for a more authentic texture and richer flavor profile.
  • Add spinach just before serving to maintain its bright green color and prevent wilting during long cooking times.
  • Choose low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and adjust seasoning according to personal taste preferences.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk and use lean turkey sausage to reduce overall calories.

Variations On Crockpot Tortellini Soup

  • Vegetarian Comfort: Replace sausage with plant-based crumbles or diced mushrooms for a meat-free version. Add extra herbs for depth of flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap tortellini with gluten-free cheese tortellini or replace with quinoa pasta shells. Ensure chicken broth is certified gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Light Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter, slightly nutty profile. Choose low-fat sausage to reduce overall calorie content.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Spin: Add red pepper flakes, chopped kalamata olives, and swap Italian seasoning with oregano and fresh basil for a zesty Mediterranean-inspired soup.

Serving Suggestions For Crockpot Tortellini Soup

  • Cozy Dinner Companion: Pair this hearty soup with crusty garlic bread for a perfect dip and extra flavor absorption.
  • Cheese Lover's Dream: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or mozzarella on top just before serving to add a creamy, rich finish.
  • Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped kale or fresh baby spinach at the end for added nutrition and a pop of green color.
  • Winter Comfort Bowl: Serve in deep ceramic mugs with a side of warm breadsticks for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.

Proper Storage For Crockpot Tortellini Soup

  • Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it cools completely before storing.
  • Freeze the soup without tortellini and cream for better texture, storing in freezer-safe containers for 2-3 months.
  • Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheat on stovetop by warming gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching and maintain creamy consistency.
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Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe

Creamy Crockpot Tortellini Soup With Sausage Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 6 hours 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty crockpot tortellini soup with sausage delivers comfort in a bowl, blending Italian-inspired flavors with simple slow cooker magic. Cheese-filled pasta, savory sausage, and rich broth combine for a satisfying meal you can enjoy with minimal kitchen effort.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups spinach
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes

Liquids and Seasonings:

  • 4 cups (960 milliliters) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Pasta:

  • 1 bag (10 ounces / 283 grams) cheese tortellini

Instructions

  1. Sear ground sausage in a hot skillet, fragmenting into small, uniform pieces until golden brown and fully cooked. Eliminate any accumulated fat through careful draining.
  2. Transfer browned sausage into slow cooker, layering with chopped onion, minced garlic, robust chicken broth, zesty diced tomatoes, and aromatic Italian seasoning.
  3. Allow mixture to simmer and meld flavors on low temperature for 6-7 hours, developing rich, complex taste profile.
  4. Approximately 40 minutes before serving, introduce cheese-filled tortellini and velvety heavy cream into the simmering liquid. Gently incorporate to ensure even distribution.
  5. During final cooking moments, delicately fold fresh spinach leaves into soup, permitting them to gracefully wilt and infuse subtle verdant notes.
  6. Taste and calibrate seasoning with judicious pinches of salt and freshly cracked black pepper.
  7. Ladle steaming soup into warmed ceramic bowls, presenting immediately while temperatures remain optimal for maximum enjoyment.

Notes

  • Choose lean sausage varieties like turkey or chicken for a healthier twist on the classic recipe.
  • Keep tortellini slightly undercooked when adding to the crockpot to prevent mushy texture during extended cooking.
  • Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that still maintains creamy consistency.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the soup’s flavor profile and add a vibrant finishing touch when sprinkled on top just before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 18 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 15 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
John Conley

John Conley

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Writing, Home Cooking Techniques, Seasonal Ingredient Utilization​

Education

Lane Community College, Eugene, OR
​Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on foundational cooking techniques, kitchen safety, and menu planning.

​Gotham Writers Workshop, New York, NY
Course in Food Writing
Explored the art of crafting engaging culinary narratives and recipe development.


John grew up where food meant connection: big bowls, warm kitchens, and meals that told a story. After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Lane Community College and diving deep into food writing at Gotham Writers Workshop, he found his calling: turning everyday recipes into something worth savoring.
At The Liffey, John’s focus is all about crafting dishes that feel easy, honest, and full of heart.

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