This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this slow cooker recipe combines flavorful ingredients that simmer together to create a rich, hearty soup. With its creamy texture and delicious flavors, this dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Simply toss the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do the work while you go about your day.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of savory sausage, sweet tomatoes, and creamy tortellini offers a delightful taste in every bite.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This soup is loved by both kids and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or dinner parties.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup provides a wholesome meal option without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make this delicious Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, you will need some essential tools that simplify the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Spoon (for stirring)
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow Cooker: This tool allows you to prepare meals ahead of time, providing a convenient way to enjoy home-cooked meals without active cooking time.
- Skillet: Ideal for sautéing ingredients like sausage and onions to enhance their flavors before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Cutting Board: A safe surface for chopping vegetables to ensure uniform pieces that cook evenly in your soup.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
- 16 ounces Italian sausage (see note)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced or chopped)
- 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Tortellini:
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
For Creaminess:
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream (optional)
For Freshness:
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Add the sausage meat and onions to a skillet. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes, breaking the sausage meat up with your spoon until browned. If needed, spoon out some of the excess fat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Add the sausage mixture to your Crockpot. Next, add the carrots, celery, canned tomatoes, and chicken broth.
Step 3: Adjust Cooking Time Based on Carrot Size
Keep in mind that if you want the soup to cook in 3-4 hours, chop the carrots pretty finely. If cooking it for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, you can chop them larger.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach
About 30 minutes prior to serving, add in your cheese tortellini, cream, and spinach (set heat to high). Give it a stir occasionally. Season with salt & pepper as needed before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious bowl of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage!
How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is not just a comforting meal but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty soup.
With Crusty Bread
- French Baguette – Slice a fresh baguette and toast it lightly for a crunchy accompaniment.
- Garlic Bread – Spread butter and minced garlic on bread, then bake until golden for an aromatic side.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Basil – Finely chop fresh basil and sprinkle over each bowl for a burst of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grate some Parmesan on top just before serving to add creaminess and depth.
As a Main Dish
- Serve in Bowls – Ladle the soup into deep bowls, allowing everyone to savor its richness.
- Add a Salad – Pair with a light salad, such as arugula or mixed greens, dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar.
How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Perfecting your crockpot tortellini soup takes just a few simple steps. Follow these tips for an even tastier dish.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality sausage to enhance the flavors.
- Adjust Cooking Time – If you’re short on time, cut veggies smaller for quicker cooking; larger pieces work well for longer cooking times.
- Experiment with Broths – Try using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a different taste.
- Add More Greens – Incorporate kale or Swiss chard along with spinach for added nutrients and color.
Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Pairing side dishes with your crockpot tortellini soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese makes a refreshing side.
- Caprese Salad – Sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a bright contrast to the soup.
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy green element that complements the soup perfectly.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with quinoa and veggies provide a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings additional depth to your meal.
- Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad tossed in olive oil and herbs offers a delightful texture contrast alongside the warm soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using the wrong sausage: Always choose a quality Italian sausage or turkey sausage for the best flavor. Avoid overly processed options that can change the soup’s taste.
- Not sautéing the sausage: Sautéing before adding to the crockpot enhances flavor and reduces excess fat. Don’t skip this step for a richer soup.
- Overcooking the tortellini: Adding tortellini too early can lead to mushy pasta. Add it about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor, so taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed before serving. This ensures a well-rounded dish.
- Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. Avoid canned or frozen alternatives for this recipe to keep it vibrant and healthy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Let the soup cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving space for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; however, tortellini may lose texture upon thawing.
Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish and heat until warm.
- Microwave: Use microwave-safe bowls and heat in short intervals, stirring between sessions until heated through.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?
Cooking takes about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Adjust based on your schedule!
Can I customize my Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor.
What if I want a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can easily replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives or omit it entirely while adding more beans or lentils for protein.
How do I store leftover Crockpot Tortellini Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness any night of the week!
Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the ultimate comfort dish that effortlessly combines savory flavors and creamy textures. This easy slow cooker recipe allows you to throw in fresh ingredients, let them simmer, and come home to a warm, hearty meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this soup features tender tortellini, nutritious vegetables, and a rich broth that everyone will love. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl.
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Ingredients
- 16 ounces Italian sausage (or turkey sausage)
- 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced or chopped)
- 2 sticks celery (chopped finely)
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 (9 ounce) packages refrigerated cheese tortellini
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- Optional: 3/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Sauté the sausage and onions in a skillet for 7-8 minutes until browned.
- Add garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Transfer the sausage mixture to your Crockpot, then add carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in tortellini, cream, and spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, feel free to mix in kale or bell peppers. Adjust the cooking time based on how finely you chop your carrots.