Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days or busy weeknights. It brings together hearty ingredients like Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh spinach, all simmered to perfection. This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare in your slow cooker, making it perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this dish stands out as a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into your Crockpot and let it do the work for you.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of sausage and tortellini creates a satisfying meal full of robust flavors.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily adapt this soup by adding different vegetables or using alternative proteins.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it reheats well and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love this creamy soup, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience in preparing this delightful soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Chopping Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The heart of this recipe; it allows for easy cooking while you focus on other tasks.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausage before adding it to enhance flavor.
• Chopping Board & Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, you’ll need the following 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)

For the Broth

• 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: Brown the Sausage and Onions

1. Add the sausage meat and onions to a skillet.
2. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until browned, breaking up the sausage with a spoon as it cooks.
3. If needed, spoon out some excess fat.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Transfer to Crockpot

1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Transfer the sausage mixture into your Crockpot.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot

1. Add the chopped carrots, celery, canned crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the Crockpot.
2. If you’re cooking on high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours, adjust carrot sizes accordingly.

Step 4: Final Touches Before Serving

1. About 30 minutes prior to serving time, add cheese tortellini, cream if using, and fresh spinach to the Crockpot.
2. Set heat to high and stir occasionally.
3. Season with salt & pepper as desired before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

This Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is not only delicious but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Enjoy with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Slice a fresh baguette and serve it warm for dipping.
• Garlic Breadsticks – Pair the soup with buttery garlic breadsticks for a flavorful combo.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic choice with crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons.
• Spinach Salad – Toss fresh spinach with nuts, cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.

Toppings to Consider

• Parmesan Cheese – Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup for added flavor.
• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of freshness.

How to Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Creating the perfect Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage requires a few simple techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose Quality Sausage – Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for richer flavor.
• Sauté Vegetables First – Sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the Crockpot to enhance their flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving; flavors develop during cooking.
• Use Fresh Spinach – Add fresh spinach right before serving to keep its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pairing your Crockpot tortellini soup with the right side dishes can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some excellent choices.

1. Garlic Bread – A perfect complement that soaks up the delicious broth.
2. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing pairing.
3. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil offers a tasty appetizer.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and nutrition to your meal.
5. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits infused with cheese are great for dipping into the soup.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage, small missteps can lead to a less-than-ideal dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the sautéing step: Failing to brown the sausage and onions first can result in a bland soup. Take time to sauté them for better flavor.
• Incorrect vegetable sizes: Cutting carrots too large can lead to undercooked vegetables. Chop them finely if cooking on high for shorter times.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: Adding too many ingredients can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Sometimes, flavors need tweaking. Always taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
• Ignoring cream addition timing: Adding cream too early may cause it to curdle. Incorporate it about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage that might help enhance your cooking experience.

Can I use chicken instead of sausage in the Crockpot Tortellini Soup?

You can definitely substitute chicken for sausage! Use cooked shredded chicken for added convenience.

How long does it take to cook Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage?

The soup cooks for about 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Adjust cooking times based on your schedule.

What if I can’t find cheese tortellini?

If cheese tortellini is unavailable, consider using other types of tortellini or pasta that you enjoy!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

Crockpot tortellini soup with sausage is a deliciously comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Its ease of preparation makes it a go-to option, while its flavor offers endless possibilities for customization. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to tailor it to your taste!