Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage Recipe

Introduction

Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is a flavorful, comforting dish that combines hearty sausage, tender tortellini, and a rich, savory broth. This easy-to-make soup is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a filling and delicious meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, as everything is cooked in one pot—the slow cooker—allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully while you go about your day.

The addition of sausage provides a savory, meaty depth of flavor, while the tortellini brings a soft, chewy texture to each spoonful. Paired with fresh vegetables, spices, and a hint of creaminess, this soup is both hearty and satisfying, making it ideal for cooler weather, family gatherings, or meal prep. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or taking it to a potluck, Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Effortless Cooking: With the convenience of the crockpot, you can simply toss in the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work, freeing up your time for other activities.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of sausage, tortellini, and vegetables makes this soup a filling meal that is perfect for satisfying hunger and warming up on a chilly day.
• Rich, Savory Flavor: The sausage infuses the broth with a savory, slightly spicy flavor, while the tortellini adds a comforting, chewy texture that makes each bite enjoyable.
• One-Pot Wonder: With minimal prep and just one pot to clean, this soup makes for an easy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste. You can swap out the sausage for ground turkey or add different vegetables to suit your preferences, making this soup versatile and adaptable to many dietary needs.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6 hours on low, 3 hours on high
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 3-5g

Ingredients

For the Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 package (9 oz) refrigerated or frozen cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 ½ cups fresh spinach, chopped (or kale, if preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh grated Parmesan cheese, for topping (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage doesn’t require specialized tools, a few key items will help ensure an easy cooking process and the best results:

1. Crockpot (Slow Cooker): The most essential tool for this recipe is your crockpot. It allows the ingredients to cook slowly, absorbing all the flavors while you go about your day.
2. Large Skillet: To brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic, a large skillet is perfect. This step adds more flavor to the soup and prevents the ingredients from being too greasy.
3. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is needed to chop the vegetables, particularly the onion, garlic, and spinach. A sharp knife will make the prep work faster and safer.
4. Measuring Spoons and Cups: Accurately measuring your spices and liquids ensures that the soup has balanced flavors. This will also help in avoiding over-seasoning.
5. Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon or spatula is ideal for stirring the soup ingredients and browning the sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Once done, drain off any excess fat and transfer the sausage to the crockpot.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the soup. Once done, transfer the onion and garlic to the crockpot with the sausage.

3. Add the Broth, Tomatoes, and Seasonings

To the crockpot, add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients. The broth and tomatoes form the base of the soup, while the seasonings help to infuse the soup with deep, savory flavor.

4. Cook the Soup

Set the crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours, or on high for 3 hours. This allows the flavors to develop and the sausage to infuse the broth. You can stir the soup halfway through cooking to ensure that the ingredients are well distributed.

5. Add the Tortellini and Cream

About 20 minutes before the soup is done, add the tortellini to the crockpot. Stir the soup to make sure the tortellini is submerged in the broth. Then, pour in the heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version). This adds richness to the soup and gives it a creamy texture that complements the sausage and vegetables.

6. Add the Spinach

In the final 10 minutes of cooking, add the fresh spinach (or kale) to the soup. Stir it in until it wilts down and blends into the soup. The spinach adds a nice pop of color and a nutritious boost to the dish.

7. Season to Taste

Once the soup is done cooking, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You can also remove the bay leaf at this stage.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors!

Tips for Perfect Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Use Fresh Tortellini: If you can, use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for the best texture. Frozen tortellini will work as well, but fresh pasta tends to absorb the flavors of the broth more effectively.
• Brown the Sausage for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the step of browning the sausage in the skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This adds caramelization and a deeper flavor to the soup base.
• Adjust the Creaminess: For a creamier soup, add more heavy cream to taste. If you prefer a lighter version, you can replace some or all of the heavy cream with milk or a non-dairy alternative like almond milk.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes to the soup. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce for an added kick.
• Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, to the soup for extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly in the slow cooker.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: To keep the soup from being too salty, opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. You can always adjust the seasoning later if needed.

Variations of Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

• Vegetarian Tortellini Soup: For a meatless version of this soup, swap out the sausage for a vegetarian sausage or omit it entirely and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or extra spinach. You can also add a plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas.
• Creamy Tomato Tortellini Soup: For a richer tomato flavor, add a can of tomato paste or a few tablespoons of tomato puree to the crockpot. You can also increase the amount of cream or add a dollop of sour cream when serving.
• Spicy Cajun Tortellini Soup: Give this soup a Cajun twist by adding a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and some sliced bell peppers. You can also top the soup with crumbled Cajun-style sausage for extra flavor.
• Chicken Tortellini Soup: Replace the sausage with chicken breast or thighs. Simply cook the chicken separately and shred it before adding it to the crockpot. Chicken will add a lighter, leaner protein option to the soup.

Storage and Shelf Life

Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is perfect for leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or heat the soup on the stove over low heat until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of extra broth or water as the soup may thicken after sitting in the fridge.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then heat on the stove until warm.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pair this delicious soup with a few complementary sides for a well-rounded meal:

• Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. The buttery, garlicky bread complements the rich broth and adds a satisfying crunch.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad with crisp lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and a tangy dressing pairs beautifully with the savory soup. The lightness of the salad contrasts well with the hearty soup.
• Crusty Rolls: Serve with soft, fluffy dinner rolls to soak up the delicious soup. You can warm them in the oven just before serving for a fresh, homemade touch.
• Roasted Vegetables: If you’re looking for a more substantial side dish, roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers make a great accompaniment. The sweetness of the roasted veggies complements the savory soup flavors.

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Conclusion

Crockpot Tortellini Soup with Sausage is the epitome of comfort food, offering a perfect balance of savory sausage, tender tortellini, and rich, flavorful broth. With minimal effort and the convenience of a slow cooker, this soup makes a satisfying meal that can easily be tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep for the week, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!