Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup Recipe
Introduction
Welcome to this delicious and comforting recipe for Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup! This hearty soup is perfect for those chilly autumn days when you crave a warm and satisfying meal. Packed with flavorful ingredients and cooked in a slow cooker, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a gathering, this creamy tortellini soup will surely be a hit. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort!
Ingredients
For this Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 can (8 ounces) of tomato sauce
– 1 teaspoon of dried basil
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 package (9 ounces) of refrigerated tortellini
– 2 cups of fresh baby spinach
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Steps
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup:
1. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into crumbles. Drain the excess fat.
2. Transfer the cooked sausage to your slow cooker.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato sauce.
5. Sprinkle in the dried basil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
6. Stir all the ingredients together.
7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.
8. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
9. Stir the cooked tortellini, fresh baby spinach, and heavy cream into the slow cooker.
10. Cover the slow cooker again and let the soup cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
11. Serve the Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Variations
Feel free to customize this Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Add diced carrots and celery for extra vegetables.
– Substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, ground turkey, or vegetarian sausage.
– Use a different type of tortellini, such as cheese-filled or spinach-filled.
– Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
– Top each serving with a dollop of pesto for added flavor.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup turns out perfectly:
– If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
– For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
– Don’t overcook the tortellini, as it may become mushy. Cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup is a fantastic recipe that combines the convenience of a slow cooker with the rich and comforting flavors of creamy tomato soup and cheesy tortellini. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day or to enjoy with loved ones during a cozy gathering. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and savor every spoonful!
FAQs
Can I freeze the Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for future enjoyment. However, keep in mind that the tortellini may become slightly softer after freezing and reheating. It’s best to undercook the tortellini slightly if you plan on freezing the soup.
Can I use frozen tortellini instead of refrigerated?
Absolutely! Frozen tortellini works well in this recipe too. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust accordingly.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth if you prefer a vegetarian version of this soup. The flavors will still be delicious!
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers, to enhance the nutritional value and taste of the soup.
Can I use dried tortellini instead of refrigerated or frozen?
It’s best to use refrigerated or frozen tortellini for this recipe, as dried tortellini may not hold up well during the longer cooking time in the slow cooker.
