I recently made this Crockpot Tortellini Soup for a cozy dinner, and I can’t stop raving about it. The combination of tender cheese tortellini, creamy tomato broth, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach is pure comfort in a bowl.
What I loved most was how effortless it was to prepare—I simply tossed most of the ingredients in the slow cooker and went about my day. By dinnertime, the house was filled with the incredible aroma of this hearty, flavorful soup. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your meal rotation.
Credit: thesaltymarshmallow
Ingredients for Crockpot Tortellini Soup
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this soul-warming soup. A quick note before we start: always choose high-quality ingredients for the best results.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
(For a spicy kick, use hot sausage; sweet or mild sausage works well if you prefer less heat.) - 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
(Pick a marinara sauce you already love because it’s the backbone of the broth’s flavor.) - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
(For bold, aromatic flavor.) - 2 teaspoons onion powder
(Adds depth to the soup without using fresh onions.) - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
(A fragrant blend of classic herbs like oregano and basil.) - ½ teaspoon salt
(Add more later if needed, depending on your broth’s saltiness.) - ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
(A subtle hint of heat.) - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
(Keeps the soup from being too salty; vegetable broth works as well.) - 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, cut into pieces
(For an ultra-creamy texture. Don’t use low-fat versions for the best results.) - 1 package (18 oz) refrigerated cheese tortellini
(Fresh tortellini saves time and cooks perfectly in the soup.) - 3 cups fresh spinach, tightly packed
(It cooks down significantly, so don’t skimp on the amount.)
Note: Serves 6-8 depending on portion size.
Variations
Make this recipe your own with these tasty alternatives and substitutions.
- Meatless Option: Skip the sausage and add diced carrots, celery, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use a plant-based cream cheese and dairy-free tortellini to keep it creamy without the dairy.
- Low-Carb Twist: Swap tortellini for spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets for fewer carbs.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or kale to make it even more nutrient-packed.
- Spicy Spin: Toss in red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
If you’re in the mood for something different, you might also enjoy this garlic parmesan roasted shrimp for a flavorful twist.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long you’ll need from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: About 8 hours
Equipment You Need
Having the right tools makes cooking even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Crockpot or Slow Cooker – The hero of this recipe for low-and-slow cooking.
- Large Skillet – For browning the sausage before adding it to the crockpot.
- Knife and Cutting Board – To chop the cream cheese into smaller pieces.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Perfect for mixing ingredients smoothly.
How to Make Crockpot Tortellini Soup?
This recipe is as easy as 1-2-3. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you relax.
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage
Start by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, and once fully browned, drain any excess grease. This step ensures the sausage is cooked and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
Transfer the cooked sausage into your crockpot. Add marinara sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Lastly, place the cream cheese pieces on top. Don’t stir the cream cheese yet; it will melt beautifully as the soup cooks.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Base
Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. During this time, the flavors meld, and the cream cheese softens into the broth, creating a creamy, rich base.
Step 4: Add the Tortellini
Stir the soup well to incorporate the melted cream cheese into the broth. Add the cheese tortellini and stir again. Cook on high for about 30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
Step 5: Stir in the Spinach
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach. Stir and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the spinach wilts down. Give the soup one last taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with garnishes like fresh basil leaves or a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese for extra flair.
Credit: thesaltymarshmallow
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
Based on my experience, here are a few tips to take this soup to the next level:
- Don’t skip browning the sausage. It adds a caramelized flavor you just won’t get if you throw it in raw.
- Cut the cream cheese into small cubes. It helps it melt more evenly in the crockpot.
- Use fresh tortellini for the best texture and taste. Avoid dried tortellini since they can turn mushy.
- Taste as you go. Adjust the salt and seasoning as needed, especially if your broth is salty.
- Layer garnishes carefully. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley add brightness to this rich soup.
How to Serve Crockpot Tortellini Soup?
Presentation matters just as much as taste! Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Garnish with a sprig of basil for a pop of green. Pair this hearty soup with crusty bread, garlic knots, or even a simple side salad to round out your meal. Serve it in large bowls for an informal, comforting touch that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. For a lighter option, you might enjoy this spinach artichoke chicken bake as a side dish.
Nutritional Information
This hearty soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Here’s a quick breakdown per serving:
- Calories: ~400
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~25g
Make Ahead and Storage
Need to plan ahead? This soup is a lifesaver when prepped in advance.
- Storage: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Tortellini may soften when frozen, so consider freezing the soup before adding the pasta. Reheat and add fresh tortellini before serving.
- Reheating: Warm leftovers in the microwave in 30-second increments or on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Stir gently to redistribute the ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This soup is a game-changer, and here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Easy to make. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.
- Customizable. You can tweak the recipe to suit different dietary needs or flavor preferences.
- Family-friendly. Even picky eaters will enjoy this cheesy, comforting soup.
- Perfect for meal prep. It stores well for leftovers, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Full of flavor. The combination of Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, and creamy broth is irresistible.
Crockpot Tortellini Soup is a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. It’s warm, filling, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl of pure comfort! If you enjoy hearty meals, you can also enjoy similar dinner ideas for inspiration.