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Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. Use a spoon to break it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease and transfer the sausage to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
- Add the diced onion, garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Tortellini and Spinach
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini and spinach. Cover and cook on high for another 20–30 minutes, or until the tortellini is tender.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Parmesan
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the soup warm through for a few minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips for the Best Tortellini Soup
- Choose the Right Tortellini: Fresh tortellini cooks faster than frozen, so adjust the timing accordingly.
- Make It Your Own: Swap sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Veggie Boost: Add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch with the cream before adding it to the soup.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more spinach or kale for a veggie-packed version.
- Spicy Twist: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Add shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar just before serving for a cheesier flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortellini to make this dish gluten-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dish Pairings: Serve with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Toppings: Top each bowl with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, or a drizzle of olive oil for added flair.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to thin it out if needed.
- Freeze: Freeze the soup before adding tortellini and cream to avoid changes in texture. When ready to eat, thaw, reheat, and add the tortellini and cream just before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup combines hearty ingredients and bold flavors into a single, easy-to-make dish. The slow cooking process develops deep flavors while keeping the preparation minimal. Plus, the addition of tortellini and cream turns it into a meal that’s comforting, filling, and oh-so-satisfying.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a cozy, flavorful soup that’s as simple to make as it is delicious, this Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup is a must-try. Perfect for family dinners, casual entertaining, or meal prepping, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Grab your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a bowl of creamy, cheesy perfection!
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