Crockpot Tortellini Sausage (Printable Version)
A savory blend of sausage, tortellini, spinach, and tomatoes slow-cooked for rich flavor.
# Ingredients List:
→ Meat
01 -
16 ounces Italian sausage, casings removed
→ Vegetables
02 -
1/2 medium onion, chopped
03 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
04 -
2 medium carrots, sliced or chopped
05 -
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
06 -
2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed
→ Canned Goods
07 -
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
08 -
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
→ Liquids
09 -
4 cups chicken broth
10 -
3/4 cup heavy whipping cream (optional)
→ Pasta
11 -
2 packages (9 ounces each) refrigerated cheese tortellini
→ Seasonings
12 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 -
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and chopped onion. Cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking up the sausage, until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
02 -
Add carrots, celery, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes with juice, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. For a shorter cooking time of 3-4 hours, chop carrots finely; for longer cooking of 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high, chop carrots larger.
03 -
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
04 -
Approximately 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cheese tortellini, heavy cream (if using), and fresh spinach. Increase heat to high and cook until tortellini is tender, stirring occasionally.
05 -
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
# Extra Tips:
01 -
Use spicy Italian sausage for added heat if desired. Leftovers tend to absorb broth; add extra chicken broth or tortellini when reheating.
02 -
A 7-quart slow cooker is recommended as the soup becomes quite full once tortellini is added.