The aroma of Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup wafts through the air, a warm embrace of savory goodness that feels like a hug from your grandma on a chilly day. Imagine tender sausage mingling with pillowy tortellini, all swimming in a rich, hearty broth that’s practically begging to be slurped up with a big spoon. This soup is not just food; it’s an experience—one that dances on your taste buds and makes even the dreariest day feel brighter.
Picture this: it’s one of those days where you barely have the energy to function—let alone whip up an elaborate meal. But fear not! With this Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup, you can toss ingredients into your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you binge-watch your favorite show or engage in some serious couch-potatoing. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings with friends, or even just a solo night in when you need some comfort food therapy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it great for busy weeknights.
- The savory flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, providing an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner.
- The colorful tortellini adds visual appeal, turning a simple soup into an eye-catching centerpiece.
- It’s versatile enough for customization; feel free to add extra veggies or switch up the protein based on what you have at home.
Ingredients for Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Italian Sausage: Choose between spicy or mild based on your heat preference; either works great for flavor.
- Tortellini: Fresh or frozen tortellini both work well; opt for cheese-filled for a creamy texture.
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness; it serves as the soup’s flavorful base.
- Canned Diced Tomatoes: These add acidity and brightness; try using fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra smoky flavor.
- Fresh Spinach: Tossing in fresh spinach at the end adds color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; avoid pre-minced varieties if possible for best taste.
- Onion: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth; yellow onions are generally best in soups.
- Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness and helps to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the pot.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and brown the Italian sausage until it’s nicely cooked through. Use a spatula to break it into bite-sized pieces; this helps distribute that glorious flavor throughout your soup.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, toss in chopped onions and minced garlic into the same skillet. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant—about five minutes should do it. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Crockpot
Transfer the cooked sausage mixture into your slow cooker. Add canned diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, and any herbs you enjoy (like Italian seasoning!) at this point.
Step 4: Cook It Low and Slow
Set your crockpot on low for about six hours or high for three hours. The longer it simmers, the better those flavors meld together into pure bliss.
Step 5: Add Tortellini
About ten minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini. This allows them to cook perfectly without turning mushy.
Step 6: Stir In Spinach
Just before serving, add fresh spinach to wilt down into that warm embrace of broth. Give everything a gentle stir and let sit uncovered for another few minutes.
Serving suggestion: Ladle generous portions into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese for added creaminess!
Now you’ve got yourself an Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup that’s as comforting as your favorite blanket! Perfectly paired with crusty bread or served solo—it’s sure to become a family favorite faster than you can say “pass me another bowl.” Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup is not just a delightful dish; it’s a hug in a bowl.
- Perfect for busy days, it combines hearty sausage with tender tortellini, creating a meal that warms the soul and makes you feel like a kitchen hero.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the sausage in your crockpot to enhance its flavor. Once that’s done, toss in the tortellini along with your broth and veggies. Let it simmer low and slow while you kick back and relax.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what’s lurking in your fridge. Try adding spinach for color or switch to chicken sausage for a lighter option. The magic of this soup lies in your creativity!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When it’s time to reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or microwave until it’s nice and hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always brown the sausage first to elevate the flavor of the soup.
- Avoid overcooking the tortellini; they should be perfectly tender but not mushy.
- Using homemade broth can take this easy dish from good to great!
Sometimes, I whip up this Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup when friends come over. Their smiles and satisfied slurps are my favorite feedback—it’s like culinary applause!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup?
To make Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup, you will need Italian sausage, cheese tortellini, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, onion, garlic, and spinach. You can also add carrots and bell peppers for extra flavor. Season it with Italian herbs like basil and oregano for a more robust taste. This combination creates a hearty soup that is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare in your crockpot.
How long does it take to cook Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup?
Cooking Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup takes about 4 to 6 hours on low heat or 2 to 3 hours on high heat. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring that the sausage is tender. After the initial cooking time, add the tortellini and let them cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until they are soft. This makes it a perfect dish for a busy day.
Can I freeze Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup. However, it’s best to keep the tortellini separate if you plan to freeze it. Cooked pasta can become mushy after thawing. Store the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
What can I serve with Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup?
Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup pairs well with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. A fresh side salad adds a nice balance to this hearty meal. You might also consider serving it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. These sides complement the soup perfectly while making your meal more satisfying.
Conclusion for Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup :
In summary, Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup is a delightful dish that combines savory sausage and tender tortellini in a rich broth. With minimal preparation time and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Remember to customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices to suit your taste. Enjoy this comforting soup as a main course alongside some crusty bread for a complete meal!
Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
- Total Time: 25 minute
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Easy Crockpot Sausage & Tortellini Soup, where flavorful sausage and tender tortellini come together in a rich broth for the ultimate cozy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
- 2 cups cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked. Break into bite-sized pieces as it cooks.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about five minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the sausage mixture to your slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), chicken broth, and any herbs you prefer such as Italian seasoning.
- Cook It Low and Slow: Set your crockpot on low for about six hours or high for three hours to allow flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Tortellini: About ten minutes before serving, stir in the tortellini to cook them without becoming mushy.
- Stir In Spinach: Just before serving, add fresh spinach to wilt into the broth, stirring gently.
- Serving Suggestion: Ladle into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups, or 360g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding extra vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. For lighter options, consider using chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage.
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